St. Johns County Multiple DUI Attorney

Experienced Legal Defense for Repeat DUI Offenses in Florida

Being charged with driving under the influence (DUI) is always serious, but when it happens more than once, the legal and personal consequences can escalate dramatically. Florida courts and prosecutors take multiple DUI offenses very seriously, imposing severe penalties that can threaten your freedom, finances, and future. If you are facing a second, third, or subsequent DUI charge in St. Johns County, you need a skilled and experienced defense attorney who understands the complexities of Florida DUI law and can fight to protect your rights.

At First Coast Criminal Defense, we have extensive experience defending clients accused of repeat DUI offenses across St. Johns County and surrounding areas. Our legal team combines deep knowledge of DUI law with a personalized defense approach designed to minimize penalties and help you move forward with your life.

Call (904) 474-3115 for personal support and to discuss your situation with a trusted multiple DUI lawyer in St. Johns County.

Understanding Multiple DUI Charges in Florida

Florida law imposes progressively harsher punishments for each subsequent DUI conviction within specific “look-back” periods. The look-back period determines whether a prior conviction will count against you for sentencing purposes.

• Second DUI Offense: If your second offense occurs within five years of your first, you face a mandatory minimum of 10 days in jail, up to nine months of imprisonment, fines between $1,000 and $2,000, and at least five years of driver’s license revocation. Aggravating factors—such as a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.15% or higher, an accident involving injury, or having a child in the vehicle—can increase penalties to as much as five years in prison. You will also likely face vehicle impoundment and mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device (IID).
• Third DUI Offense: If a third DUI occurs within 10 years of a prior conviction, it is charged as a felony in Florida. Penalties include up to one year or more of imprisonment, fines between $2,000 and $5,000, license revocation of up to 10 years, a two-year IID requirement, and vehicle impoundment for 90 days or longer.
• Fourth or Subsequent Offense: A fourth DUI is always a felony, regardless of when prior convictions occurred. Convictions carry permanent license revocation and up to five years in prison.

In addition to these criminal penalties, repeat DUI convictions can trigger mandatory substance abuse evaluations, community service requirements, and significant increases in auto insurance premiums. The long-term social and professional consequences of a multiple DUI conviction can also be devastating.

How a Multiple DUI Attorney Can Help

A multiple DUI charge in Florida can be complex, involving not only state DUI laws but also administrative penalties imposed by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). A skilled St. Johns County multiple DUI attorney can make a substantial difference in the outcome of your case by:

• Challenging the Traffic Stop: If law enforcement did not have probable cause to stop you, evidence obtained during the stop—such as breath or blood test results—may be suppressed.
• Questioning Test Accuracy: Breathalyzer and field sobriety tests are not infallible. We investigate whether proper procedures were followed and whether equipment was calibrated and maintained correctly.
• Identifying Procedural Errors: Mistakes in the arrest process, such as violations of your Miranda rights, can lead to the dismissal of charges or reduction in penalties.
• Negotiating Alternative Sentencing: Depending on your record and case facts, we may negotiate alternatives like DUI school, house arrest, or community service to reduce jail time or fines.

At First Coast Criminal Defense, we know how to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and use them to your advantage. Our proactive approach is designed to protect your record, your license, and your future.

Why Choose First Coast Criminal Defense?

Clients throughout St. Johns County trust our firm for one simple reason—results. We dedicate our practice exclusively to criminal defense, with a particular focus on DUI cases, including those involving repeat or aggravated offenses. This means we stay at the forefront of Florida’s evolving DUI laws and use the most current defense strategies available.

Our firm offers:

• Comprehensive Case Evaluations: We thoroughly examine every detail of your arrest, prior convictions, and testing procedures to identify defense opportunities.
• Local Insight: Our deep familiarity with St. Johns County courts, judges, and prosecutors helps us anticipate how your case may be handled and tailor our strategy accordingly.
• Client-Centered Representation: We maintain open communication throughout your case, ensuring you understand your options and feel supported at every stage.
• Aggressive Advocacy: Whether negotiating for reduced penalties or taking your case to trial, we are relentless in protecting your rights and minimizing the impact of a DUI charge on your life.

Contact a St. Johns County Multiple DUI Attorney Today

If you’ve been charged with a second, third, or subsequent DUI offense in St. Johns County, don’t wait to seek legal help. The consequences of a repeat DUI conviction are severe, but with experienced representation, you may be able to avoid the harshest penalties and protect your future. We are here to stand by your side and fight for the best possible outcome in your multiple DUI case.

Call First Coast Criminal Defense at (904) 474-3115 or reach out online to schedule your free and confidential case evaluation today.

FAQs

What penalties can result from a second or third DUI in Florida?

Repeat DUI convictions often result in higher fines, increased jail time, longer license suspensions, and court-ordered requirements like ignition interlock devices. Penalties increase with each new conviction and depend on how much time has passed since your last offense.

Can prior DUIs from other states affect my case in St. Johns County?

Yes. Florida law allows prosecutors to consider prior DUI convictions from other states when determining penalties. Past out-of-state convictions often lead to enhanced charges and stricter sentencing.

Will I lose my license immediately after an arrest?

You may face an immediate administrative suspension from the DHSMV. You often have a short window to request a hearing—missing this deadline can make it harder to keep driving while your case proceeds.

Do local judges or prosecutors treat multiple DUIs differently?

Prosecutors in St. Johns County typically pursue repeat offense DUI cases more aggressively. Judges consider community impact and your history when deciding on possible penalties and conditions.

How quickly should I reach out for legal help after a DUI arrest?

Acting fast helps you protect your rights, respond to DMV deadlines, and prepare a defense strategy tailored to your case. Early advice can make a difference in license hearings and courtroom outcomes.