First Offense DUI Attorney in Fruit Cove

Understanding First Offense DUI Charges in Fruit Cove

A first offense DUI in Florida is classified as a misdemeanor and brings serious penalties that can extend well beyond the initial court date. The case is typically processed in the St. Johns County court system, regardless of whether the arresting agency is the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Highway Patrol, or another local authority.

Penalties for First Offense DUI

• Fines: Ranging from $500 to $1,000. If the blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.15% or higher or a minor was in the vehicle, fines increase to $1,000–$2,000.
• Jail Time: Up to 6 months for a standard first offense, or up to 9 months if BAC is 0.15%+ or a minor was present. 
• License Suspension: Suspension is required and ranges from 180 days (6 months) to one year.
• Probation: Mandatory, not to exceed one year total (including incarceration), and often includes reporting requirements.
• Community Service: At least 50 hours, or an extra $10 fine per hour of service not performed.
• Vehicle Impoundment: Typically for 10 days, unless the defendant's family has no other transportation.
• DUI School & Substance Abuse Evaluation: Completion of a state-approved DUI course is mandatory, along with substance abuse evaluation and any recommended treatment.
• Hardship License: After a mandatory suspension period, application for a hardship/restricted license is possible if DUI school is completed.

Importance of Local Legal Representation

Having a defense attorney experienced in St. Johns County and the intricacies of Florida DUI law is highly beneficial. Our team can challenge the legality of the stop, the accuracy of tests, and law enforcement procedures, potentially reducing or dismissing charges in some cases. Early legal intervention may also enable diversion programs or plea arrangements for some first-time offenders, depending on prosecutorial policies.

Our DUI Defense Process

Facing DUI charges for the first time is daunting. As your defense team, we'll guide you through every stage. 

• Immediate case review: We rapidly evaluate the arrest details and highlight critical deadlines, including the 10-day window to request a DMV administrative hearing to preserve your license.
• Custom defense preparation: We investigate every fact—roadside procedures, evidence collection, and testing—using our prosecutorial background to recognize weaknesses in the case against you, including potential issues common in St. Johns County stops.
• Consistent communication: You get direct, practical updates on legal changes, case progress, and court appearances.
• Determined court representation: Our courtroom advocacy is assertive yet focused on securing the least disruptive outcome, safeguarding your record, insurance, and job prospects with local insight.
• Pursuing all legal alternatives: For many first-time offenders, our attorneys explore eligibility for diversion programs, reduced charges, or alternative sentencing to help preserve your future and restore your life.