Have you been arrested for felony DUI in Polk County, Florida? A conviction can lead to years in prison, thousands of dollars in fines, and the loss of your driving privileges. The consequences are severe, but you still have time to fight back with help from an experienced criminal defense lawyer.
Thomas C. Grajek, Attorney at Law, has protected the rights of people accused of DUI and other serious crimes across Florida for over 30 years. Our Polk County criminal defense attorney has extensive experience and is ready to support your case.
From investigating the evidence against you to challenging blood or breath test results, we will take on an aggressive approach to your defense. Contact our Polk County felony DUI attorney at (863) 688-4606 today to get started.
How Thomas C. Grajek, Attorney at Law, Can Help if You’re Facing a Felony DUI in Polk County, Florida
When you are charged with a felony DUI in Polk County, FL, prosecutors will work especially hard to secure a conviction. However, it’s important to remember that they must still prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. You’re innocent until proven guilty, and our criminal defense attorney will stop at nothing to have your charges dismissed if at all possible.
If you hire our Polk County criminal defense lawyer, we can:
- Conduct a full investigation into the facts and circumstances of your case
- Analyze breath, blood, and urine test procedures to identify errors or contamination
- File motions to suppress any evidence obtained through unlawful means
- Review police reports and other documentation for inconsistencies
- Identify witnesses who can testify on your behalf
- Negotiate for alternative sentencing programs when possible
- Represent you at every court appearance and prepare for trial if necessary
With decades of courtroom experience, we know the strategies that work in DUI cases. Contact our Polk County felony DUI attorney today to schedule a consultation.
What Makes a DUI a Felony in Florida?
In Florida, most DUI cases are misdemeanors, but certain aggravating factors can elevate the charge to a felony.
These include the following:
- Multiple prior DUI convictions: A third DUI within 10 years of a prior conviction, or any fourth DUI, is charged as a felony.
- DUI with serious bodily injury: Causing serious injury to another person while driving under the influence is a third-degree felony.
- DUI manslaughter: Causing the death of another person or an unborn child while impaired is a second-degree felony, or a first-degree felony if you leave the scene.
Knowing the exact reason your DUI has been charged as a felony is critical, as this will shape both the potential penalties you face and the defense strategy your lawyer develops.
Potential Penalties for a Felony DUI Conviction in Polk County
The penalties for a felony DUI conviction in Florida depend on many factors, such as the specific offense you’ve been charged with and your criminal history (if applicable).
They can include:
- Third-degree felony: Up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine
- Second-degree felony: Up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine
- First-degree felony: Up to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 fine
In addition to prison and fines, you may also face administrative penalties, such as:
- Mandatory driver’s license revocation for several years or permanently
- Installation of an ignition interlock device on your vehicle
- Completion of DUI school and substance abuse treatment
- Lengthy probation terms and community service
These penalties can be life-changing, potentially impacting your freedom for at least the foreseeable future. That’s why acting quickly and involving a defense attorney as early as possible is so important.
Possible Defenses You Can Raise in Response to Florida Felony DUI Charges
The right defense strategy ultimately depends on the facts of your case, but common approaches include:
- Illegal traffic stop: If law enforcement stopped you without reasonable suspicion, the stop may be challenged in court.
- Faulty chemical testing: Breath and blood tests must be conducted according to strict protocols; mistakes can lead to unreliable results.
- Improper field sobriety tests: Poor instructions, unsafe conditions, or physical limitations can cause these tests to be inaccurate.
- Lack of probable cause for arrest: Police must have valid grounds before placing you under arrest.
- Evidence of no impairment: Witnesses, surveillance video, or other evidence may show you were not impaired at the time of driving.
By raising doubts about the prosecution’s evidence, we can work to have your charges reduced or even dismissed outright.
Contact Our Polk County Felony DUI Attorney to Schedule an Initial Consultation Today
A felony DUI conviction in Polk County, Florida, can lead to years in prison on top of a number of other serious consequences. However, you still have time to fight back against the prosecution with help from our experienced Polk County felony DUI lawyer.
Thomas C. Grajek, Attorney at Law, has over 25 years of experience defending clients in Polk County and throughout the state. We will fight to protect your rights throughout the entire process and will vigorously defend you at trial if necessary.
Call today to schedule a consultation.