Clermont Felony DUI Attorney
Helping Clermont Residents Facing Felony DUI Charges
If you or a loved one has been charged with a felony DUI in Clermont, FL, you are facing serious legal consequences that could impact your future for years to come. At The Law Offices of Justin Rickman, we understand the complexities of Florida DUI laws and offer aggressive, strategic defense for clients facing felony-level DUI charges. A felony DUI isn’t just a traffic offense — it’s a criminal charge that can result in significant prison time, long-term license suspension, and a permanent criminal record. Our experienced Clermont felony DUI lawyer is here to guide you through the legal process, fight for your rights, and work toward the best possible outcome.
Call (888) 835-5840 or contact us online today to schedule a confidential consultation with our dedicated Clermont felony DUI attorneys.
What is a Felony DUI?
In Florida, most first and second DUI offenses are charged as misdemeanors. However, under certain circumstances, a DUI can escalate to a felony charge. A felony DUI typically involves repeat offenses, serious bodily injury, death, or driving with a revoked license due to previous DUI convictions.
Key situations that can lead to a felony DUI charge in Florida include:
- Third DUI offense within 10 years
- Fourth or subsequent DUI, regardless of time frame
- DUI resulting in serious bodily injury (SBI)
- DUI manslaughter (death caused by DUI-related accident)
- Driving under the influence with a minor in the vehicle under aggravating circumstances
Penalties for Felony DUI
Felony DUI convictions in Florida come with severe and life-changing consequences. The severity of the penalties depends on the degree of the felony and any aggravating factors present.
Third-Degree Felony DUI (Up to 5 Years in Prison)
- $2,000 – $5,000 in fines
- Up to 5 years in prison
- Minimum 10-year license revocation
- Mandatory ignition interlock device
- DUI school and possible rehabilitation
Second-Degree Felony DUI (Up to 15 Years in Prison)
- Typically applies in DUI manslaughter cases
- Up to $10,000 in fines
- Mandatory prison sentence
- Permanent license revocation possible
First-Degree Felony DUI (Up to 30 Years in Prison)
- Applies if the driver leaves the scene of a fatal DUI crash
- Extremely rare but extremely serious
- Long-term incarceration and permanent record implications
In addition to these criminal penalties, a felony DUI can affect your ability to find employment, maintain professional licenses, obtain housing, and more.
Felony DUI FAQs
What should I do after being arrested for a felony DUI in Clermont?
First, remain calm and avoid making statements to police. Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately. An experienced Clermont felony DUI lawyer can help protect your rights and begin building your defense strategy right away.
Can a felony DUI be reduced to a misdemeanor?
In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate a plea deal or demonstrate that there were issues with the arrest (such as faulty breathalyzer results or lack of probable cause). Your attorney will review every detail to explore opportunities for charge reduction or dismissal.
Will I go to prison for a felony DUI in Florida?
Not every felony DUI results in a prison sentence, especially for first-time felony charges. However, prison time is common, particularly for repeat offenses or DUI involving injury or death. Having the right lawyer can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
How long will a felony DUI stay on my record?
A felony DUI conviction will remain on your criminal record permanently in Florida. It cannot be sealed or expunged. This is why fighting the charge from the start is so important.
What defenses are available in a felony DUI case?
Common defenses include:
- Challenging the validity of the traffic stop
- Disputing BAC or drug test results
- Arguing lack of impairment
- Demonstrating procedural errors by law enforcement
- Proving that injuries or damages were not caused by DUI
Speak to a Clermont Felony DUI Lawyer Today
Felony DUI charges are serious, but with experienced legal representation, you don’t have to face them alone. At The Law Offices of Justin Rickman, we bring years of DUI defense experience to every case, offering personalized strategies aimed at minimizing the impact on your life and future.
Contact us today at (888) 835-5840 to begin.
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