When people drive in Florida, they agree to follow all the traffic laws. If they do not do so, then they could receive tickets, pay fines, and, for some violations, spend time in jail. One of these laws, of course, disallows individuals from driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If an individual is charged with DUI and are ultimately convicted, then they could face the consequences mentioned above, including mandatory jail time depending on the circumstances and whether they have any prior DUIs.
Those are just some of the penalties associated with a DUI, though. Driving is considered a privilege, and that privilege can be taken away for periods of time for those convicted of DUIs. Similar to the progression seen in criminal penalties, these suspensions are longer the more DUIs a person has on their record.
For a first time DUI without injury, an individual will lose their license for a minimum of six months, but it could be up to a year. If bodily harm results from driving under the influence, then the license revocation could last for three years. If a person has a second DUI within five years of the first, then their license will be revoked for five years. If they have a third within 10 years of the second, then their license will be revoked for 10 years. For a fourth DUI conviction, regardless of when it occurs, permanent revocation is possible.
These revocation periods will only be realized, though, if the driver is actually convicted. Like any crime, there are potential defenses available and people are not automatically guilty simply because they are charged with a DUI.
Every year many individuals in Florida are charged with DUIs. If they are convicted, then they face the very real possibility of serious consequences, including potentially losing their driver’s license for a lengthy period of time. However, accused individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Defenses may be available to these individuals, starting with whether the police had a valid reason to stop the driver in the first place. Experienced attorneys understand the laws and rules police must follow during these situations, which is why consulting with one could be very beneficial.