DUI Causing Property Damage Defense Attorney in Miami

Fighting Your Charges in Fort Lauderdale

Most Floridians know that a DUI is a serious criminal offense that comes with dire consequences. However, most are unaware that causing property damage – even a slight fender bender – while driving under the influence can increase the penalties substantially, including more costly fines and the possibility of serving more time in jail.

If you have been arrested for any DUI offense, please do not take your legal matter lightly. You need the immediate assistance of an experienced Miami DUI with property damage defense attorney to fight for your rights and prevent your reputation from being permanently tarnished by a conviction.

Attorney Evan Hoffman of The Hoffman Firm is an experienced criminal defense attorney who has successfully represented clients faced with DUI charges such as DUI involving property damage, felony DUI, personal injury DUI, and intoxicated manslaughter.

The Hoffman Firm is here for you. Schedule your free consultation today by calling 305-928-1669 if your case is out of Miami, 954-737-3004 if your case is out of Broward County, or contacting us online.

DUI with Property Damage Charges

In order to prove the crime of DUI causing property damage or injury under Florida Statute § 316.193(3)(a)(b)(c)1, Chapter 28.1(a) of the Florida Standard Jury Instructions states that a prosecutor must prove three elements beyond a reasonable doubt.

These include:

• The alleged offender drove or was in actual physical control of a vehicle
• While driving or in actual physical control of the vehicle, the alleged offender was under the influence of alcohol, a chemical substance, or a controlled substance to the extent that his or her normal faculties were impaired or had a BAC of 0.08 or more.
• As a result of operating the vehicle, the alleged offender caused or contributed to causing damage to the property of the alleged victim or injury to the person of the alleged victim

DUI causing property damage or non-serious injury is a first-degree misdemeanor offense.

Penalties for DUI Causing Property Damage

Convictions for DUI causing property damage or injury to the person of another are punishable by the same statutory maximums allowed for first-degree misdemeanor offenses, including up to one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000. Any alleged offender convicted of this crime who was accompanied by a person under the age of 18 years or had a BAC of 0.15 or higher can face increased fines depending on his or her prior criminal record.

Penalties include:

• First conviction: Minimum fine of $1,000 up to $2,000
• Second conviction: Minimum fine of $2,000 up to $4,000
• Third or subsequent conviction: Minimum fine of $4,000

Seek Guidance from The Hoffman Firm

Being convicted of a DUI offense, including a DUI that resulted in property damage, can be a life-altering event that could negatively impact you for years to come, if not your whole life. Not only will your reputation have a permanent blemish, it could negatively impact your finances by making you ineligible for certain professional licenses and jobs.

If you’re up against the criminal justice system, consult with our Miami DUI with property damage defense lawyer at The Hoffman Firm. Our team is ready to take on prosecutors to protect your rights and freedom.

Schedule your free consultation today by calling 305-928-1669 if your case is out of Miami, 954-737-3004 if your case is out of Broward County, or contacting us online. Don’t face your charges without help from an experienced Miami criminal defense lawyer.