Facing a Third DUI in Florida? Here’s What You Need to Know

Being charged with a third DUI in Florida is no small matter. This is serious business, and the consequences can be life-altering. If you’re reading this, you already know that facing a third DUI is not like the first or second time. The penalties are harsher, the stakes are higher, and the impact on your future could be devastating. But don’t panic—you’re not alone in this.

At Safir Injury & Criminal Defense Law, we know how overwhelming it can be to face a third DUI charge. Our experienced St. Petersburg DUI defense attorneys have a track record of successfully defending clients against even the toughest charges. We’re here to fight for you every step of the way.

Understanding Florida’s DUI Laws

Florida has some of the toughest DUI laws in the country, and they get even tougher for repeat offenders. A third DUI conviction within 10 years can be elevated to a third-degree felony, which brings significantly steeper penalties than previous misdemeanors.

Here’s what you’re up against if convicted of a third DUI within 10 years:

• Mandatory Jail Time: A minimum of 30 days in jail, with the possibility of up to five years in prison if your case is charged as a felony.
• Fines: These range from $2,000 to $5,000, with no less than $4,000 if your BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) was over .15%.
• Ignition Interlock Device: You’ll be required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle for at least two years, which requires you to pass a breathalyzer test before your car will start.
• License Revocation: Your driver’s license could be revoked for up to 10 years, with no eligibility for hardship reinstatement for two years. This means no driving at all—not even for work or emergencies.

The Impact of Aggravating Factors

The penalties for a third DUI can get even worse if certain aggravating factors are present. These circumstances can elevate your charge and result in harsher penalties:

• High BAC: If your BAC was over 0.15%, you’ll face enhanced penalties, including longer jail time and heftier fines.
• Minor in the Vehicle: Having a child under 18 in the car during the DUI offense is considered a major aggravating factor. This could lead to additional charges and even stricter sentencing.
• Property Damage or Injury: If your impaired driving caused property damage or injured someone, you could face additional charges, like reckless driving or vehicular assault, adding more weight to your case.

Why You Need an Experienced Lawyer for Your Third DUI

This isn’t the time to go it alone or take chances. With a third DUI charge, you need a strong defense strategy and an experienced attorney who understands the ins and outs of Florida’s DUI laws. Here’s why choosing Safir Injury & Criminal Defense Law is the right move:

• Deep DUI Defense Experience: Our St. Petersburg DUI defense attorneys have extensive experience handling third (and even fourth or more) DUI offenses. We know Florida DUI laws inside and out, and we’re up-to-date on all the latest defense strategies through memberships in the National College for DUI Defense and the DUI Defense Lawyer’s Association. 
• Aggressive Defense Strategies: We don’t just go through the motions. Our team will dig deep into the details of your case—reviewing police reports, examining how breath or field sobriety tests were conducted, and looking for any flaws in the prosecution’s case. We’ll use every tool at our disposal to reduce or even dismiss your charges.
• Cutting-Edge Knowledge: Mr. Safir is a member of task forces on trial advocacy and breath-testing devices with the National College for DUI Defense, meaning we know exactly how to challenge the evidence being used against you. Breathalyzer tests, for instance, can be flawed, and we know how to spot inconsistencies that could throw their results into question. Mr. Safir is also one of a handful of attorneys in the state of Florida to have completed the extensive hands-on courses at Axion Labs in Chicago, Illinois (having completed coursework in forensic chromatography (how blood test results are interpreted), forensic drug analysis, and the science of Drug DUI’s). Finally, he has the same certifications as the police obtain from the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) in DWI Detection and Standardized Field Sobriety Testing as well as Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement (ARIDE).
• Understanding and Compassion: We get it—a third DUI charge is more than just a legal problem. It’s an emotional and personal one, too. We treat our clients with respect and understanding, providing not just legal defense, but also the emotional support you need during this challenging time.

Protect Your Future with Safir Injury & Criminal Defense Law

A third DUI conviction isn’t just about paying fines and serving time—it can change the course of your life. From jeopardizing your job to losing your license for years, the fallout can be devastating. But here’s the thing: It’s not over yet. With the right legal team, there’s still hope to turn things around.

At Safir Injury & Criminal Defense Law, we understand the gravity of your situation, and we’re ready to fight aggressively on your behalf. Whether we’re negotiating with the prosecutor for a reduced charge, challenging the evidence in court, or advocating for alternative sentencing options, we’ll do everything in our power to protect your rights and your future.

If you or a loved one is facing a third DUI charge in Florida, don’t wait. Contact Safir Injury & Criminal Defense Law today. Let’s start building a defense that gives you the best possible chance of avoiding the harshest penalties and moving forward with your life.

Your future is on the line—and we’re here to protect it.