DUI Penalties You May Face in Gainesville

Building a DUI Defense to Avoid the Maximum Penalty

The law does not go easy on DUI in this state. Even for a first time offender, the penalties are not to be taken lightly. Severity of penalties for DUI will depend on a number of factors, including blood alcohol content (BAC) and any prior offenses. If you have been arrested for DUI, our first advice is to get defense from a powerful attorney to avoid the maximum penalties associated with your case.

At Kinsell Law Firm, our lawyers have the background and experience to help you through the DUI process while working to minimize any damage to your life. Two of our partners are former state prosecutors, with deep experience after handling thousands of DUI cases. We can use that knowledge and experience to the benefit of our clients.

What Penalties Can I Expect for My DUI?

For a first-time offender with a BAC below 0.15%, the penalties are a fine of $500 to $1,000 and imprisonment for up to 6 months. With a BAC of 0.15% or higher, or with a person 18 years or younger in the vehicle, the penalties increase to a fine of $1,000 to $2,000 and imprisonment for up to 9 months.

Penalties are more sever for a second offense – $1,000 to $2,000 fine and up to 9 months imprisonment with a BAC below 0.15%; $2,000 to $4,000 fine and up to 12 months imprisonment with a BAC of 0.15% or higher, or with a person 18 years or younger in the vehicle.

A third DUI conviction within 10 years after a prior conviction is a third-degree felony, punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine. There is a mandatory ignition interlock device with a third conviction, installed at the defendant's expense, for a period of not less than 2 years. A minimum jail time is required for second and third DUI convictions – 10 days for the second offense and 30 days for the third. Do not face these penalties alone.