Miami Aggravated DUI Defense Lawyers
Defending Against Drunk Driving Charges in Miami-Dade County
Drunk driving is a serious crime in Florida. Even first-time DUI offenders can face harsh penalties if convicted. For DUI offenses involving aggravating circumstances, the consequences can be significantly more severe. If you’re facing aggravated DUI charges in Miami-Dade County, consulting with a qualified DUI defense lawyer is paramount to avoiding the life-altering ramifications of a criminal conviction.
At Beckham Law Firm, our firm is committed to restoring your freedom after a DUI arrest. We understand that even good people find themselves in bad situations, which is why our attorneys are dedicated to safeguarding your life and liberty by providing the well-fortified defense you deserve. From challenging the evidence against you to anticipating and analyzing prosecutorial strategies, our lawyers have decades of experience to vigorously defend your rights in criminal court.
If you were arrested for drunk driving, turn to Beckham Law Firm for a robust defense. Contact us online to discuss your case.
VICTORY BEGINS WITH Beckham Law Firm
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The State DROPPED the DUIAt 5:54 am, the Defendant was recklessly driving as reported by one witness. The Defendant nearly hit two vehicles and a concrete barrier wall. The Defendant later made a complete stop and one of the officers observed the Defendant passed out inside the vehicle behind the wheel blocking the roadway. The Defendant was removed from the vehicle for safety. The Defendant had an odor of an unknown alcoholic beverage and was not aware of what was happening. The Defendant refused to perform the standardized field sobriety tests and refused to provide a breath sample for the breathalyzer.
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The State DROPPED the DUIAt 12:55 am, officers observed the Defendant swerving in front of the, while almost hitting parked cars. The traffic stop was initiated, and the officers immediately noticed signs of intoxication like: the Defendant’s bloodshot, watery eyes, and flushed face. There was also an odor of alcohol that emitted when the Defendant stepped out of the car. Due to the Defendant’s level of intoxication, the Defendant was unable to meet the roadside exercises to standard, and was arrested for DUI. Later on, the Defendant admitted to having a few drinks and blew a .178/.167 in the breathalyzer, which both samples are 2 times above the legal limit.
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The State DROPPED the DUIAt 4:05 am, the Defendant was observed by an officer traveling eastbound on a westbound lane. The officer conducted a traffic stop and noticed the Defendant had a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage emitting from his breath, slurred speech, and bloodshot eyes. The Defendant agreed to attempt the field sobriety tests but was not able to perform these exercises to standard. The Defendant was later found to have over 90 pills in his pocket without any prescription labels. The Defendant was arrested and taken to the station, where he refused to provide any breath samples.
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The State DISMISSED the DUIAround midnight, Police were operating a checkpoint on Coral Way near 27th Avenue. The Defendant entered the checkpoint, and displayed bloodshot eyes and slurred speech. She also had difficulty balancing when she stepped out of the vehicle, and could not complete the roadside exercises safely. Police arrested the Defendant for DUI, and the Defendant later admitted to drinking wine earlier that night at a party with friends. The Defendant blew .152 and .143 into the breath machine.
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The State DROPPED the DUIAt 7:41 pm, the Defendant was observed swerving and unable to maintain his lane. The Defendant almost struck several vehicles as he would drift to the left lane and then abruptly move back to the right lane, also disregarding a stop sign. An officer conducted a traffic stop, and once he made contact with the Defendant, he noticed the Defendant had bloodshot, watery eyes, a flushed face, slurred speech, and a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage was emanating from his breath and person. When asked to step out of the vehicle, the Defendant was unable to do so without bracing on the door and leaning on the vehicle. The officer observed two 24 oz. beer cans, along with an empty glass bottle of Grand Marnier Liquor in plain view on the passenger seat. A blue plastic cup filled with an unknown beer was also found in the Defendant’s vehicle in the front cup holder. The Defendant agreed to perform the field sobriety exercises but failed to meet standards. The Defendant was placed under arrest and refused to provide a breath sample.
What Constitutes an Aggravated DUI in Florida?
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal under Florida law. DUI is committed when a person operates a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or 0.04% for CDL drivers. Keep in mind that this legal threshold isn’t required to arrest a driver for DUI, as law enforcement can arrest any person if they have probable cause to suspect the driver is impaired.
Unlike other DUI offenses, an aggravated DUI involves factors that make the offense more dangerous or reckless than a standard DUI. While a typical DUI charge can result in significant penalties, an aggravated DUI charge carries even harsher consequences. Consulting with a skilled DUI defense lawyer is essential to defend against the life-changing penalties of a felony conviction.
Is Aggravated DUI Always a Felony in Florida?
Yes, an aggravated DUI is usually a felony in Florida. While the degree will vary based on the specific offense, an aggravated DUI is typically at least a third-degree felony. A felony conviction can tarnish your reputation and even result in the loss of civil liberties, including the right to vote and own a firearm. Seeking sound counsel is critical to safeguarding your hard-earned reputation and avoiding the permanent consequences of a conviction.
What Are the Penalties for Aggravated DUI?
