Jacksonville DUI Lawyer

Charged With Driving Under the Influence in Florida?

What You Need to Know About Florida DUI Laws

What Counts as DUI in Florida

Under Florida law, you can be charged with DUI if you are driving or in actual physical control of a vehicle while:

• Impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination
• Your BAC is 0.08 or higher
• You refuse a lawful breath, blood, or urine test

Implied Consent Law

Florida’s implied consent law means that by driving, you agree to chemical testing if arrested for DUI. Refusing a test can result in an automatic license suspension – even if you’re never convicted. The refusal also becomes evidence that may be used against you in court.

If you’ve refused a breath test during a traffic stop, call our Jacksonville DUI defense attorneys immediately.

Drunk Driving Penalties in Florida

First-Time DUI

Florida takes first offenses seriously, even if no one was hurt. You could face up to 6 months in jail, a $500–$1,000 fine, and a 180-day license suspension.

Courts can also require:

• DUI school
• Probation
• Ignition interlock device

The exact penalties depend on your BAC, driving history, and other case details.

Enhanced Penalties

Certain factors make DUI penalties even harsher. If your BAC was 0.15 or higher, or you had a child passenger or caused damage, the consequences increase.

You could face up to 9 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,000, even for a first offense.

Repeat Offenses

Florida law imposes strict penalties for multiple DUI convictions. A second DUI means more jail time, higher fines, and mandatory ignition interlock.

A third DUI within 10 years is a third-degree felony, punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a permanent mark on your record.

Why Choose Our Jacksonville DUI Lawyers

At Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite, we’ve handled DUI cases across Duval, Clay, St. Johns, and Nassau counties. We understand how local prosecutors build their cases, and how to challenge them. Our team brings years of courtroom experience and proven strategy to every case.

We take the time to understand your arrest, your record, and what matters most to you. Your defense will be built around the facts – not assumptions or shortcuts. 

From license hearings to trial, we stand by your side throughout the process. Call (904) 619-1386 now to schedule a confidential consultation with a Jacksonville DUI lawyer who knows how to fight back.

What to Do After a DUI Arrest in Jacksonville

You Have 10 Days. Act Fast!

Florida law gives you just 10 days to request a DMV hearing to stop your automatic license suspension. Missing this window means giving up important rights, even before your court date.

Understand Your Rights

You are not required to explain yourself to police. Stay calm, provide ID, and politely say you want to speak to a DUI lawyer before answering questions.

Document Everything

As soon as possible, write down everything you remember about the stop and arrest. Note what the officer said, where you were pulled over, and what tests you were given. Small details can make a big difference in helping our DUI lawyers in Jacksonville build your defense.

DUI Defense Strategies We Use

Illegal Stop or Arrest

Police must have reasonable suspicion to pull you over and probable cause to arrest you. We look for traffic stop violations and unlawful detentions that may weaken the case against you.

Faulty or Inadmissible Test Results

Breath and blood tests aren’t always accurate. Improper calibration, officer mistakes, or medical conditions can lead to unreliable results – and we’ll challenge them.

Officer Error or Lack of Probable Cause

We examine the police report, dash cam footage, and field sobriety tests for errors. Lack of documentation or failure to follow proper procedures can help your defense.

Negotiated Outcomes

If a dismissal isn’t possible, we’ll fight for the best outcome. That may mean reduced charges, a plea to a lesser offense, or avoiding jail time altogether.

Types of DUI Charges We Handle

Every DUI case is different, and each charge brings its own risks. Some carry mandatory jail time, while others may lead to felony convictions. We help you understand the penalties involved and how we can fight back.

Our firm defends clients facing:

• First-Time DUI
• Repeat DUI
• DUI With Injury or Property Damage
• Underage DUI
• CDL (Commercial Driver License) DUI
• Drug-Related DUI
• Aggravated DUI
• DUI With Child Passenger
• Refusal Cases

Whether you’re charged with a misdemeanor or felony DUI, our goal is to protect your record, license, and future. Talk to our Jacksonville DUI lawyers today by calling (904) 619-1386 or visiting any of our three offices in Jacksonville.

License Suspension & Hardship Options

After a DUI arrest in Florida, your license may be suspended immediately. You have just 10 days to request a formal review hearing with the DMV. We help you act quickly to preserve your driving privileges.

Hardship Licenses

A hardship license lets you drive to work, school, or medical appointments during suspension. If you qualify, we’ll guide you through DUI school enrollment and the application process. We make sure your paperwork is complete and submitted on time.

Long-term Consequences of a DUI Conviction

Criminal Record & Background Checks

A DUI conviction becomes part of your criminal record, not just your driving history. It can show up on background checks for jobs, housing, and licenses.

Employment & Insurance Issues

Many employers are hesitant to hire applicants with a DUI on record. You’ll also face higher insurance rates, sometimes for years.

Long-Term Impact

In Florida, a DUI stays on your record for 75 years – essentially for life. Even a single mistake can follow you for decades, affecting your reputation and opportunities. 

That’s why smart legal defense matters from the start.

Contact Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite Today

Call now to speak with a Jacksonville DUI lawyer at Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite who takes your future seriously. We’ll listen, evaluate your case, and explain your legal options with no pressure and no judgment.

We represent clients throughout Duval, Clay, and nearby counties. Our team offers strategic, focused defense when the stakes are high. 

Let us help you take control of your case and protect what matters most. Call (904) 619-1386 now for a confidential consultation with our expert DUI defense attorneys.

Jacksonville DUI FAQs

What’s the penalty for a first DUI in Florida?

A first-time DUI offense in Florida can be penalized by up to 6 months in jail, $500–$1,000 in fines, and a 180-day license suspension.

Will I lose my license after a DUI arrest?

Yes, unless you request a DMV hearing within 10 days to challenge the suspension.

Is it worth hiring a lawyer for a first offense?

Yes, a Jacksonville DUI defense attorney can help reduce penalties, protect your license, and challenge the evidence.

Can a DUI be reduced or dismissed in Jacksonville?

In some cases, yes. It depends on the facts, your record, and legal issues in your case.

How long does a DUI stay on your record?

In Florida, a DUI stays on your driving and criminal record for 75 years.

What is Florida’s 10-day rule after DUI arrest?

You have 10 days to request a formal DMV hearing or face automatic suspension.

What’s the difference between DUI and “wet reckless”?

“Wet reckless” is a lesser charge sometimes offered in plea deals with fewer penalties.

Can I challenge the breathalyzer results?

Yes. Breath tests can be unreliable if not properly administered or maintained.

What if I refused the breath test?

Refusing a breath test leads to automatic license suspension but can still be challenged in court.

Do I have to go to court for a DUI?

Yes. Multiple court appearances are usually required for a DUI charge unless resolved through a plea agreement.