When you’re charged with a DUI, it can feel like you’re in a dark tunnel – even in the Sunshine state. Florida DUI laws are some of the toughest in our nation – all the more reason to hire a skilled DUI defense attorney to defend your case. We know that your recent DUI charge is a complicated and trying time in your life. By providing the information below, we hope this makes things a little easier during this difficult time.
What is Florida’s BAC Limit? BAC stands for blood alcohol content. Determined through chemical testing (either blood, breath or urine), Florida’s BAC limit is .08%. If you drive at this level, you’re considered Driving Under the Influence. Drivers with a BAC of .20% or more will face even harsher penalties. Police can administer the breath test, but blood and urine tests can only be given by qualified medical professionals. While you can refuse to take the chemical test, you must know that there are strict penalties for refusal.
What Penalties Am I Facing?
Following a DUI conviction in the state of Florida, your license can be suspended for 180 days to 5 years. Your fine will range from $250 to $2000 and the judge may order you to community service for a specified number of hours. You may have to take alcohol education courses. Jail time is also a possibility ranging from 2 days to 2 years, depending on the severity of your case.
Separate from your criminal case if your administrative license suspension. If you failed a chemical test, your license will be suspended for 6 months. If you refused to take the chemical test, your license is automatically suspended for 1 year.
Learning about Field Sobriety Tests
Used by police officers, these tests try to determine if you are drinking and driving. The three most popular are the HGN (horizontal gaze nystagmus), the One Leg Stand and the Walk and Turn. The HGN tests for involuntary eye jerking while the latter check for conditions like loss of balance or inability to follow instruction. These “symptoms” are often associated with alcohol consumption.
Ignition Interlock
In addition to the other penalties, the judge may order this installed in your vehicle at your expense. With this device, you can’t start your car until you breathe into the machine without alcohol on your breath.
On the fence about hiring a DUI lawyer? Depending on the severity of your case, this could be the best decision you’ll ever make. The right DUI defense attorney can have your penalties reduced or dismissed altogether!