There are some real advantages in having a DUI attorney represent you. Your attorney may be able to get your sentence reduced or dismissed. You attorney may be able to question the legitimacy of the evidence against you, such as your blood alcohol test. Experience in negotiating may allow your attorney to get the charges reduced.
Here are some of the consequences you may face if convicted:
- Fines. Offenders face a minimum fine of $500 and up to $2,000 depending on whether there were aggravating factors. If drivers are unable to pay the fines, the court may grant $10 credit per hour for performing community service.
- Inability to use your vehicle. The court must impose a mandatory immobilization period of ten days on your car that cannot coincide with a jail term. The court might grant an exception if a family member needs the vehicle for work and has no other means of transportation.
- DUI school. The judge is required to impose completion of either Level I or Level II DUI School, depending on the severity of the offense.
- Lost driving privileges. Your Florida driver’s license will be suspended for a minimum of six months and a maximum of one year. However, a driver may apply for a hardship reinstatement (restricting travel to work or business) once DUI school is complete.
- Probation. A judge may order up to 12 months of probation or a combination of jail time and probation that adds up to 12 months.
- Community service. A first-time DUI requires a mandatory minimum of 50 hours of community service.
- Ignition interlock device. Ignition interlock devices must be installed and used for a minimum of six months in cases with aggravating circumstances, such as a blood alcohol content (BAC) reading of .15 or higher.
- Increased car insurance. A DUI conviction can raise car insurance rates by 50% or more for the next several years.
If you have been arrested for DUI, you should have a consultation with Alex Truluck as soon as possible. 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.