Florida’s minimum penalty laws for a first conviction of driving under the influence (DUI) include 180 days of license revocation and a $500 fine. This changes under certain circumstances, however, such as when the driver caused an accident that injured someone. Hiring a DUI defense attorney in Jupiter, FL can be important in the effort to achieve the most lenient outcome in court.
The Goal
Sometimes a first-time charge of DUI can be reduced through a plea bargain with the prosecuting attorney. The reduced charge is categorized as reckless driving and is legally known as wet reckless. This is not an option for someone who has injured another person in a collision. Instead, a DUI defense attorney in Jupiter, FL works to convince the judge to impose only the minimum penalties allowed by law.
Maximum Incarceration Time
A DUI involving a non-serious injury to another individual is a first-degree misdemeanor. A judge could issue a one-year incarceration sentence for this conviction. Even if the person is allowed the privilege of work release, imprisonment can be a major disruption to his or her life. Some workers, such as those whose occupation requires driving, lose their jobs in this situation. Divorced parents may face losing child custody.
Maximum License Revocation Time
Even if a lesser or no jail sentence is imposed, a judge can order a one-year license revocation. This is a hardship for many individuals who rely on driving for work and other responsibilities.
Information about the Law Office of Laura E. Kenney is provided at laurakenneylaw.com.
