Jacksonville Aggravated DUI Attorney

Aggressive Defense to Your Jacksonville Aggravated DUI Charges

Driving under the influence (DUI) charges are serious, but when aggravating factors are present, the stakes become even higher. An aggravated DUI charge means additional circumstances make the offense more severe, such as high blood alcohol content (BAC), prior DUI convictions, or causing harm to others. At Monroe Law, P.A., we understand how overwhelming an aggravated DUI charge can be, and we are dedicated to helping clients navigate these complex cases. If you or a loved one is facing an aggravated DUI in Jacksonville, you need an experienced attorney who knows the law and is ready to fight for your rights.

Contact a Jacksonville aggravated DUI defense lawyer by calling (904) 507-6194 today!

Understanding Aggravated DUI Charges in Florida

In Florida, a DUI charge can be elevated to an aggravated DUI if certain factors are involved. Some of the most common circumstances that can lead to an aggravated DUI include:

Extremely High BAC Levels: A standard DUI involves a BAC of 0.08%, but if the BAC is 0.15% or higher, the charge may be upgraded to an aggravated DUI. Higher BAC levels indicate a greater impairment, which Florida courts consider a more severe threat to public safety.

Previous DUI Convictions: Individuals with prior DUI convictions are at a higher risk of facing aggravated DUI charges. Multiple DUIs demonstrate a pattern of behavior that the courts often penalize more harshly.

DUI with Minors in the Vehicle: Driving under the influence while a minor is in the car can also lead to an aggravated DUI. Florida takes the safety of minors very seriously, and the presence of a child in the vehicle significantly increases the penalties for DUI.

Causing Injury or Property Damage: When a DUI results in injury to another person, property damage, or even fatalities, the charges become much more severe. Injuries can lead to DUI with serious bodily injury charges or DUI manslaughter, both of which carry long-term penalties.

Each of these factors can lead to harsher sentencing, such as higher fines, longer jail time, mandatory community service, and extended probation. The presence of any aggravating factor means it’s crucial to have a skilled attorney on your side.

Penalties for Aggravated DUI in Jacksonville

The penalties for an aggravated DUI in Florida are more severe than those for a standard DUI and can vary depending on the specific aggravating factors involved. However, common penalties for aggravated DUI may include:

Fines: Aggravated DUI convictions often carry substantial fines. The amount may increase depending on the severity of the aggravating circumstances, such as a high BAC or the presence of prior DUI convictions.

Jail Time: Aggravated DUIs come with the possibility of significant jail time, which can range from months to several years in cases involving serious bodily injury or death. Repeat offenders or those with extremely high BAC levels are more likely to face longer jail sentences.

Extended License Suspension: A standard DUI often results in a temporary license suspension, but an aggravated DUI can lead to an extended suspension period. In cases involving repeat offenders or severe aggravating factors, the state may impose a longer suspension or even a permanent revocation of driving privileges.

Mandatory Community Service: Florida courts may require those convicted of aggravated DUI to complete community service hours, particularly in cases where the DUI did not involve injury or death. This penalty is often applied alongside other consequences, such as fines or probation.

Installation of Ignition Interlock Devices (IID): Drivers convicted of aggravated DUI may be required to install an IID in their vehicle. This device prevents the car from starting if the driver’s BAC is above a certain level. IIDs are often mandated for drivers with high BACs or repeat DUI convictions.

Probation and Alcohol Treatment Programs: In many cases, an aggravated DUI conviction may result in probation and require the offender to complete an alcohol education or treatment program. This is especially common for first-time aggravated DUI offenders, as the court may see these programs as opportunities for rehabilitation.

Long-Term Consequences of Aggravated DUI

Beyond the immediate legal penalties, an aggravated DUI conviction can have lasting effects on a person’s life. Some of these long-term consequences include:

Impact on Employment: A DUI conviction on one’s record can limit career opportunities, as many employers conduct background checks and may be reluctant to hire someone with a DUI history. For professionals whose jobs require a clean driving record, such as commercial drivers, an aggravated DUI can be especially damaging.

Increased Insurance Rates: Insurance companies view aggravated DUI convictions as high-risk, leading to significantly higher premiums. In some cases, a driver may find it difficult to obtain insurance at all following an aggravated DUI conviction.

Restrictions on Travel: Certain countries, including Canada, may deny entry to individuals with a DUI conviction. For those who travel internationally, a DUI on record could complicate or even prevent future travel plans.

Loss of Professional Licenses: Those in professions that require state licensing—such as healthcare, law, and education—may face disciplinary actions, license suspensions, or revocations due to a DUI conviction. This impact can be devastating for individuals who have spent years building their careers.

Reputation and Personal Relationships: Aggravated DUI convictions can also affect a person’s personal life. Relationships with family, friends, and colleagues may suffer due to the stigma associated with a DUI conviction, as well as the personal challenges that often follow.