The consequences of an aggravated DUI are very serious. If convicted, you can face felony penalties and other drastic repercussions. Having an experienced attorney by your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Potential penalties for aggravated DUI include:
- Incarceration: A conviction is punishable by lengthy prison sentences ranging from several months to several years, depending on the severity of the offense.
- Fines: Aggravated DUI is punishable by hefty fines and court fees.
- Revoked driving privileges: A conviction can result in the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license for an extended period of time.
- Mandatory education: A conviction can result in the mandatory completion of alcohol education courses or substance abuse treatment programs.
- Ignition interlock device (IID): Aggravated DUI can lead to the mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device (breathalyzer) in your vehicle.
- Permanent criminal record: Having a felony conviction on your permanent record can lead to reputational damage and other challenges, including difficulties securing affordable housing and employment opportunities.
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High BACIf the driver’s breath or blood test results indicate a BAC of 0.15% or higher, they can face aggravated DUI charges.
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Having a minor in the vehicleIf the driver commits DUI with a minor passenger in the vehicle (under the age of 18), this constitutes an aggravated DUI.
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Multiple DUI offensesIf the driver has prior DUI convictions, this can enhance the charges to an aggravated DUI.
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Causing serious injury or deathIf the drunk driving incident results in a severe injury or fatality (DUI manslaughter), the offense can be enhanced to an aggravated DUI.
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Driving with a suspended or revoked licenseOperating a vehicle under the influence while your driver’s license is suspended or revoked constitutes aggravated DUI charges.
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Excessive speeding or reckless drivingDUI involving excessive speeds or reckless driving can enhance the charges to an aggravated DUI, such as operating a vehicle at more than 30 miles over the posted speed limit or driving on the wrong side of the road.
Understanding Aggravating Factors in DUI Cases
Various factors can elevate a DUI charge to an aggravated DUI offense under state law. Common examples of aggravating factors include:
Why Partner with Beckham Law Firm?
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Distinguished ReputationOur reputation is backed by numerous awards and recognitions.
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Comprehensive Team ApproachWe give you the benefit of three accomplished attorneys.
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35 Years of Combined ExperienceOur team will help you get the results you deserve.
Stay In The Know
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Beckham Law Firm's Blog
Want all the latest news or updates? Browse through our blog to read our most recent posts and featured articles.
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The effects of heat and dehydration on your blood alcohol content
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Sleeping in a car while under the influence can get you a DUI
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Miami’s breakup with spring break and its DUI crackdown
Vigorously Defending Your Rights in the Sunshine State
If you’re facing aggravated DUI charges in Miami-Dade County, securing skilled representation is imperative to protect your future. At Beckham Law Firm, our top-rated attorneys have a proven track record of results in DUI cases. With former prosecution experience and an in-depth understanding of Florida’s DUI laws, we can help you develop a strategic defense and fight to reduce or dismiss the charges against you. Put decades of experience in your corner by partnering with our fierce defense lawyers.
Arrested for aggravated DUI? Our firm can aggressively defend your rights. Call (786) 244-8010 to schedule a free consultation.
hear how we made a difference
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"They fought to be sure my side was heard and that I was treated fairly."The Beckham Law Firm has been a tremendous help with my case. I cannot thank their team enough for the time, attention, and understanding with my case. Forever grateful for their help with case. Truly a phenomenal team!- Shannon F.
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"What stood out most was the empathy and communication."I can’t say enough about the professionalism and dedication of The Law Offices of Justin K. Beckham. From day one, they treated my case with genuine care and urgency. Every text and call was answered, every question explained. I always felt heard and supported. Brandon and the entire team fought for me like family and never gave up until we cleared my name. If you ever find yourself needing defense counsel in Miami, this is the firm you want by your side—experienced, relentless, and truly human. I’m forever grateful for their work and for giving me my life back.- Rafael M.
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"The experience with Beckham law firm was excellent."They took great care of me, kept me informed and made me feel secure with the process, as it was my first time having to hire an attorney. 100% satisfied with my experience- Marvin O.
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"Mr. Beckham is real, trustworthy, and more importantly knowledgeable."Mr. Beckham is real, trustworthy, and more importantly knowledgeable. This was my first experience dealing with an attorney and I’m truly thankful I chose him and for all the help him and his associates provided me with.- Ethan M.
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"They were professional and informative."Mr. Beckham and his team were EXCELLENT! They were professional and informative. They walked me through the process and answered all my questions and concerns! And they advised me well! I Highly recommend them!- Nelson F.
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"My case was fixed thanks to their support and commitment."The lawyer represented my case in 2017 my whole case was resolved in the best way, they were very attentive and effective. My case was fixed thanks to your support and commitment. I recommend them to anyone who is in a case like I was.- Mariamelia G.
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"I'm very happy and grateful to have chosen this office to represent me."Wonderful service! Attorney Beckham handled my case very professionally and attentive the entire process. I'm very happy and grateful to have chosen this office to represent me. I recommend his services to anyone in need of an attorney, quality and service will not disappoint. The assistants in the office are very attentive and communicative. Simply amazing!- Sam G.
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"Their level of expertise and understanding of different situations is paramount."
I want to thank Beckham and Solis for guiding through this difficult process. Their level of expertise and understanding of different situations is paramount. I highly recommend hiring this firm as a representative for any case.
- Joel I.
