A second-offense DUI in Tavares can carry more severe penalties and consequences than a first offense under Florida law. A second driving under the influence (DUI) conviction may carry higher fines, additional restrictions on your driving privileges, and other penalties that can affect your daily life.
Adequate legal representation is essential. At Largey Law Firm, justice is our business, which is why every case receives personal attention and is directly handled by our attorneys. Our skilled DUI attorneys could review the circumstances of your case and help you understand your legal options and potential defenses.
Grounds for a DUI Charge
When peace officers observe erratic behaviors on the roadway, it is their job to initiate a traffic stop to ensure the safety of both the motorist and other road users. If, upon approaching and interacting with the driver, the police officer suspects that the driver may be under the influence or impaired, the officer may request that the vehicle operator take certain field tests, including a breathalyzer or field sobriety test, to rule out or confirm the officer’s suspicions.
A blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 percent or more puts you at risk of being arrested; so does failing the field sobriety test. Failure to agree to a law enforcement officer’s request for a field or breathalyzer test is considered a violation of the state’s implied consent statute, Florida Statutes § 316.1932. This is a crime in Tavares, is grounds for an immediate arrest, and is often charged as a first- or second-degree misdemeanor, depending on whether it is a first or second DUI offense.
Penalties for a Second DUI Offense
In the eyes of the law, a repeat DUI offense in Tavares within five years of the first is not a mistake, even if it was a genuine error. Instead, it is considered a lifestyle, which is why the prosecution often seeks to impose more severe punishment on culprits.
Common penalties include:
- Jail time of up to nine months with a mandatory minimum of 10 days
- Mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device for a minimum of one year
- Mandatory attendance at a DUI school program
- Monetary fines up to $4,000 if BAC is greater than 0.15 percent and/or there was a minor present in the car
- Up to 30 days of vehicle immobilization
- Possible attendance at an alcohol treatment program
- Driver’s license revoked for up to five years
These penalties can upend your life and cause significant damage to your reputation. A conviction means certain rights or civil liberties may be restricted, including your ability to find and keep a good job due to the criminal record.
Call a Tavares Attorney to Seek Help For a Second-Offense DUI
A mistake should not ruin your life. However, the state has severe penalties for a second-offense DUI in Tavares. Without adequate legal representation, your freedom and quality of life will be seriously threatened. You need an experienced lawyer to fight these charges.
At Largey Law Firm, we have successfully represented individuals accused of repeat DUI offenses in greater Lake County. We are committed to exploring ways to help you beat these allegations. Call now for a case evaluation.
