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Driving Under the Influence (DUI) and Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) are serious criminal offenses in Saint Augustine, Florida, as well as the rest of the United States. Being charged with a DUI or DWI means that a person has been caught driving or in physical control of a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or other drugs, including prescription medications and illegal substances.
A lawyer is essential when facing a DUI or DWI charge due to the complex legal procedures and potential serious consequences, such as jail time, fines, community service, DUI school, and imposition of an ignition interlock device. Furthermore, there's a need for deep understanding and expertise in defending such cases that may involve scientific evidence like breathalyzer results and field sobriety tests.
In Saint Augustine, Florida, a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher is considered legally drunk for drivers over 21. For commercial drivers, the BAC is 0.04%. Meanwhile, drivers under 21 can be convicted of a DUI with any alcohol level. The penalties can differ greatly depending on the circumstances, including the number of previous offenses, the driver's age, and whether the DUI caused injury or death.
A first-time DUI charge can result in fines between $500 and $1,000, up to six months in jail, driver's license suspension for up to one year, and mandatory 50 hours of community service or an additional fine of $10 per hour of community service required.
In Florida, as in many other states, when you accept your driver’s license, you give implied consent to these tests. Refusal could lead to a one-year license suspension for the first refusal and an 18-month suspension for subsequent refusals.
In most cases, an administrative suspension will occur if your BAC is over the legal limit or you refuse the breath test. This suspension is separate from any penalties or suspension received if convicted in court.
Yes, you have 10 days from the date of the arrest to challenge the administrative suspension of your license. This is where a lawyer becomes very important as the process can be quite complex.
It is possible, depending on the specific facts of your case and your legal representation. That's why it's crucial to have competent and qualified legal counsel.
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles provides resources related to DUI penalties. You can also visit the website of Saint Augustine Police Department for local regulations and updates. For legal resources, the Florida State Bar Association provides lawyer referrals.
If you are facing a DUI or DWI charge in Saint Augustine, Florida, the first step is to consult with a knowledgeable and experienced attorney. Keep in mind that the more time your attorney has before your first court appearance, the better they can prepare your defense. Make sure to remember the details of the arrest as accurately as possible, as it can be crucial in your case.
