Florida DUI Penalties
If you have been charged with a DUI in Fort Walton Beach, Crestview, Niceville, Destin, Navarre, or anywhere in Okaloosa and Santa Rosa County, Florida, you are facing severe penalties. That is why it is crucial that you contact me, a Fort Walton Beach DUI defense attorney to get the aggressive and skilled representation you will need.
DUI penalties in Florida have evolved as legislators respond to initiatives to crack down on drunk driving. Additionally, judges have a certain amount of discretion when sentencing people convicted for DUI. In general, however, the following penalties attach to DUI convictions:
- First-time conviction: a fine not less than $500 or more than $1,000; jail time not more than 6 month; license revocation between 180 days and a year. Additionally, 50 hours of community service is mandatory or a $10 fine for each hour of community service required.For a blood alcohol level (BAL) of .15 or higher or with a minor in the car, fines increase to between $1,000 and $2,000; jail increases to not more than 9 months.
- Second-time DUI conviction within 5 years of the first: a fine between $1,000 and $2,000; jail time up to 9 months; license suspension at least 5 years if convicted within 5 years of an earlier DUI conviction. For BAL .15 or higher or with a minor in the car, fines increase to between $2,000 and $4,000; jail increases to not more than 12 months.If second DUI conviction is within 5 years of first, imprisonment for at least 10 days is mandatory.
- Third-time conviction not more than 10 years after first DUI: a fine between $2,000 and $5,000; a mandatory jail sentence of at least 30 days; a minimum 10-year license revocation. If BAL is .15 or higher or with a minor in the car, fines are at least $4,000.
Ignition Interlock Device
Second and third-time offenders are required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in order to drive on a DUI hardship or probationary license. In some cases, a first time DUI offender may be required to install one as well. An IID functions like a breathalyzer in measuring BAL. You are required to blow into the IID before you start your car and intermittently while you are driving.
If your BAL is in excess of .02%, your car will not start or will cease operating. You must pay $70 for the installation of the IID and the cost varies, but typically runs about $75.00 a month.
The SCRAM Program
The SCRAM (Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitor) device attaches to a defendant’s ankle like an ankle monitor. It must remain in contact with the skin in order to function. The SCRAM device measures BAL by monitoring alcohol content from the body’s perspiration. SCRAM readings are transmitted to a central monitoring location.
If BAL is measured above the accepted level, the authorities will be notified and you will be arrested. The cost varies but typically runs about $15 a day. The SCRAM program is not voluntary but ordered at the discretion of the judge or request of the prosecutor.
Consult with a Fort Walton Beach DUI Defense Attorney about Your Case.
Our firm has helped countless clients negotiate the DUI process and avoid steep penalties and lengthy jail sentences. While each case is different, I may be able to reduce the charges or sentence against you. To schedule a free consultation to discuss your case, contact me as soon as possible.
