Arrested for a DUI? Facing a DUI conviction? Here’s some straight talk from a West Palm Beach DUI Lawyer.
Being arrested because of a DUI can be devastating.
First and foremost, people could be injured or killed – including the drunk driver, their passengers, other drivers and pedestrians.
It’s not uncommon for injuries and fatalities to occur when someone steps behind the wheel of a vehicle after too many drinks. In 2023, the most recent full year reported by the NHTSA, there were approximately 5,081 alcohol-only, drunk driving-related crashes in Florida. There were over 3,048 injuries and 331 fatalities. That’s an astounding amount of destruction from acts that could be avoided.
But even for accident-free DUI’s, the arrest and aftermath of the arrest can be life-changing.
Records of the DUI will follow drivers around for years to come. Hiring an attorney will cost money. And drivers will face serious consequences as it relates to possible fines, jail time and suspended licenses.
It’s important to understand the potential penalties you may face if convicted of a DUI in the state of Florida.
Some common DUI penalties in Florida include:
- Jail Time
- Fines
- License suspension
- Probation
- Community service
- Ignition interlock device installation
There are also other consequences that may seem less serious, but may also impact a driver’s life in a negative way.
People arrested for drunk driving will be subject to a permanent criminal record and may be impacted by background checks in the future.
Does a DUI arrest lead to a criminal record?
Yes, in Florida, a DUI conviction will result in a permanent criminal record. Florida law is stringent regarding DUI offenses, and a conviction will stay on your record for 75 years, effectively making it a lifelong record.
This criminal record can affect future employment opportunities, professional licensing and educational prospects.
This means that even after you have served any penalties such as fines, community service, or jail time, the conviction will continue to show up on background checks conducted by employers, landlords, and other entities.
Will my DUI show up on background checks?
Quite possibly. Because of a DUI’s long-term presence, potential employers, landlords and educational institutions may find a DUI on your records, and view them unfavorably.
This may impact your chances in various areas of life, including:
- Employment background checks
- Housing background checks
- Insurance and financial background checks
Impact on your current employment and job searches:
Many employers conduct background checks as part of promotions and internal hires, the hiring process for a new job and on job applications. A DUI conviction can appear on these checks, potentially affecting your employment opportunities.
Certain professions, especially those requiring professional and state licenses (e.g., healthcare, legal, teaching), may be particularly impacted by a DUI on your record.
For some, a DUI conviction can lead to the permanent revocation of a professional license in Florida. This is particularly true for professions that require a high level of trust and responsibility, such as healthcare providers and legal professionals.
Impact on applying for housing:
As part of the rental application process, landlords often perform background checks on potential tenants. A DUI conviction can influence a landlord’s decision to rent to you.
Impact on insurance reviews and financial applications:
DUI conviction can lead to significantly higher car insurance rates and may also affect your eligibility for certain types of insurance.
Some lenders may view a DUI conviction negatively, which could impact loan approvals or credit decisions.
So, retaining an experienced DUI lawyer is important then?
Yes. Given the serious nature of DUI charges, it is highly advisable to seek legal representation from an experienced DUI attorney. Consulting with an experienced DUI attorney can help you understand your options.They can help navigate the legal system, negotiate plea deals, and potentially reduce charges or penalties.
An experienced attorney is there to help reduce fines and jail time. Spending time in jail after a DUI is what most people who have been charged with a DUI fear most.
And, for most people, it’s a motivating factor for hiring a good criminal defense attorney.
Yes, hiring an attorney if you get a DUI is highly recommended. An experienced DUI attorney can help you understand the legal process, potentially reduce charges or penalties, and protect your rights throughout the case. They can also provide valuable guidance on navigating the administrative aspects, such as license suspensions and DMV hearings.
Understanding these consequences can help you prepare for how a DUI conviction might affect various aspects of your life.
Get help after a DUI arrest in West Palm Beach.
If you were charged with a DUI in West Palm Beach, please schedule a free consultation with The Pakett Law Group. You can call 561-318-0531 or email us here.
The Pakett Law Group, PA is committed to providing our clients with the highest quality representation. With over a decade of legal experience, West Palm Beach criminal defense lawyer Brian T. Pakett and his team of West Palm Beach criminal lawyers possess a comprehensive understanding of Florida criminal law – and that experience can greatly benefit you.