Felony DUI Lawyer in Orlando, Florida

Facing a felony DUI charge in Florida is a serious matter that can have profound implications on your future. Felony DUI charges are more severe than misdemeanor DUI charges and can result from repeated offenses, causing serious injury, or driving with a high BAC. If you or a loved one is charged with a felony DUI, understanding the legal repercussions and obtaining experienced legal counsel is critical. A knowledgeable DUI defense attorney can provide the assistance and representation you need to navigate these serious charges. 

At Orlando Defense, our team is dedicated to delivering aggressive and effective representation to defend your rights and secure the best possible outcome. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options. 

Our services extend across Orange and Osceola County, Florida, including lively locales such as Orlando, Winter Park, and Kissimmee. We are also available in cities like Maitland, Ocoee, and St. Cloud. From Bay Lake to Apopka and even Zellwood, you can count on us for professional legal assistance with your felony DUI case. 

What Constitutes a Felony DUI in Florida?

In Florida, a DUI may be elevated to a felony under several circumstances, including: 

• Third or Subsequent DUI Offenses: If you are charged with a third DUI within 10 years, or a fourth or subsequent DUI at any time, it will be classified as a felony. 

• Serious Injury: Causing serious bodily injury to another person while driving under the influence will result in felony charges. 

• DUI Manslaughter: If your DUI causes the death of another individual, it is classified as DUI manslaughter, a felony offense.  

Consequences of a Felony DUI

The consequences of a felony DUI in Florida are severe and can have lasting impacts on multiple areas of your life. Potential outcomes include: 

Administrative Penalties

• Driver’s License Revocation: A felony DUI conviction can lead to a lengthy revocation of your driver’s license, often up to 10 years or even permanently. 

• Fines: Penalties can include substantial fines, potentially ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the specifics of the case. 

• Probation: Felony DUI convictions may result in extended probation periods with stringent conditions. 

Criminal Penalties

• Prison Time: Felony DUI convictions can result in significant prison sentences. For example, DUI causing serious injury may result in up to 5 years in prison, while DUI manslaughter can result in up to 15 years or more. 

• Permanent Criminal Record: A felony conviction will remain on your criminal record, severely impacting your future employment prospects, educational opportunities, and more. 

Long-Term Impact

• Employment: A felony DUI can limit job opportunities, as many employers perform background checks and may be hesitant to hire individuals with felony convictions. 

• Housing: Securing housing can become more difficult, as some landlords may be unwilling to rent to individuals with felony records. 

• Personal Relationships: A felony DUI can strain personal relationships and impact your reputation within your community.

Do I Need a Lawyer for a Felony DUI?

Absolutely. Engaging an experienced DUI defense lawyer is essential when facing felony DUI charges. The gravity of the potential penalties and long-term consequences necessitates expert legal representation to protect your rights and advocate on your behalf. 

A qualified DUI lawyer will: 

• Analyze the details of your arrest and the evidence presented against you. 

• Identify and challenge any procedural missteps or violations of your constitutional rights. 

• Work to negotiate reduced charges or penalties where possible. 

• Provide robust representation in court, striving for a favorable outcome. 

Felony DUI FAQ

What should I do if I’m arrested for a felony DUI in Florida? 

If you’re arrested for a felony DUI, contact an experienced DUI defense attorney immediately. They can guide you through every step of the legal process, represent you in court, and develop a solid defense strategy. 

Can a felony DUI charge be reduced to a misdemeanor? 

In some cases, an experienced DUI defense attorney may be able to negotiate a reduction of a felony DUI charge to a misdemeanor, depending on the circumstances of the case and the strength of the evidence. 

What defenses might be used in a felony DUI case? 

Possible defenses for a felony DUI charge may include disputing the accuracy of BAC results, challenging the legality of the traffic stop, and uncovering any procedural errors by law enforcement. An experienced DUI defense lawyer will evaluate all potential defenses to build a strong case. 

How can a DUI conviction affect my future? 

A felony DUI conviction can have far-reaching impacts on your future, including limitations on employment, housing, and educational opportunities, in addition to potential restrictions on personal and professional licenses.