Can a DUI Be Charged as a Felony?

A DUI is a serious legal matter regardless of the circumstances. But did you know that in some cases, a DUI can actually result in felony charges? Learn the difference between regular and felony DUIs here, and contact a Clearwater criminal defense attorney at Tinny, Meyer & Piccarreto, P.A. for all your legal defense needs.

What Constitutes a Felony DUI

In the state of Florida, a charge of DUI, or “driving under the influence,” is usually a misdemeanor. However, a DUI can become a felony if it is not the driver’s first offense, or if the circumstances surrounding the incident are particularly severe.

A DUI can be charged as a felony in cases where:

  • It is the driver’s third offense within a 10-year period: In cases where a driver receives 3 DUIs within the span of 10 years, they may be charged with a felony, carrying up to $5,000 in fines, a sentence of up to 5 years’ probation or jail time in a state prison, and driver’s license revocation for a minimum of 10 years.
  • It is the driver’s fourth offense within a 10-year period: In cases where a driver receives 4 DUIs within the span of 10 years, they may be charged with a felony, carrying up to $5,000 in fines, a sentence of up to 5 years’ probation or jail time in a state prison, and permanent license revocation.
  • The DUI resulted in serious bodily injury: DUIs that cause serious bodily injury to another person may result in a felony charge, carrying fines up to $5,000, a sentence of up to 5 years’ probation or jail time in a state prison, possible restitution to any and all victims, and license revocation lasting anywhere between 3 years and permanently.
  • The DUI resulted in a Manslaughter charge: DUIs that result in a felony manslaughter charge may carry a fine up to $10,000, a sentence of up to 15 years in a state prison, and license revocation lasting anywhere between 3 years and permanently.
  • The DUI resulted in a Manslaughter with Leaving the Scene charge: DUIs that result in a charge of felony manslaughter with leaving the scene may carry a fine up to $10,000, a sentence of up to 30 years in a state prison, as well as mandatory permanent license revocation.

Fight Your DUI Charge, Hire Tinny, Meyer & Piccarreto, P.A. Today

Just because you have been charged with a DUI or even a felony DUI does not mean you must pay extensive fees and serve jail time. With the experienced criminal defense lawyers at Tinny, Meyer & Piccarreto, P.A., you may be able to go on living your life with minimal penalties, and put this unfortunate incident in your rearview. With over 35 years of experience, our team of Clearwater criminal defense professionals believe that every client deserves a fair shot in court, regardless of the circumstances. Don’t let the potential consequences of a DUI ruin your life, call Tinny, Meyer & Piccarreto, P.A today.

Dial (727) 245-9009 to speak with an attorney, or fill out our contact form online to schedule a consultation.

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