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Hire an Experienced Criminal / DUI Lawyer in Palm Beach County.
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Hire an Experienced DUI Lawyer in Florida Kevin has been involved with thousands of cases in Florida.
Kevin has handled thousands of cases in Palm Beach County and the local court systems. Most of all, he knows how to defend you against DUI charges successfully.
What You Should Know About Florida DUI Penalties
Being faced with a first time DUI in Florida can be an overwhelming and scary experience. It’s essential to understand the details of Florida DUI charges and what makes a first-time charge unique.
Possible Penalties
A first-time DUI in Florida is categorized as a mixed misdemeanor but can carry heavier penalties than most other misdemeanors. These penalties can include:
- Jail time: Those convicted of a first-time DUI in Florida may face jail time for up to six months or more if any additional circumstances noted below apply to your situation
- License suspension and vehicle impoundment: Your license may be suspended directly by the DMV if its processes and requirements are not followed, or it may be suspended at your court hearing. Additionally, you may have your car impounded for 10 days.
- Ignition interlock device: In some cases, after your car is returned to you and the suspension of your license is over, you will still need to use an ignition interlock device to start your car for the next six months or more.
- Fines: The fine amount for most first-offense DUIs in Florida is between $500 and $1,000.
- Probation, community service, and substance abuse programs: The majority of first-time DUI convictions in Florida result in a requirement of up to a year of probation and 50 hours of community service. In all cases, offenders have to attend a substance abuse program.
A DUI conviction, even if it is your first offense, can be a costly incident both in terms of time and money. Work with a qualified and determined lawyer to protect yourself if you are facing DUI charges.
Additional Considerations
Even if it is your first time DUI in Florida, you may face harsher penalties under certain circumstances, such as:
- Having a minor in the car with you at the time of your DUI
- Having a blood alcohol content level higher than .15%
- Causing an accident while under the influence, especially if it results in property damage or injuries
These circumstances can increase possible jail time to nine months, increase fines to up to $2,000, and add additional time using ignition interlock devices. Understanding the specifics of the charges you face is crucial to preserving your rights. The best way to gain a full understanding of the situation and the laws is to work with a trusted and experienced lawyer like Peterford Law.
Contact an Attorney
Kevin Peterford is a former prosecutor and has been on the other side of the courtroom. He has handled hundreds of DUI cases and tried over 30 trials to verdict.
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Peterford Law Top Google-Rated DUI & Criminal Defense Attorney in Palm Beach County
Kevin Peterford is a former prosecutor and has been on the other side of the courtroom. He has handled hundreds of criminal cases and tried over 25 trials to verdict. With his extensive experience in criminal and DUI prosecution, Kevin presents a winning argument every time.
25+ Jury Trials
Kevin has tried over 25 cases to verdict. In 2018 he was recognized for handling the most trials in Palm Beach County.
3+ Years Former Prosecutor
Extensive knowledge of the court system which helps provide clients with the best defense possible.
2000+ Cases Handled
As a former prosecutor and now defense attorney, Kevin has been involved with hundreds of cases in Florida.
Field sobriety tests are voluntary!
You do not have to agree to this test. In fact, it is within your legal rights to refuse.
Next Steps
A common misconception when facing a first-time DUI in Florida is that the consequences won’t be severe due to it being a first offense. However, with penalties including six months of jail time and $1,000 in fines at stake, it is worth being thorough and getting necessary support even if it is your first offense. Facing a DUI conviction in Florida means it will be on your record for 75 years.
Additionally, going through the process for the first time also means it’s easier to make common mistakes and miss key actions and deadlines. For example, it’s important to visit the DMV within the first 10 days of your arrest to complete the administrative process to keep your license. This is often overlooked by those not familiar with the system, resulting in loss or suspension of license even if court penalties do not include this consequence.
Having experienced and compassionate legal representation to help you through the overwhelming and stressful process of facing a first-time DUI offense in Florida is crucial. Peterford Law is an experienced and understanding DUI defense lawyer committed to protecting your rights. From the workplace to your financial health and personal life, a DUI conviction has long-lasting negative consequences.
Peterford Law has handled more than 1,000 cases. As a former prosecutor, he thoroughly understands the legal processes and requirements at hand when you face a first-time DUI offense in Florida. Florida has stringent DUI laws, meaning proper representation is more important than ever. His familiarity with important deadlines, possible penalties and a variety of legal nuances makes him well-equipped to work to defend you in a DUI case. Request a consultation today.
Get Experienced Help With Your First Time DUI in Florida
With a DUI charge, there’s no time to waste. It’s critical to have a skilled attorney who will work to fight your charge. Kevin Peterford’s experience on both sides of the courtroom gives him an edge to help your case. Don’t waste valuable time in preparing your own DUI case! Contact Peterford Law today.
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Contact an Attorney
Kevin Peterford is a former prosecutor and has been on the other side of the courtroom. He has handled hundreds of DUI cases and tried over 30 trials to verdict.