Are you being charged with a DUI for a second time in Lakeland, FL? Florida takes repeat DUI offenses seriously, and the consequences are now significantly higher. Jail time, steep fines, and long-term license suspensions are all on the table for defendants.
If you have already gone through this process once, you know how confusing the legal system can be. At Grajek Criminal Defense Attorneys, our Lakeland 2nd-time DUI attorneys can walk you through the legal process. We have 25+ years of experience helping people.
Contact our law office at (863) 688-4606 to schedule a confidential case evaluation.
Why Choose Grajek Criminal Defense Attorneys, to Help Me With a 2nd-Time DUI in Lakeland, FL?
Facing a second DUI arrest in Lakeland, Florida, can be overwhelming. A repeat charge puts your freedom, finances, and future at significant risk. You may wonder who you can trust for support in this difficult time.
Many turn to our Lakeland DUI lawyers for the following reasons.
- Over 25 years of experience standing up for people accused of crimes in Florida
- Recognition from The National Trial Lawyers “Top 100 Trial Lawyers” and membership in the DUI Defense Lawyers Association
- Our firm has dozens of five-star reviews on Google.
It is very difficult to face these consequences on your own. Courts are tough, and DUI penalties get steeper with a second arrest.
Contact Grajek, Attorney At Law, to schedule a confidential consultation with a Lakeland criminal defense lawyer.
Overview of 2nd-Time DUIs in Florida
If you are caught driving in Florida with a blood or breath alcohol level of 0.08 or higher, or you show signs of being impaired, even if your levels are slightly below that, you may face charges for driving under the influence. If you’ve already had a DUI conviction in the past five years, another arrest will count as a second offense and lead to more severe penalties.
However, if your previous conviction was more than five years ago, Florida treats your case as if it were a first offense. This difference is crucial because it changes the severity of the penalties.
What Are the Penalties for a 2nd-Time DUI in Lakeland, Florida?
If you are arrested for a second DUI in Lakeland, Florida, the legal system takes it seriously. The state sets higher penalties when you already have a DUI on your record. Here’s what you can expect.
Jail Time
For a second-time DUI, Florida law requires you to serve at least 10 days in jail, with the possibility of up to nine months. If your blood alcohol content (BAC) was 0.15% or higher, or you had a minor in the car, or if the DUI resulted in a crash with minor injury or property damage, the court can order up to 12 months behind bars.
Fines
You typically face fines between $1,000 and $2,000 for a second DUI in Florida. However, if your BAC was over 0.15%, or if someone under 18 was with you, it increases to $2,000 to $4,000.
Vehicle Impoundment/Immobilization
A second DUI means you’ll lose access to your primary car for at least 30 days. The law does not let the time your vehicle is confiscated overlap with your jail stay.
Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
If you want to drive after your suspension, state law requires an ignition interlock device to be installed on any car you own or lease for at least one year.
License Revocation
The state will revoke your Florida license for at least five years. After serving one year, some individuals may be eligible to request a hardship license, but they must meet strict requirements.
Probation and DUI School
A second-offense DUI carries up to one year of probation, with mandatory check-ins each month. You also need to complete a full DUI program. This means taking a substance abuse class and doing a psychosocial review to better understand risks related to alcohol and driving.
Second DUIs get harsh treatment in Florida, and the direct impact lasts for years. If you’re facing charges or have questions after an arrest, make sure you speak with a lawyer right away.
What Defenses Can Be Raised if I’m Arrested for a 2nd-Time DUI?
If you’re facing a second DUI arrest, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. There are several defenses criminal defense lawyers use in these cases, including:
- Challenging the Stop: If police did not have a valid reason to pull you over, any evidence collected as a result may be thrown out.
- Questioning the Breath or Blood Test: Test results can be incorrect if the machine wasn’t properly maintained, operated correctly, or if testing rules weren’t followed.
- No Driving: If the police cannot prove you were actually driving or in control of the vehicle, you can’t be convicted of DUI. This could happen if an accident occurs and the police arrive after everyone has already exited the vehicle.
These are just a few examples of possible defenses. If you’re facing DUI charges, your lawyer will help you determine the best strategy to use.
If you’re facing DUI charges, you don’t have to go through it alone. Our experienced Lakeland 2nd-time DUI lawyers can look for details in your case that might change the outcome, uncover defenses you may not know about, and help you try to lessen the impact on your life. We can represent you inside and outside of the courtroom.
Call Grajek Criminal Defense Attorneys to schedule a consultation.