Experts generally agree that the first time DUI offender is not usually a threat to society. They generally agree that second time offenders more likely are a threat to society and are likely to repeat.

Jurisdictions throughout Florida are enacting programs intended to discourage repeat offenders. The benefit to the offender are huge. In some cases the offense can be reduced to reckless driving. In some cases the offense can be sealed. If you have been arrested for a DUI, it is in your best interest to discuss your situation with a criminal defense attorney to determine if you might be eligible for one of these programs.

Generally you are not eligible for these programs if you:

Provided a breath test above a .20 blood alcohol content;
Caused an injury or property damage in connection with your DUI;
Have a prior conviction for reckless driving, DUI, or vehicular homicide;
Were found guilty of a driving while license suspended/cancelled prior;
Have been convicted of a felony from within the past five years; and/or
Other disqualifying circumstances depending on a variety of factors.

Alexander Truluck focuses his practice as a criminal defense attorney in Clearwater, Palm Harbor, Largo, Dunedin and the Tampa Bay area.

For more information, visit our website at http://www.criminallawyerclearwaterflorida.com
or call (727) 799-3550.

Smaller crimes are called “misdemeanors”. These are the less serious crimes. However, all crimes have consequences. Our job as a criminal defense attorney is to reduce or minimize those consequences. Of course, we will always try for a dismissal of the charges. If this is not possible, we will try to get the fines and possible jail terms reduced.

One example of a misdemeanor is a DUI. Have you ever taken a serious look at the consequences of a DUI. They are anything but minor. If you aren’t aware of those consequences, take a look at our previous blogs on that subject. A DUI conviction can be a life altering event from which it may be a long time until you recover.

Examples of misdemeanor crimes are:

Shoplifting.
Trespassing.
DUI.
Solicitation for prostitution.
Disorderly conduct.
Reckless driving.
Criminal mischief.
Simple battery.
Underage possession of alcohol.

Some consequences of Florida misdemeanors include:

A misdemeanor goes on your permanent criminal record. That can impact future opportunities in employment, housing, education and even relationships. Unless it is sealed or expunged (which can only be done under a slim set of circumstances), it will be forever visible for anyone to look up.

Jail time for a misdemeanor is a possibility. You could spend months in county jail for seemingly minor offenses. For example, trespassing when there is someone else present in the car or building is a first-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail. Are you likely to serve that much time? It depends on numerous factors, such as your prior criminal record and the circumstances of the event, but when you’re facing the possibility of up to 12 months in jail, it’s best not to leave that to chance if you can help it.

Fines can be significant. Why would you want to face those huge fines if there is a way to get them reduced. By all means, you should have a consultation to find our what your choices are.

If you have been arrested for a misdemeanor, we can help. Alexander Truluck focuses his practice as a criminal defense attorney in Clearwater, Palm Harbor, Largo, Dunedin and the Tampa Bay area.

For more information, visit our website at http://www.criminallawyerclearwaterflorida.com
or call (727) 799-3550.