Facing second-time DUI charges in South Florida can be challenging, as you’ve overcome the battle once already, but a second-DUI allegation can make one feel defeated. If you are facing DUI charges for the second time after previously having been convicted, the penalties you might face this time will be much harsher than those associated with your first offense. Unlike DUI charges for people who have never faced allegations of this nature before, second-time offenders will be required to serve at least some jail time if convicted, on top of facing much higher fines and much longer-lasting administrative sanctions.

Second-time DUI in South Florida is not something you should try to deal with alone. Our award-winning DUI defense team at Rossen Law Firm is prepared to help.

Jail Term and Probation for Second-Time DUI

Under Florida Statutes §316.193, a person convicted a second time of driving drunk—either based on a blood alcohol concentration above 0.08 percent or general impairment in the eyes of an arresting police officer—may face a maximum jail term of nine months, as opposed to the six-month maximum term applicable for a first-time offender. If a second-time offender is arrested with a BAC over 0.15 BAC or with a minor in the car with them, their maximum jail term may reach one year in length.

Additionally, a mandatory minimum 10-day jail term must be assessed by the court upon conviction for a second DUI in Fort Lauderdale within a five-year period, with at least 48 hours to be served consecutively. The same one-year mandatory probation term that applies to first-time offenders also applies to second-time offenders.

What Fines May Be Assessed in Criminal Court?

A second-time DUI conviction in South Florida usually leaves you with a required fine between $1,000 and $2,000. As with jail terms, though, applicable fines for second-time DUI increase if your BAC was over 0.15 or you had a minor in the car. In these situations, the range for fines upon conviction would be from $2,000 to $4,000.

License Restrictions and Other Administrative Penalties in Ft. Lauderdale

A Second DUI conviction is a second-degree misdemeanor. A DUI second-degree misdemeanor carries consequences of up to 9 months in jail and fines between $1,000 and $2,000. There is no minimum jail time if the arrest was 5 years or more after your first DUI conviction. A second DUI offense can lead to your license being revoked for a minimum of five years. You also cannot apply for hardship reinstatement of your license until at least one year has passed after conviction. You also must complete DUI school and stay in good standing with the state’s DUI supervision program for the remainder of the original five-year term.

On top of that, second-time offenders convicted of driving drunk with a BAC over 0.15 percent must have an ignition interlock device installed for anywhere from one to two years after conviction. You are also subject to vehicle impoundment or immobilization for 30 days after serving any jail time.

Talk to a South Florida Attorney About Second-Time DUI Defenses

It is worth emphasizing that the penalties listed above only apply to DUI convictions where the defendant did not cause any physical injury or property damage through their drunk driving. Under these circumstances, even harsher penalties can apply, which may rise to the level of a felony offense.

At Rossen Law Firm, we understand that mistakes happen. We believe in fighting for your future and giving you the second chance you deserve. To get started on your defense for a second-time DUI in Fort Lauderdale, contact us today.

Get Your Free Download Instantly
The Client All Agree Rossen Law Firms’s 5- Stars Rated Attorneys
Instant Download
7 Reglas Que Necesitas Saber Para Sobrevivir A Un DUI en Florida
EN ESTE REPORTE GRATIS DESCUBRIRAS EL ERROR #1 AL HACER LA PRUEBA DE SOBRIEDAD, LA VERDADERA RAZÓN PORQUE LA POLICÍA QUIERE ARRESTARTE Y MUCHO MÁS…
Instant Download
7 Rules You Need to Know to Survive a Florida DUI
IN THIS FREE REPORT YOU’LL DISCOVER: THE #1 MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE ON THE FIELD SOBRIETY TESTS THE REAL REASON THE POLICE ARE DYING TO ARREST YOU… AND WAY MORE…
Instant Download
Florida Domestic Violence
HOW WHAT HAPPENS IN THE HEAT OF THE MOMENT CAN HAVE TERRIBLE LEGAL CONSEQUENCES FOR EVERYONE INVOLVED
Instant Download
Second-Time DUI in South Florida
What to Expect at Your Free Initial Strategy Session with Rossen Law Firm
STEP1
We Listen to Your Story
STEP2
We Educate You
STEP3
We Create a Unique Defense Strategy
Schedule Your
Free Strategy Session

