Driving Under the Influence (DUI) charges in Florida are serious criminal offenses that can carry life-changing consequences. A DUI conviction may affect your freedom, driver’s license, employment opportunities, professional reputation, and future.
If you have been arrested for DUI in Seminole County, obtaining experienced legal representation as early as possible is critical.
At Z. Hernandez Law, Attorney Zarina Hernandez provides strategic and aggressive DUI defense representation for clients throughout Central Florida. Every case is carefully reviewed to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence and protect the client’s rights at every stage of the process.
Florida DUI Laws
Under Florida Statute § 316.193, a person may be charged with DUI if they are operating or in actual physical control of a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, controlled substances, or chemical substances.
In Florida, a driver is considered legally impaired when their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is:
- 0.08% or higher for drivers over 21
- 0.02% or higher for drivers under 21 under Florida’s zero-tolerance laws
Certain circumstances may result in enhanced penalties, including:
- A BAC of 0.15% or higher
- Having a minor passenger in the vehicle
- Prior DUI convictions
- DUI accidents involving injury or property damage
A Seminole County DUI attorney can evaluate the details of the arrest and explain the potential penalties and defense options available in your case.
Penalties for a DUI Conviction in Florida
The consequences of a DUI conviction depend on factors such as prior convictions, BAC level, and whether aggravating circumstances were involved.
Possible penalties for a first or second DUI conviction may include:
- Significant fines and court costs
- Jail or probation
- Driver’s license suspension or revocation
- Mandatory DUI school or substance abuse treatment
- Installation of an ignition interlock device
- Vehicle impoundment
- Community service requirements
Even a first-time DUI conviction can have lasting consequences that extend far beyond the courtroom.
Multiple DUI Offenses
Florida courts impose substantially harsher penalties for repeat DUI convictions.
A third DUI offense may result in:
- Mandatory jail or prison time
- Extended driver’s license revocation
- Lengthy probation
- Long-term ignition interlock requirements
- Mandatory substance abuse treatment
In some circumstances, repeat DUI charges may be prosecuted as felony offenses.
Felony DUI Charges
Certain DUI-related offenses may be charged as felonies under Florida law, including:
- Multiple DUI convictions within a specified timeframe
- DUI causing serious bodily injury
- DUI manslaughter
- Leaving the scene of a DUI accident
Felony DUI convictions can expose a person to substantial prison sentences, large financial penalties, and permanent criminal records.
At Z. Hernandez Law, Attorney Hernandez carefully reviews:
- The legality of the traffic stop
- Field sobriety testing procedures
- Breathalyzer calibration and maintenance records
- Police reports and body camera footage
- Constitutional violations and procedural errors
These issues may significantly affect the strength of the prosecution’s case.
Underage DUI Defense
Florida maintains strict zero-tolerance laws for drivers under 21. A BAC of 0.02% or greater may lead to:
- Driver’s license suspension
- Mandatory alcohol education programs
- Substance abuse evaluation and treatment
- Additional penalties depending on the circumstances
An experienced Seminole County DUI defense lawyer can help protect the rights and future opportunities of younger drivers facing these allegations.
Speak With a Seminole County DUI Defense Lawyer
DUI charges should never be taken lightly. Early legal intervention may significantly improve your ability to protect your license, reputation, and future.
Z. Hernandez Law represents clients throughout Seminole County facing misdemeanor and felony DUI allegations. Attorney Zarina Hernandez provides strategic, client-focused criminal defense designed to protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome under the circumstances.
Schedule a confidential case evaluation to discuss your case and legal defense options.
