Ponte Vedra Beach 2nd DUI Lawyer

Ponte Vedra Beach 2nd DUI Attorney

A DUI is a serious allegation that can lead to life-changing consequences. A 2nd DUI will only bring on more consequences and penalties. If you have been charged with a 2nd DUI offense, you need the help of a Ponte Vedra Beach DUI lawyer. A lawyer can review your case, explain the potential consequences you are facing, and prepare an appropriate legal defense for you. Trying to handle this situation without a lawyer’s help is a recipe for failure.

Potential Consequences of a 2nd DUI

Florida state laws outline the potential punishments one could face if convicted of a second DUI within a five-year period. Punishments could include:

• Fines: For a second offense, you could be obligated to pay up to $2,000 in court fines. Fines could reach up to $4,000 if the blood alcohol level is too high or if a passenger under 18 years old was in the vehicle. Fines could reach up to $5,000 if another party suffered a bodily injury.
• Imprisonment: You could be ordered to serve ten days in prison with the potential to serve up to one full year in prison. If convicted of DUI manslaughter, that can carry a prison sentence of four years.
• License Revocation: Your driver’s license could be revoked by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles for a minimum of five years. You could apply for a hardship reinstatement after one year.
• Probation and education: The court could order you to serve probation for up to one year. You could also be required to complete substance abuse education courses conducted under a licensed DUI program. This could also include a psychosocial evaluation.
• Breath ignition interlock device: There is a one-year mandatory period for having a breath ignition interlock device installed on your vehicle.
• Vehicle impoundment: Your car could be impounded or immobilized for at least thirty days. This thirty-day period does not overlap with any time spent in prison for the offense.

What to Do If Charged With a 2nd DUI

If you are in this situation, you should act quickly. Contact an experienced 2nd DUI attorney for help. Avoid discussing the case with anybody other than your attorney. Anything you say can and will likely be used against you in your case. Everything you say to your attorney is protected under privilege. Lean on your attorney as your trusted legal advisor.

FAQs About Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 2nd DUI Law

How Much Does a 2nd DUI Cost in Florida?

A 2nd DUI in Florida can place a substantial financial burden on you if convicted. It can lead to a fine ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 and up to nine months of prison. There are many other hidden costs to consider as well, such as potential medical bills and expenses, lost wages, possible vehicle repairs, public transportation costs due to lost driving privileges, increased insurance premiums, and other court costs. You should consult with a lawyer for more details.

How Can a DUI Lawyer Help Me?

A DUI lawyer can help you in several ways. Among the many services a lawyer can provide, they can review your case, gather evidence, negotiate on your behalf, and prepare for trial. DUI cases can be complex, and the consequences can be severe. A lawyer can be a trusted resource that provides tailored legal advice suited for you. Having an experienced lawyer on your side increases your chances of successfully navigating the court system, appealing the DUI, or reducing the penalties.

What Is the Cost for a DUI Attorney in Florida?

The cost of a DUI lawyer can vary from case to case, depending on the circumstance. Usually, the complexity of the case, the seriousness of the offenses, and the location and experience level of the lawyer will be factored into the total cost. Most lawyers will charge a flat fee for their services, but some could charge an hourly fee. Your DUI attorney will discuss their fee schedule with you during your initial consultation.

Is a 2nd DUI a Felony or Misdemeanor in Florida?

A 2nd DUI is a misdemeanor in Florida under most circumstances. However, there are circumstances that elevate it to a third-degree felony. If you were involved in an accident that caused bodily injury to another party, it could be a felony. A DUI in a fatal car accident could lead to a DUI manslaughter conviction, which is a second-degree felony. Other factors that could affect the offense classification are the blood alcohol level and how recent it is from your first DUI.

Will I Be Required to Have an Interlock Device?

You could be required to have an interlock device installed on your vehicle if you are convicted of a 2nd DUI in Florida. An ignition interlock device is a breathalyzer that is installed on a vehicle. It requires drivers to blow into the mouthpiece before the vehicle starts. For many 2nd time DUI cases in Florida, an interlock device will be ordered. A lawyer can help determine if this outcome is likely in your case and help you prepare for it.

A Legal Team That Can Help

We all make mistakes and unfortunately a DUI conviction comes with serious and sometimes life-changing consequences. A 2nd DUI can make matters even worse. Having this go on your driving record could affect your ability to gain employment, obtain housing, and retain driving privileges. You should engage the help of a qualified attorney with experience helping clients with DUI cases.

At Kevin A. Raudt, P.A., our legal team is ready and able to assist you with your DUI case. Our experienced legal team has the knowledge and acumen necessary to make a difference in your case. We have helped countless Florida residents with their legal cases. We understand the pains and struggles of trying to navigate the Florida state courts. With our team on your side, you can rest assured you are getting the quality representation you deserve. Contact us at our office today.