Is a first DUI conviction considered a criminal misdemeanor?
Get Legal Help Today
Compare Quotes From Top Companies and Save
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
Is a first DUI conviction considered a criminal misdemeanor?
Asked on May 9, 2013 under Criminal Law, Florida
Answers:
Mitchell Goldman / Law Offices of Cantwell and Goldman, P.A.
Answered 10 years ago | Contributor
A first time DUI conviction is a 2nd degree misdemeanor in the state of Florida, and it is punishable by up to 180 days in jail. Often, these cases can be resolved before reaching the trial stage. I would highly recommend that you seek assistance from an attorney for this matter in order to resolve it properly.
-Jay (Cantwell & Goldman, P.A.)
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 10 years ago | Contributor
My research suggests that driving under the influence (of either alcohol or drugs) is considered to be a misdemeanor offense in the state of FL.
Additionally, a certain amount of alcohol is permitted for those 21 years old; the legal limit is a BAC of .08%. For a first offense, illegal levels of intoxication are divided into breath or blood alcohol limits above .08% and those above 1.5%. There is a zero tolerance policy for those drivers who are under 21 years of age.
Since a criminal ffense is involved, you really should consult with an experienced DUI attorney in the area in which your arrest took place. Many times a DUI charge can be pled down or even dismissed.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: The Answer(s) provided above are for general information only. The attorney providing the answer was not serving as the attorney for the person submitting the question or in any attorney-client relationship with such person. Laws may vary from state to state, and sometimes change. Tiny variations in the facts, or a fact not set forth in a question, often can change a legal outcome or an attorney's conclusion. Although AttorneyPages.com has verified the attorney was admitted to practice law in at least one jurisdiction, he or she may not be authorized to practice law in the jurisdiction referred to in the question, nor is he or she necessarily experienced in the area of the law involved. Unlike the information in the Answer(s) above, upon which you should NOT rely, for personal advice you can rely upon we suggest you retain an attorney to represent you.