Collateral Consequences of a DUI Conviction

Experienced Tampa Bay Criminal Defense Attorney Skillfully Defending Clients in Driving Under the Influence Cases

Driving under the influence is one of the most common crimes in Florida, with an average of more than 32,000 people being arrested for DUI each year. And while Florida law imposes some harsh criminal penalties for those who are convicted of driving under the influence, that isn’t the end of the story—there are also collateral consequences of a DUI conviction. Often, these consequences can have just as severe an impact on your life as a jail sentence, probation or fines.

At the Mayberry Law Firm, we have decades of experience defending clients charged with DUI and related offenses. Attorney Jason Mayberry understands what’s at stake in these cases and is committed to ensuring that every client’s case ends in the best result possible.

What Are the Penalties for a Tampa DUI?

When people talk about punishments for a DUI conviction in Florida, they will often lump criminal penalties together with the collateral consequences of a DUI conviction. On one hand, this makes sense; however, it is important to understand the difference. As a general rule, criminal penalties are intended to punish a defendant for violating the law, whereas administrative consequences, in this context, are focused on ensuring safe roads.

Florida Statutes § 316.193 makes it illegal to drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you violate this law, you’re subject to criminal punishments, which, even for a first-time DUI conviction, typically include a possible jail sentence, fines, and probation. Of course, the exact sentence you receive will depend on the facts of your case, the judge you’re in front of, and whether you have any prior DUI convictions.

However, a DUI conviction in Florida carries several collateral consequences that extend beyond criminal penalties. These consequences can impact various aspects of your life, socially, professionally, and financially:

Employment Issues: A DUI conviction may lead to job loss, especially if driving is a crucial part of your job. Your future employment opportunities may also be affected as employers may hesitate to hire someone with a criminal record. Certain jobs, particularly those requiring a clean driving record or security clearance, may become impossible to obtain.

Insurance Rates: Car insurance rates are almost certainly going to increase significantly after a DUI conviction. Insurance companies consider individuals with DUIs as high-risk drivers, resulting in higher premiums. Some insurance providers may even refuse to insure you if you have a DUI conviction.

Driving Privileges: A DUI conviction usually results in a driver’s license suspension. Although it’s possible to apply for a hardship license for necessary travel (like commuting to work or school), the loss of full driving privileges can be a significant burden that rivals the impact of a DUI’s criminal penalties.

Educational Opportunities: If you are a student and get a DUI conviction, you may face disciplinary action, which can include suspension or expulsion. Additionally, a DUI conviction can affect your future educational opportunities, as some colleges and universities take criminal records into account during the admissions process.

Professional Licenses and Certifications: Certain professions require the disclosure of criminal convictions. A DUI can also lead to the revocation or suspension of professional licenses and certifications, impacting careers in fields like law, healthcare, and education.

Social Stigma and Personal Relationships: The stigma associated with a DUI conviction can strain personal relationships. Friends, family, and colleagues may view you differently. For example, your children’s friends’ parents may not let you drive them places.

Financial Burden: Aside from legal fines and increased insurance rates, a DUI conviction can bring additional financial burdens like attorney fees, court costs, DUI school fees, and the cost of installing and maintaining an ignition interlock device.

Travel Restrictions: Some countries may deny entry to individuals with a criminal record, including DUI convictions, with Canada being one of them. This can limit international travel opportunities for business or leisure.

Military Punishment: Conviction of DUI could lead to a letter of reprimand followed by a board or court martial from the military. Because driving under the influence is criminal in nature, arrest for this charge generally leads to repercussion for our military members. Whether it is the prospect of being brought before a military board, or the more formal court martial process, either of these collateral consequences could amount to an even more severe penalty in the grand scheme, than the direct penalties for DUI.

When considering the criminal and collateral consequences of a DUI conviction, it becomes clear that anyone facing a DUI should do everything possible to avoid a conviction.

Speak With a Tampa DUI Defense Lawyer About Your Case Today

If you were recently arrested and charged with a DUI in Tampa, it’s important that you find a lawyer who will take your case as seriously as you do. At the Mayberry Law Firm, our Tampa DUI defense attorney has extensive experience defending good people charged with driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. We understand the best DUI defenses, when they apply, and how to leverage a defense into a favorable outcome—often without the need for a trial. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation today, call Attorney Mayberry at (813) 444-7435. You can also connect with us through our secure online contact form.