🚨 Arrested for DUI in Florida? Here’s What You’re Really Facing
Florida has some of the toughest DUI laws in the country. Even a first-time conviction can result in jail time, fines, and a suspended license. And it only gets worse if your BAC is high, someone was injured, or you’ve been arrested before.
At Michael White, P.A., we’ve helped thousands of clients across Fort Lauderdale and South Florida reduce—or avoid—these penalties altogether.
📋 DUI Penalties in Florida: The Basics
Here’s what Florida law says you’re up against if convicted:
🔹 First DUI (No Aggravating Factors)
Up to 6 months in jail
$500–$1,000 fine
License suspension: 6–12 months
10-day vehicle impound
DUI school + possible substance abuse evaluation
🔹 First DUI With BAC .15+ or Minor in Car
Up to 9 months in jail
$1,000–$2,000 fine
Mandatory ignition interlock (at court’s discretion)
🔹 Second DUI (within 5 years)
Minimum 10 days in jail (up to 9 months)
$1,000–$2,000 fine
5-year license revocation
Ignition interlock required for at least 1 year
🔹 Third DUI (within 10 years)
Felony charge
Up to 5 years in prison
10-year license revocation
Heavy fines and long-term interlock
🧠 But Not Every DUI Results in These Penalties
Prosecutors must prove every element of the crime—and we don’t make that easy.
We fight to:
Challenge the legality of the stop or arrest
Suppress flawed breath, blood, or field sobriety evidence
Reduce charges to reckless driving or dismiss them entirely
📌 Related Reading:
🚗 What About Your Driver’s License?
Florida DUI penalties include both criminal and administrative consequences.
Even before your first court date, the DHSMV may suspend your license. But you may be eligible for a hardship license if you act fast.
🛑 Don't Plead Guilty Without Talking to a Lawyer
There are dozens of ways to fight a DUI—and you only need one to change the outcome. Whether it’s negotiating a reduced charge or suppressing evidence entirely, we know how to keep your record clean.
📞 Arrested? Let’s Talk.
If you’re facing DUI penalties in Fort Lauderdale or anywhere in South Florida, we’re ready to fight back.
📲 Call (954) 270-0769 or schedule a consultation now.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🚓 What are the penalties for a first-time DUI in Florida?
A first-time DUI in Florida can lead to up to 6 months in jail, a \$500–\$1,000 fine, a 6–12 month license suspension, vehicle impound, and mandatory DUI school. Penalties increase if your BAC is .15+ or a minor was in the vehicle.
🔁 What happens if I get a second DUI in Florida?
If your second DUI occurs within 5 years of the first, you face mandatory jail time, a minimum 5-year license revocation, fines up to \$2,000, and a required ignition interlock device.
🛑 Can I avoid jail for a DUI in Florida?
Yes—especially if it’s your first offense and there are no aggravating factors. Your lawyer may be able to negotiate a plea to a lesser charge, get the evidence suppressed, or qualify you for a diversion or treatment-based resolution.
🧪 Do DUI penalties change if I refused the breath test?
Yes. Refusing a breath test can result in a 1-year license suspension for a first refusal and possible criminal charges for a second refusal. However, the refusal may be challenged in court if your rights were violated.
🔐 Can DUI charges in Florida be reduced or dismissed?
Absolutely. DUI charges can be reduced to reckless driving, or dismissed altogether if the stop, arrest, or testing was flawed. That’s why early legal representation is critical.