DUI Penalties in Gainesville

Gainesville DUI Defense Attorney

Prosecutors treat DUI cases in Florida very seriously, and the penalties levied in the event of a conviction can be steep.  The penalties become more serious with each subsequent DUI infraction, and they include:

• First offense - Fines from $250 to $500.  If the person's blood alcohol level (BAC) is higher than 2.0%, or a minor is in the car at the time of arrest, the fines increase from $500 to $1000.  License suspension of 180 days to 1 year, vehicle impound (unless the defendant's family has no other mode of transportation), 1 year maximum probation, and 50 hours of mandatory community service.  Jail time may be involved but will not exceed 6 months, unless the person's BAC is above 2.0% or a minor is in the vehicle, in which case the jail time may not exceed 9 months.
• Second offense or higher - Fine's from $500 to $1000, unless the person's BAC is 2.0% or above or a minor is in the vehicle, at which point the fine amount increases from $1000 to $2000.  License suspension of 180 days to 1 year (or a minimum 5-year revocation if the second offense takes place within five years of the first).  Vehicle impound, mandatory DUI School, probation for 1 year, and community service in lieu of fines if the defendant is unable to pay.  Jail time must not exceed 9 months, unless the individual's second offense comes within five years of their first, in which case jail time shall not exceed 12 months.

If you have been charged with DUI, you are strongly advised to contact a Gainesville DUI defense attorney right away, as you may be facing serious penalties.

Are you in need of legal help in your DUI case?

The Law Firm of Kinsell, Zadel & Whitaker can provide you with professional legal service in the event that you have been arrested for DUI.  Our attorney team is well versed in Florida DUI law, and we approach every case we represent with the intention of serving our client's best interests.  Contact our firm today, and we will work tirelessly to improve your chances of an advantageous outcome to your case.

If you have been charged with DUI in Gainesville, you are potentially facing very serious penalties.  Contact a Gainesville DUI Defense Attorney for assistance in your case today.