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Palm Harbor, Clearwater-Largo, Holiday - 727-781-0000

Kantaras & Andreopoulus Attorneys at Law

Clearwater DUI Attorneys

Charges & penalties for first, second & third offenses

With law offices in Largo, Holiday & Palm Harbor, we serve Pasco, Pinellas and Hillsborough Counties

The penalties for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) can be severe, especially if you are not represented by an experienced Clearwater DUI defense attorney.  Penalties vary with the severity of the offense.

Clearwater DUI first offense penalties

Being charged with a DUI for the first time is a traumatic experience.  In addition to a $250 to $500 fine and 12 hours of DUI school, repercussions for a DUI first offense in Florida may include the following:

  • License suspension: at least 180 days
  • Community service: 50 hours
  • Probation: maximum of one year
  • Imprisonment: maximum of six months

Be sure to discuss your case with a reputable DUI attorney as soon as possible following your arrest.  Your attorney can help you decide whether or not to contest the charges, or which charges to contest.

Clearwater DUI second offense penalties

Penalties for a second DUI offense are generally harsher versions of first offense penalties.  Florida DUI penalties for a second DUI offense occurring within five years of the first include the following:

  • License suspension: 5 years
  • Probation: maximum 1 year
  • Imprisonment: 10 to 270 days
  • Vehicle impoundment: 30 days

The driver must also pay a fine of $500 to $1000, attend DUI school, and install an Interlock Ignition Device in his or her car for one year.

Clearwater DUI third offense penalties

If a driver is convicted of his or her third DUI offense within 10 years, the penalties are even more severe.  A third offense is considered a third degree felony, and hence punishment is not dictated by the Motor Vehicle Code.  Penalties normally include the following:

  • Imprisonment: not exceeding five years
  • Fine: up to $5000
  • Interlock Ignition Device: two-year mandatory installation
  • License revocation: 10-year minimum

Florida also imposes a zero-tolerance law targeting DUI cases in which the driver is under-age.  If an under-age driver is found with a Blood Alcohol Content over .02 percent, his or her license is immediately revoked.

Skilled DUI defense in Clearwater

Traffic laws in Clearwater are complicated and difficult to navigate in the legal system if you do not have legal expertise.  At the Law Offices of Kantaras & Andreopoulos, we provide the legal guidance you need to protect your permanent record.

If you are charged with DUI, consider the skilled lawyers at the Law Offices of Kantaras & Andreopoulos. With a strong reputation for success in defending drivers charged with DUI, Kantaras and Andreopoulos will work hard to ensure you receive a fair trial. Contact the Law Offices of Kantaras & Andreopoulos for a free consultation today at (727) 544-0000.