The state of Florida takes DUI offenses extremely seriously. It goes without saying that committing a DUI will affect your driver’s license and maybe even your education or career, but it is important to consider your relationship with your landlord as well.
In many cases, driving under the influence of alcohol is a misdemeanor crime. However, there are severe circumstances under which a landlord might deny your rental application or attempt to evict you outright.
Can a DUI lead to an eviction?
Landlords have the right to discriminate against current or potential tenants based on criminal history. This is especially relevant if you have a felony on record. You are guilty of a felony DUI if you receive three convictions within a 10-year period.
Will a DUI make it hard to rent a home in the future?
If your criminal record contains a misdemeanor DUI, it is likely that most landlords will overlook the offense during your application. However, a felony DUI is sure to raise some alarms as this may give the impression that you are a threat to the property and other tenants. Be aware that Florida DUI law entails that a DUI conviction remains on your criminal record for 75 years.
Receiving a DUI conviction in Florida carries consequences that will follow you for the rest of your life. If you stand accused of driving under the influence, the best thing you can do to protect yourself is to prepare a strong defense for your case when you appear in court.
