First and second DUI offenses, with the exception of DUI with injury and DUI manslaughter, are charged as misdemeanors. The consequences increase, however, with each subsequent offense. A third DUI conviction within 10 years of a first, or a fourth or subsequent conviction, will be charged and convicted as a felony. Misdemeanor DUIs result in a fine of no more than $1,000 and a possible jail sentence of up to a year. Felony DUIs have much harsher penalties.

The main differences between a misdemeanor DUI and a felony DUI is that a misdemeanors are punished with jail sentences instead of state prison and are much less serious to have on your criminal record than a felony. Florida uses the Three Strikes Law, meaning that a felony conviction could contribute to a life sentence in prison. Do not hesitate to retain a Jacksonville DUI attorney if you have been charged with a felony DUI. Parks & Braxton, PA has over 40 years of combined experience and will fight skillfully and tirelessly to have your case dismissed, obtain a “not guilty” verdict, or at least reduce your charges to a misdemeanor.