If you’re facing a recent DUI charge, you don’t have to handle it alone. A lawyer from our firm can represent you and fight for a dismissal, a reduced charge, or reduced penalties.
A DUI conviction can be very serious, possibly resulting in jail time. You shouldn’t have to stand against these penalties without legal representation, a service we are equipped to provide. We can build your case and, if necessary, fight in front of a judge for your freedom. During a consultation, we’ll tell you all about working alongside your St. Cloud criminal DUI lawyer.
What Happens if I’m Convicted of a DUI in Florida?
In Florida, if someone is convicted of driving under the influence (DUI), the conviction could be treated as a misdemeanor or a felony. The penalties for a felony conviction are typically much more severe.
The circumstances matter. A judge will consider whether you have been convicted before, whether there was property damage, and whether someone else was hurt. The consequences can vary too, from a fine of several hundred dollars to a jail sentence of several years. There may be additional consequences, such as a revocation of your license.
Penalties for a Misdemeanor DUI in Florida
Here are some of the potential penalties for a DUI conviction, per the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) Department:
- Between $500 and $1,000 in fines and imprisonment of up to 6 months for a first conviction
- Between $1,000 and $2,000 in fines and imprisonment of up to 12 months for a second conviction
- Between $4,000 and upwards of $5,000 in fines and possible mandatory imprisonment for a third conviction
- More than $2,000 in fines and imprisonment of up to 5 years for a fourth or subsequent conviction
Aggravating circumstances such as excessive blood alcohol concentration or a minor in the vehicle can increase these penalties.
To consult with an experienced dui lawyer serving St. Cloud
855-780-9986
What Should I Expect From a St. Cloud Criminal DUI Lawyer?
If you hire a criminal DUI lawyer from our firm, you can expect your lawyer to protect you from violations of your rights, build your case, and argue against the opposition in court and for reduced consequences or a reduced charge where applicable. Your lawyer will handle every aspect of your legal case, including the provision of:
Legal Protection
Today, the authorities or even the prosecution may be able to contact you about your incident. If you speak with them yourself, you may accidentally incriminate yourself. If you hire a lawyer from our firm and let us speak with other parties on your behalf, your lawyer will represent you without incriminating you.
We can also make sure your rights weren’t violated during your arrest, confinement, or trial. We will stand up against the infringement of your rights and fight for fair treatment.
A Case in Your Favor
The foundation of your case will be evidence, such as footage from a traffic camera or the arresting officer’s body cam, the contents of your vehicle, and/or the results of your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) test. There could be other evidence to support your case. Your lawyer will collect as much evidence as possible.
With the evidence, your lawyer will be able to construct a defense for you. One defense may be more effective than another, or multiple defenses could work in your favor. A potential defense could be:
- Lack of probable cause, such as if there weren’t reasonable grounds for your arrest
- Failure to inform, such as if you weren’t told about the consequences of refusing a breathalyzer test
- Insufficient evidence, such as if there was a lack of evidence that you had been drinking
- Illegally obtained evidence, such as a statement you made while under arrest and without being read your Miranda rights
- Inaccurate alcohol test results, such as if the results are off because the test was performed improperly
- Unreliable field sobriety testing, such as if your testing wasn’t done according to protocol
A Counterargument
Your lawyer may also be able to find flaws with the opposition’s case during trial. For instance, your lawyer could find flaws in the opposition’s evidence if a witness’s account of the incident is foggy. In such a case, we will bring these flaws in their argument to light.
An Argument for Leniency, if Necessary
Your lawyer can make appeals and even plea deals to benefit you. Some examples could be:
- Appealing to have the DUI charge expunged (hidden) from your record if the record is otherwise clean
- Appealing for certain driving privileges if you lose your driver’s license
- Appealing for a low bail amount if you face jail time
- Pleading guilty to a more minor charge in exchange for lighter penalties
About Our St. Cloud Criminal DUI Attorneys
Our attorneys know how to represent you. They’ve handled cases like yours before, so they have the knowledge and resources available to represent you. We have over 40 years of experience, including in criminal defense law and DUI cases.
Our firm treats our clients like family, so you can expect your attorney to be invested in your case and to fight hard for an acquittal, reduced charges, or reduced penalties. We can tell you more about what to expect during a consultation.
St. Cloud DUI Lawyer Near Me
855-780-9986
Contact Us for Your Criminal DUI Attorney in St. Cloud, Florida
If you’re facing a recent DUI charge, let us represent you. Your lawyer will argue for the best possible outcome in your case. Even if you think your situation is serious, we can help.
During a consultation, we’ll go over your situation with you and offer our counsel. Afterwards, if you decide to hire one of our criminal DUI lawyers in St. Cloud, your lawyer will get to work on your second chance at a better future. To consult with us today, contact us at Bogin, Munns & Munns.
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