Understanding DUI Penalties in Pinellas County, FL
If you’re seeking information on DUI penalties, it’s crucial to know that the consequences of a DUI offense can vary based on several factors. Here are key considerations:
Blood-Alcohol Content (BAC):
Penalties can be more severe if your BAC or breath-alcohol content (BrAC) is over .15. For more detailed information on Florida DUI laws, individuals can refer to the official Florida Statutes website (https://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/) or consult with legal professionals who specialize in DUI defense to ensure accurate and up-to-date guidance. Understanding the legal consequences associated with elevated BAC levels empowers individuals to make informed decisions and navigate the legal process more effectively.
Presence of a Minor:
Having a minor as a passenger can impact the severity of penalties.
Involvement in a Crash:
If a motor vehicle crash occurs with property damage or injuries, it can lead to increased penalties.
Refusal to Submit to Testing:
Refusing a chemical test, whether for breath, blood, or urine, following a prior refusal can lead to heightened legal consequences. In the context of DUI offenses, the decision to decline such testing can carry significant ramifications. When an individual has previously refused to undergo a chemical test, subsequent refusals often trigger increased penalties. Legal systems view repeated refusals as an aggravating factor, reflecting negatively on the individual’s cooperation with law enforcement.
Prior DUI Convictions:
The presence of prior DUI convictions is a critical factor. Consider the following scenarios:
- First lifetime DUI conviction.
- Second DUI outside of five years from any prior conviction.
- Second DUI within five years from any prior conviction.
- Third DUI outside of ten years from any prior conviction.
- Third DUI within ten years from any prior conviction.
- Fourth lifetime DUI conviction.
To make this information more accessible, the State Attorney’s Office for the Sixth Judicial Circuit in Pinellas County has created a chart summarizing these penalties. Keep in mind that these penalties are typically imposed at the time of sentencing. It’s important to be aware of these factors and seek guidance if you find yourself facing DUI charges.
Lawyer Fighting Pinellas DUI Penalties in Clearwater, FL
I am a specialist in DUI Defense in Pinellas County, FL.
I am near the Pinellas County Courthouse with my office located in Tampa Bay. You can find me close to the Courthouse in Clearwater, FL located at 14250 49th St N Clearwater, FL 33762-2800 . By the way, the court is located near the Clearwater Bureau of Administrative Reviews (BAR) located at 4585 140th Ave N #1001, Clearwater, FL 33762, USA.
Whether your DUI case involves a breath test, blood test, urine test, or refusal to submit to a chemical test, we’re here to assist you. Don’t go to court by yourself.
Reach out to a skilled criminal defense lawyer in Pinellas County, FL, for traffic crimes. Give me a call at 813-222-2220.
Table of Minimum Mandatory DUI Penalties in Pinellas County, FL
| Type | Costs | Prob | Lic | Jail | Impound | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st DUI below .15 | $983 | 12 m | 6 m to 1 yr |
6 m | 10 days | DUI School, Evaluation Treatment, 50 hrs Comm Service |
| 1st DUI .15 or less 18 in car | $1,518 | 12 m | 6 m to 1 yr |
9 m | 10 days | DUI School, Evaluation Treatment, 50 hrs Comm Service 6 months Ignition Interlock |
| 2nd DUI in 5 y Below .15 |
$1,518 | 12 m | Man 5 yrs |
Man
10 d |
30 days | DUI School, Evaluation Treatment,1 yr Ignition Interlock |
| 2nd DUI in 5 y .15 or higher |
$2,558 | 12 m | Man 5 yrs |
Man 10 d |
30 days | DUI School, Evaluation Treatment,2 yrs Ignition Interlock |
| 2nd DUI Over 5 y below .15 |
$2,558 | 12 m | 6 m 1 yr |
9 m | 10 days | DUI School, Evaluation Treatment, 50 hrs Comm Service 1 yr Ignition Interlock |
| 2nd DUI Over 5 y Over .15 |
$2,558 | 12 m | 6 m 1 yr |
12 m | 10 days | DUI School, Evaluation Treatment,2 yrs Ignition Interlock |
| 3rd DUI 10 y Below .15 Felony |
$2,558 | 60 m | Man 10 y |
Man 30 d
5y FSP |
90 days | DUI School, Evaluation Treatment,2 yrs Ignition Interlock |
| 3rd DUI 10 y Over .15 Felony |
$4,558 | 60 m | Man 10 yrs |
Man 30 d | 90 days | DUI School, Evaluation Treatment,2 yrs Ignition Interlock |
| 3rd DUI Over 10 yrs Under .15 |
$2,558 | 12 m | 6 m to 1 yr |
12 m | 10 d | DUI School, Evaluation Treatment,2 yrs Ignition Interlock |
| 3rd DUI Over 10 yrs, Over .15 |
$4,558 | 12 m | 6 m to 1 yr |
12 m | 10 d | DUI School, Evaluation Treatment,2 yrs Ignition Interlock |
| 4th DUI Life Felony | $4,558 | 60 m | Perm | 5 y | 10, 30, 90 d | DUI School, Evaluation Treatment,2 yrs Ignition Interlock |
Summary of Penalties for Driving Under the Influence
Navigating DUI penalties in Pinellas County, FL, involves understanding varying consequences influenced by factors like Blood-Alcohol Content (BAC) and prior convictions. The State Attorney’s Office provides a helpful chart summarizing these penalties. Specialist Casey the Lawyer, near Pinellas County Courthouse, emphasizes professional assistance for DUI cases involving tests or refusals. If facing charges, contact at 813-222-2220. Don’t navigate court alone.