Many states have a more severe drunk driving charge known as an “aggravated DUI.” Typically, an aggravated DUI charge is treated as a felony, not a misdemeanor like a regular DUI charge. Subsequently, the punishments for an aggravated DUI can be very harsh if you are convicted.
Criteria for an Aggravated DUI
- Driving with BAC of 0.08 or more with a minor present in the vehicle
- Driving a school bus while intoxicated
- Driving drunk in a designated school zone
- Driving under the influence without a driver’s license
- Causing serious injury or death while driving drunk or under the influence
- Causing significant property damage as the result of an accident
- Multiple DUI convictions within a certain period of time
- Reckless driving or speeding while under the influence
Penalties for an Aggravated DUI Charge
As stated before, aggravated DUI charges are usually treated as felonies and can carry stricter punishments than a misdemeanor DUI charge. An aggravated DUI charge is permanently marked on a person’s criminal record, making their prospects of finding employment bleak. Penalties for an aggravated DUI include:
- Jail Time
- Expensive Fines
- Revocation of Driver’s License
- Community Service
- Extended Probation Terms
- Installation of Ignition Interlock Device
- Vehicle Confiscation
An aggravated DUI is a charge you’ll want to avoid at all costs. In addition to potential criminal charges and a bleaker employment outlook, an aggravated DUI charge will likely result in dramatically increased insurance rates and mandatory enrollment in an alcohol or drug treatment program. If you’ve been charged with an aggravated DUI, you should immediately seek legal representation in order to protect your rights.
At Beckham Law Firm, we waste no time creating an aggressive strategy that can help save your license, protect your freedom, and safeguard
your future. Contact our team of Miami DUI lawyers to get started today!
