Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Broward County and throughout Florida. Whether it’s your first offense or a repeat violation, a DUI conviction can lead to severe legal, financial, and personal consequences. Understanding the penalties you may face can help you take the right steps in your defense.
1. First-Time DUI Offense
If you are convicted of a first DUI offense in Broward County, you may face:
- Fines: $500 to $1,000 (up to $2,000 if BAC is 0.15% or higher or if a minor was in the vehicle).
- Jail Time: Up to 6 months (up to 9 months if BAC is 0.15% or higher).
- License Suspension: 6 to 12 months.
- Probation: Up to 1 year.
- DUI School: Mandatory attendance.
- Vehicle Impoundment: 10 days.
2. Second DUI Offense
If you are convicted of a second DUI offense within five years of the first, penalties increase significantly:
- Fines: $1,000 to $2,000 (up to $4,000 if BAC is 0.15% or higher).
- Jail Time: Up to 9 months (mandatory 10 days if within 5 years of the first offense).
- License Suspension: Minimum 5 years if within 5 years of the first DUI.
- Ignition Interlock Device: Mandatory for at least one year.
- Vehicle Impoundment: 30 days.
3. Third DUI Offense
A third DUI within 10 years is classified as a felony in Florida. Consequences include:
- Fines: $2,000 to $5,000 (at least $4,000 if BAC is 0.15% or higher).
- Jail Time: Up to 5 years in prison (mandatory 30 days if within 10 years of the second DUI).
- License Revocation: Minimum 10 years.
- Ignition Interlock Device: Mandatory for 2 years.
4. Fourth DUI Offense or More
A fourth DUI conviction is an automatic felony, regardless of when previous DUIs occurred. The penalties include:
- Fines: At least $2,000.
- Jail Time: Up to 5 years in prison.
- Permanent License Revocation: No chance of reinstatement.
5. Additional Consequences
In addition to fines and jail time, a DUI conviction in Broward County can lead to:
- Higher car insurance premiums or policy cancellation.
- Difficulty finding employment, especially for jobs requiring driving.
- A permanent criminal record that may affect housing and career opportunities.
What to Do If You’re Facing a DUI Charge
If you’ve been charged with DUI in Broward County, it’s crucial to seek legal help immediately. An experienced DUI defense attorney can challenge the evidence, negotiate for reduced charges, and help you fight for the best possible outcome.
A DUI conviction can impact your future, but with the right legal defense, you may be able to avoid the harshest penalties.
This post was written by a professional at The Law Office of Eric H. Clayman, P.A. The Law Office of Eric H. Clayman, P.A., serves Ft. Lauderdale and Broward County, specializing in criminal defense, including dui attorney Broward, drug crimes, and violent offenses. With a background as a former police officer, Eric H. Clayman brings invaluable insight into law enforcement procedures. His experience as a DUI investigator, narcotics investigator, and member of street crimes and auto theft units, along with executing high-risk felony warrants, gives him a strategic edge in defending his clients. Committed to protecting your rights and achieving the best results, the Law Office of Eric H. Clayman, P.A., is your trusted ally in the face of criminal charges.
