Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Florida is a serious offense with significant legal consequences. Florida law defines DUI as operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs to the extent that normal faculties are impaired or having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or higher. The severity of penalties increases with the number of offenses and aggravating factors such as a high BAC or minors in the vehicle.
First-Time Offenders
For first-time offenders, fines range from $500 to $2,000, with higher penalties for a BAC of .15% or more or if there’s a minor in the vehicle. Mandatory community service, probation, and possible imprisonment are part of the penalties, along with a potential vehicle impoundment.
License Revocation
License revocation periods vary significantly based on the offense count and the presence of aggravating factors. For instance, a first offense without bodily injury might result in a revocation from 180 days to one year, while more severe offenses can lead to permanent revocation under certain conditions.
Aggravated DUI and Repeat Offenders
Aggravated DUI involving a minor in the vehicle or a BAC of .15% or higher results in harsher penalties, including higher fines and longer jail time. Repeat offenders face escalating penalties, with a third offense within ten years the second DUI leading to a minimum of 30 days in jail, 90 days of vehicle impoundment, and a minimum ten-year license revocation.
Administrative and Criminal Penalties
Florida imposes administrative and criminal penalties for DUI offenses, including driver’s license suspension, fines, jail time, vehicle impoundment, and the requirement to install an ignition interlock device (IID) on vehicles.
Legal Representation
Given the complexity of DUI laws and the severe implications of a DUI charge, seeking legal representation is crucial. An experienced DUI attorney can guide you in navigating the legal system, potentially mitigating the consequences or challenging the charges based on the specifics of your case.
How Alers Law Firm Can Help
At Alers Law Firm, we understand the stress and uncertainty of a DUI charge. Our experienced DUI defense team is dedicated to providing robust legal representation for those facing DUI charges in Orlando, Florida. We will guide you through the legal process, from understanding your charges and potential penalties to exploring defense strategies and representing you in court.
Whether it’s negotiating for reduced penalties, challenging evidence, our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. If you or a loved one is facing a DUI charge in Orlando, don’t navigate the legal system alone. Contact Alers Law Firm for a consultation, and let us help you through this challenging time.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. DUI laws are subject to change, and the specifics of your case may lead to different outcomes.

Attorney Chavelys Y. Alers was born and raised in Puerto Rico. She specifically grew up in the towns of Vega Baja and Dorado. Attorney Alers is bilingual, as she is fluent in both English and Spanish. Two decades ago, Attorney Alers migrated from Puerto Rico to the mainland United States, Central Florida. Learn more here.