    750+ Reviews On
    Google Reviews
    kevin tabronkevin tabron
    00:07 08 Sep 22
    In one of the most stressful times in my life, Rossen Law Firm was there for me. Leaving no stone unturned they provided patience and knowledge in every detail of my case. I’m very thankful and proud of this law firm family and especially of my lawyer, Scott Simmons for guiding, defending and helping me in every way possible. He and this law firm family come highly recommended from personal experience!!!
    Jason HigleyJason Higley
    15:24 26 Aug 22
    I had an unfortunate situation with a family member that lead to my arrest and being charged with DV Battery. This was the first time I had ever been arrested so I was very nervous and afraid of what was going to happen to me. After talking with Adam I decided to retain him and let me tell you this was the BEST decision I could have ever made. Adam made me feel so comfortable and confident that everything will turn out the best in my favor. He is professional, ethical and supportive. He was always available too answer any questions or concerns.Not to mention, his team at the office is awesome they are so friendly and welcoming. Anytime I had a question when I called the office they were able to guide me in the rightdirection. They always were in contact with me with any information or updates regarding my case. Adams team is GREAT!Adam delivered, my case was DISMISSED. So if you want an attorney the is gonna fight for you and get the job done retain the BEST there is Adam Rossen!!!
    Felix I HFelix I H
    13:27 28 Jul 22
    Adam Rossen and the team at Rossen Law took great care in handling my case. They are very professional, and get the job done. I was particular relieved to see just how much empathy they showed with me, and how effortless it was to be their client.I literally visited them twice. My initial consultation, and then to pickup the final docs. I have nothing but great things to say about these folks, and I would highly recommend them to anyone. Thanks Guys.
    Terry ChristopherTerry Christopher
    12:32 09 May 22
    I had an amazing experience with The Rossen Law Firm. The staff were very professional. Attorney Susan Lawson went above and beyond working on my case. We were thoroughly prepared for trial. Mrs. Lawson reviewed hours of body and dash camera footage multiple times and aggressively performed depositions on witnesses and law enforcement.The final outcome for me was the state dropped my case, due to the great work Susan and the Rossen team performed. I didn’t even need to go to trial.This law firm does not play around. They pay attention to detail and they FIGHT FOR YOU!Thank you Adam, team, and a special thank you to Susan for your amazing work! I really appreciate you.
    Ketiana ProvinceKetiana Province
    20:27 23 Mar 22
    My experience with Rossen Law Firm was excellent. From the consultation to the end.. My attorney Susan Lawson gave my son's case all the time and attention that was needed to be successful in court. She was confident during all the court proceedings. My favorite part was when she said we are family, never once my son and I were treated other then that. I very much appreciate the knowledge and support I received through Rossen Law Firm.
    js_loader
    super-lawyers-2021
    500
    national-trial-lawyers
    national-association-distinguished-counsel
    florida-trends-legal-elite
    american-institute-criminal-law-attorneys
    rated-by-super-lawyers
    avvo-rating-superb-criminal
    avvo-rating-superb-dui
    av-preeminent
    av-preeminent-2017
    superior-dui-attorney
    american-assoc-attorneys
    rising-stars-serra-jovenich
    super-lawyers-rising-stars
    Second DUI, 0.19 Breath
    DUI Charge Dismissed
    Federal Child Porn Possession
    Mandatory Prison Time Avoided
    Attempted Murder
    Charges Dismissed
    How We Win
    Second DUI, 0.19 Breath
    DUI Charge Dismissed
    Federal Child Porn Possession
    Mandatory Prison Time Avoided
    Attempted Murder
    Charges Dismissed
    Types Of Cases We Handle

    Rossen Law Firm’s legal team understands what’s at stake when you’re charged with a crime in South Florida. We’re committed to defending you and protecting your rights. Our legal team is ready to create a customized strategy for your case to fight for the best possible outcome. We handle Criminal, DUI, Federal, Domestic Violence, Marchman Act & Baker Act cases, and more.

    See All Practice Areas
    Get Help Now
    Take a moment to fill out the form on this page to get in touch with us, and we will get back to you shortly.