In the state of Florida, drivers aren’t allowed to drive while intoxicated. The choice to drive while under the influence could lead to an arrest based on the blood-alcohol content reading. A reading of 0.08 percent indicates a DUI. A criminal defense lawyer in Jupiter, FL will help these drivers build a defense against these charges.
What Are the Penalties for a First-Offense?
The penalties for a first-offense DUI begin with a ten-day jail sentence. The court may extend this assignment for up to one year. The fine for the offense starts at $300 and could range up to $1,000. The accused receives no less than forty-hours of community services. They also acquire probate for no more than one year. The driver’s license suspension is one year.
The Drug and Alcohol Education
The state of Florida refers to the drug and alcohol education requirement as the risk reduction program. The convicted individual will be required to pay the full cost of the program. After all fees and assessments, the individual pays about $280.
Additionally, the individual is required to attend Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous throughout their probation period. The probation officer conducts random drug or alcohol testing during this period. Any failures could lead to further penalties for non-compliance.
Refusing to Submit to Testing
The penalty for refusing to submit for testing is an additional driver’s license suspension for one year. The state utilizes the implied consent ruling to acquire testing. This indicates that the driver gave their consent by making the choice to drive while intoxicated. However, the state must convict the individual of the infraction. The accused retains the right to request legal counsel before testing is conducted. The county jail cannot force a driver to take a breathalyzer test. They also cannot refuse to fulfill their Miranda Rights.
In Florida, all drivers who have a blood-alcohol reading of 0.08 percent or higher is guilty of a DUI. This infraction leads to criminal penalties based on the number of previous convictions on the individual’s record. Drivers who are facing these charges should contact a criminal defense lawyer in Jupiter, FL or click here for more information today.
