Experienced DUI Defense From A Proven Miami Attorney
Don’t let DUI charges dictate your future. Fight for your rights and best interests with the help of a skilled Miami DUI attorney.
My name is Sara Shulevitz, and I provide skilled DUI defense services to drivers in the Miami area. In addition to my main office in Miami, I also have a New York office. In my over 20 years of practicing law, I have achieved success in a wide range of criminal cases. I always put my clients and their needs first. Here at the Law Offices of Sara Shulevitz, P.A., I am ready to help you fight any type of Florida DUI charge.
Is DUI A Misdemeanor Or A Felony?
Typically, DUI is a misdemeanor. However, it can rise to a felony charge if: it’s a third DUI within 10 years of a prior conviction, it’s a fourth DUI or higher, or it resulted in death or serious injury.
What Are The Penalties For A First-Time DUI In Florida?
In Florida, even a first-time DUI charge can lead to serious consequences. A conviction typically comes with:
- Up to six months in jail
- A fine of $500 to $1,000
- License revocation for 180 days to one year
The penalties can be even more severe when there are aggravating circumstances, like a BAC over .15%.
Repeat Offenses Trigger Heavier DUI Penalties
Allegations of repeat DUI offenses are even more serious. This can be seen in the heavier penalties for repeat DUI offenses in the state:
- Second offense: Up to nine months in jail, a fine of $1,000 to $2,000 and license revocation for at least five years
- Third offense: Up to five years in prison, a fine of $2,000 to $5,000 and license revocation for a minimum of 10 years (with lower penalties if the last prior conviction happened more than 10 years ago)
- Fourth offense (or more): Up to five years in prison, a fine of at least $2,000 and permanent license revocation
Penalties worsen with aggravating factors.
Can You Drive After A DUI Arrest In Florida?
Yes, but possibly only for a short period of time. Under Florida law, if you refused a BAC test or tested at or above .08%, your license generally will be automatically suspended. The length of the suspension is:
- Six months for testing at or above .08% with no prior DUIs
- One year for testing at or above .08% with a prior DUI
- One year for refusing a BAC test
You typically will receive a 10-day temporary permit upon being given notice of the suspension. At this point, you also may have some options for protecting your license. However, acting promptly can be critical; as you generally only have 10 days after notice of a suspension to request a suspension review or a restricted license eligibility review. So, speaking with a knowledgeable Miami DUI attorney as soon as possible can be critical. I can help you with taking prompt, proactive steps in response to an automatic DUI-related license suspension.
Fighting Drugged Driving Allegations
DUI charges aren’t limited to alcohol. Drugged driving, whether involving illegal drugs or legal prescription medications, can also lead to charges. When you are accused of drunk driving or drugged driving, I am here to give you the strong DUI defense you need.
Exploring Pretrial Diversion
Contesting the DUI charges you face may not be your only option. For example, you might be able to participate in a pretrial diversion program. Such programs offer a chance to avoid DUI prosecution by completing classes and accepting other penalties. However, this option isn’t always available or advisable. I am here to answer your questions on pretrial diversion.
Get In Touch With A Trusted Miami DUI Attorney Today
Let’s work together to protect your future. Call my criminal defense firm today at 645-220-2720 or reach out through my contact form. I am fluent in English, Yiddish and Hebrew, and my assistant speaks Spanish.