If you’ve recently been arrested for DUI in Jacksonville or anywhere in Northeast Florida, knowing your rights and the potential penalties is crucial. As an experienced Jacksonville DUI Attorney, Christopher Jackson has helped a multitude of clients navigate the complex consequences of their first DUI charge. Florida law treats driving under the influence seriously, and penalties vary based on your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and whether drugs were involved. Don’t face these charges alone—contact a Northeast Florida DUI Attorney like Christopher Jackson as soon as possible to protect your future.
First DUI Offense: BAC Under .08
Many people believe you can’t be arrested for DUI unless your BAC is .08 or higher. However, Florida law allows for DUI charges even under .08 if the officer believes your normal faculties are impaired. Penalties for a first-time DUI under .08 can include fines up to $500, probation, community service, and a six-month driver’s license suspension. Even a first offense can have lasting consequences, making it vital to consult a Jacksonville DUI Attorney immediately after your arrest.
First DUI Offense: BAC .08 or Higher
If your BAC is .08 or above, penalties become more severe. As a Northeast Florida DUI Attorney, Christopher has seen first offenders face fines between $500 and $1,000, up to six months in jail, 50 community service hours, mandatory DUI school, probation, and installation of an ignition interlock device. Your driver’s license could also be suspended for six months to a year. The court may impose additional penalties depending on the circumstances of your arrest, so having a skilled Jacksonville DUI Attorney can make a significant difference in your case.
Aggravated DUI: BAC .15 or Higher
A BAC of .15 or higher brings even harsher penalties under Florida law. First-time offenders may face fines up to $2,000, up to nine months in jail, and mandatory ignition interlock for at least six months. Judges also tend to be less lenient in these cases, especially if there was a minor in the vehicle or an accident occurred. If you’re facing an aggravated DUI in Northeast Florida, you need an aggressive DUI attorney to fight for your rights and minimize the impact on your life.
Drug-Related DUI Offenses
DUI charges aren’t limited to alcohol. Driving under the influence of drugs—whether prescription, marijuana, over-the-counter, or illegal substances—also carries serious penalties for first offenders. Unlike alcohol, there’s no “legal limit” for drugs, so much depends on the officer’s observations, field sobriety tests, and toxicology reports. Penalties mirror those for alcohol-related DUIs, including fines, jail time, probation, and driver’s license suspension. If you’ve been arrested for a drug-influenced DUI in Jacksonville, contact a Northeast Florida DUI Attorney without delay.
Contact Chris Jackson at Christopher J. Jackson Law, PLLC
If you, someone you know, or a loved one is facing a DUI charge in Jacksonville or Northeast Florida, it’s essential to act quickly. The penalties for first offenders can be life-altering, but a dedicated Jacksonville DUI Attorney can protect your rights and build the strongest possible defense. Contact Chris Jackson at Christopher J. Jackson Law today for a free consultation, and let him fight for your future.