Sunday, June 16, 2013

DUI While On Vacation in Florida

Many people from other states outside Florida want to have a great vacation in the Sunshine State. But what if a vacation DUI happens to you in Florida? A vacation DUI is one of the worst things to happen. Unfortunately, it happens. If you face DUI while on vacation in Florida, you may face harsh penalties. These include fines, community service, and even jail time. Let’s take a closer look at these penalties.

Community Service

You may probably wonder whether you have to stay in Florida to do community service after you get charged with a vacation DUI. A first time conviction of DUI in the state may lead to 50 hours of community service. This may cause hassle to you because you live outside the state. Luckily, there are lawyers who can help you negotiate to have this part removed. Instead of community service, you can pay for an extra fine of $10 per every hour of community service that is assigned to you.

Probation

Drivers who have been charged with DUI in Florida may be required to be placed under probation. For the first offense, the probation and jail time cannot exceed one year. Like doing community service, this may be impossible for a vacationer to do. A DUI defense lawyer can help you avoid this part of potential penalty.

Jail Time

Many judges in Florida like to give jail time to people who have been guilty of a DUI. Take note that this can happen on the first offense. The judge can send you to jail for up to six months or, in some cases, up to nine months in first time cases. The penalties are steeper for subsequent offenses. You need to talk to a lawyer who can argue against this form of penalty.

Impounding

Many cases of DUI in Florida lead to the impoundment of the vehicle of the drunk driver. The length of time for the impoundment depends on different factors surrounding the DUI. Many lawyer usually argue against impoundment by saying that the defendant needs the vehicle as this is the only form of transportation for his or her family.

Vacation DUI is not a funny issue in Florida. This is an issue that needs to be taken seriously. Travelers like you who face this problem should ask for legal assistance of an experienced DUI defense lawyer. The lawyer can help you get through this case and back home.

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