Clay County DUI Defense Lawyer
Let Our Firm Fight for You
If you've been charged with driving under the influence (DUI) in Clay County, FL, it’s crucial to have an experienced defense team on your side. At First Coast Criminal Defense, we understand how overwhelming a DUI arrest can be and the serious impact it may have on your life. With extensive knowledge of Florida DUI laws, we are prepared to defend your rights, challenge the evidence, and help you navigate the legal process with confidence.
To schedule a free consultation, call (904) 474-3115 or contact us online today.
What is Considered a DUI in Florida?
In Florida, a person can be charged with DUI if they are found to be operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs to the extent that their normal faculties are impaired. The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in Florida is 0.08% for drivers over the age of 21. However, drivers can also be charged with a DUI if they exhibit impaired behavior, even if their BAC is below 0.08%.
For drivers under the age of 21, Florida has a zero-tolerance policy. A BAC of 0.02% or higher can result in a DUI charge. Commercial drivers face stricter limits as well, with a legal BAC threshold of 0.04%.
You can also be charged with DUI if you are found to be driving under the influence of illegal drugs, prescription medications, or over-the-counter drugs that impair your ability to operate a vehicle safely.
DUI Penalties in Florida
The penalties for a DUI conviction in Florida depend on several factors, including your BAC level, whether it’s your first offense, and whether there were any aggravating circumstances like accidents or injuries. However, even a first-time offense carries significant consequences.
First-Time DUI Penalties
- Fines ranging from $500 to $1,000
- License suspension for up to one year
- Up to six months in jail
- Probation
- Community service
- Mandatory DUI school
Second DUI Penalties
- Fines ranging from $1,000 to $2,000
- License suspension for up to five years
- Jail time of up to nine months
- Mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device (IID)
- DUI school and evaluation for substance abuse
Third and Subsequent DUIs
- Fines up to $5,000
- License revocation for up to ten years
- Up to five years in prison
- Mandatory IID installation for two years or more
- Extended DUI school and substance abuse treatment
Aggravating Circumstances
If your DUI involved an accident that resulted in injury or death, or if you were driving with a minor in the vehicle, you could face enhanced penalties, including felony charges, longer jail sentences, and increased fines.
Other legal consequences include:
- Financial Burden: The costs of a DUI conviction extend far beyond court fines. You may be required to pay for DUI school, probation fees, higher insurance premiums, and the installation of an ignition interlock device. The financial strain can last long after your case is resolved.
- Criminal Record: A DUI conviction stays on your criminal record permanently, which can affect your employment prospects, ability to rent housing, and eligibility for loans or other financial assistance. A criminal record can also impact your personal and professional relationships.
- Professional and Personal Reputation: A DUI charge can damage your reputation in your community and among friends, family, or colleagues. If you hold a professional license, such as a CDL for commercial drivers, a DUI conviction can result in its suspension or revocation, jeopardizing your career.
- Increased Insurance Rates: After a DUI, your car insurance rates will likely increase significantly. Insurance companies view DUI convictions as a sign of risky driving behavior, which can lead to skyrocketing premiums or difficulty finding affordable coverage.
- Employment Challenges: Many employers conduct background checks before hiring, and a DUI conviction can make it harder to secure a job, particularly in fields where driving is required. If you are already employed, some companies may terminate your employment upon learning of a DUI conviction.
Defending Against a DUI Charge in Clay County
At First Coast Criminal Defense, we believe that every person deserves a robust defense, regardless of the charges they face. We will examine every aspect of your case to identify possible defenses, such as:
- Challenging the Traffic Stop: Law enforcement must have a valid reason for stopping your vehicle. If there was no reasonable cause, the stop—and all evidence gathered from it—could be deemed inadmissible in court.
- Questioning the Accuracy of Breathalyzer or Field Sobriety Tests: Breathalyzers and field sobriety tests are not foolproof. Issues such as improper calibration, officer error, or medical conditions can skew the results. We will investigate whether these tests were administered correctly and whether the results are reliable.
- Raising Doubts About Impairment: Even if your BAC was above the legal limit, we can argue that you were not actually impaired at the time of driving. Certain medications, fatigue, or other factors can mimic impairment, and we will work to show that you were in control of your vehicle.
- Exploring Plea Bargains: In some cases, reducing your charges or negotiating a favorable plea bargain can be a viable option. We will explore all avenues to minimize the impact of a DUI charge on your life.
Contact us today at (904) 474-3115 to request a free case review.
