Miami Felony DUI Lawyer

Don’t Let a Felony DUI Define Your Future. Fight Back Now

At Beckham Solis, Attorneys at Law, we are dedicated to providing a robust defense for individuals facing felony DUI charges in Miami. Our experienced team includes a former prosecutor and public defender, offering a comprehensive perspective on the legal challenges you might face. 

Whether it's your first offense or you have prior convictions, we understand the severity of your case and are committed to protecting your rights and freedom.

In Miami, a DUI elevates to a felony based on several factors, such as repeat offenses or driving with a suspended or revoked license. The state of Florida does not take DUI offenses lightly, especially when they escalate to felonies, which might include severe penalties such as substantial fines, extended jail time, and a lengthy probation period.

Call (786) 244-8010 now to speak with a skilled Miami felony DUI lawyer, or contact us online to schedule your free legal consultation. The right defense can make all the difference.

When Does a DUI Become a Felony in Florida?

Most DUIs in Florida are charged as misdemeanors. However, specific circumstances elevate the charge to a felony. A Miami felony DUI lawyer focuses first on whether the enhancement is lawful and supported by evidence.

You may face a felony DUI charge under the following conditions:

• Third DUI Within 10 Years: If you are arrested for your third DUI offense within 10 years of a previous conviction, the charge becomes a third-degree felony.
• Fourth DUI – Regardless of Time Frame: A fourth or subsequent DUI offense is automatically a felony, no matter how much time has passed since previous offenses.
• DUI With Serious Bodily Injury: Causing serious injury to another person while driving under the influence elevates the charge to a felony, even if it’s your first DUI.
• DUI Manslaughter: If your actions result in the death of another individual—whether a passenger, another driver, or a pedestrian—you may face DUI manslaughter charges, a second-degree felony, or even a first-degree felony in aggravated cases.

What are the Penalties for Felony DUI in Florida?

Felony DUI convictions carry harsh consequences, particularly for repeat offenders or those who injure or kill someone. The sentence you face depends on the type of felony DUI charge filed.

Being familiar with the specifics of these laws is crucial. For instance, a third-time DUI offense within 10 years can be classified as a third-degree felony, carrying penalties that may include:

• Fines: Up to $5,000.
• Imprisonment: Up to 5 years, depending on the circumstances surrounding the charge and prior convictions.
• License Revocation: Long-term or permanent revocation of driving privileges.
• Probation: Imposed after serving jail time, with mandatory completion of DUI schooling.

Furthermore, the impact of these charges reaches beyond the judicial penalties, influencing both personal and professional aspects of life.

What are the Consequences of a Felony DUI Conviction?

A felony DUI conviction in Miami extends beyond immediate criminal penalties and can dramatically alter your life. Beyond fines, imprisonment, and license revocations, the long-term consequences may affect employment opportunities, housing eligibility, and personal reputation.

Employers and landlords may conduct background checks, revealing your felony conviction and affecting their decisions. Moreover, your reputation within the community may face challenges, impacting personal relationships and social standing.

 Additionally, it may result in increased insurance rates or the inability to obtain coverage altogether. Understanding these broader implications highlights the importance of seeking a skilled felony DUI attorney in Miami to navigate a felony DUI charge effectively.

What the State Must Prove to Convict You?

To convict you of a felony DUI, the prosecution must establish several elements beyond a reasonable doubt. These include:

• You were in actual physical control of a vehicle
• You were under the influence of alcohol or drugs (with a BAC of .08 or higher, or impaired to the extent your faculties were affected)
• You have prior DUI convictions OR
• You caused serious bodily injury or death

If any of these elements are missing, your Miami felony DUI attorney may move to reduce the charge to a misdemeanor—or get the charges dismissed entirely.

Are There DMV Consequences for a Felony DUI?

In addition to criminal penalties, a felony DUI conviction triggers severe administrative sanctions. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) may:

• Revoke your driver's license for 10 years to life
• Require an ignition interlock device for extended periods
• Require high-risk insurance (FR-44)
• Demand completion of DUI school and treatment programs

It’s also important to note that you have only 10 days after your arrest to request a formal hearing to contest your license suspension. A Miami felony DUI attorney can represent you at this hearing and work to preserve your driving privileges during the criminal process.

Experienced Felony DUI Attorney in Miami – Your Local Defense Partner

Choosing the right felony DUI lawyer in Miami can dramatically impact the outcome of your case. Our attorneys at Beckham Solis, Attorneys at Law bring decades of experience in criminal defense within the Miami-Dade Court system, providing insights that align with the local judicial landscape. Our firm blends a strong understanding of Florida state laws with dedicated, personalized defense strategies tailored specifically for your case.

Our strategic approach involves closely examining each detail of your arrest, including:

• Assessing Evidence: Ensuring all gathered evidence is appropriately obtained and contested if necessary.
• Breath & Blood Tests: Analyzing and potentially disputing the results and procedures involved in breathalyzer and blood tests.
• Police Conduct: Scrutinizing the conduct of law enforcement during your arrest to uncover any rights violations.

We understand the complexities surrounding DUI checkpoints, roadblocks, and the protocols that govern them. Analyzing how these were executed during your arrest is imperative in identifying any improper procedures that could lead to the dismissal of evidence. Additionally, evaluating the timing and specifics of Miranda rights readings ensures that all legal standards were met at each stage of your arrest.

Why Trust Our Felony DUI Attorney in Miami? Decades of Combined Experience & Success

At Beckham Solis, Attorneys at Law, we pride ourselves on our strong community ties and relentless dedication to those we serve. Our deep understanding of Miami’s legal landscape, combined with our personalized approach to defense, ensures clients receive the attention and aggressive representation they need.

Working with us means you benefit from:

• Dedicated Defense: A focus on safeguarding your rights at every stage of the legal process.
• Transparent Communication: Keeping you informed and involved in the development of your defense strategy.
• Local Expertise: In-depth knowledge of Miami’s courts, procedures, and key legal personnel.

Additionally, our firm maintains a network of local professionals, including forensic experts and private investigators, who can provide critical insights or evidence in building a robust defense. This local network enhances the lawyer-client collaboration, ensuring a thorough examination of all aspects of your case, thus increasing the potential for a favorable outcome.

Contact Us Today for Robust Legal Representation

When facing felony DUI charges, time is of the essence. Our devoted team at Beckham Solis, Attorneys at Law is ready to provide the support and strategic defense you require. We are committed to protecting your rights and working tirelessly to achieve favorable outcomes. With our local expertise and personalized approach, we stand as your dedicated ally through the legal process.

Don’t wait—call (786) 244-8010 today to schedule your free consultation. Let us help you navigate your legal challenges with clarity, confidence, and a commitment to pursuing justice for you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Felony DUI in Miami

Can Felony DUI Charges Be Reduced or Dismissed?

Yes, under certain circumstances, felony DUI charges in Miami can be reduced or dismissed. This outcome heavily depends on the specifics of your arrest, prior criminal record, and the effectiveness of the defense strategy employed by your attorney. Proving procedural errors during your arrest or disputing evidence validity are potential avenues for negotiating lesser charges. At Beckham Solis, Attorneys at Law, our experienced felony DUI lawyers in Miami work diligently to pursue favorable resolutions for our clients.

How Can a Felony DUI Attorney Help?

Engaging a skilled felony DUI attorney is crucial in navigating the complexities of DUI cases. At Beckham Solis, Attorneys at Law, we bring a methodical approach, scrutinizing every aspect of your case from arrest procedures to evidence handling. Our legal team is equipped to challenge faulty evidence or procedural errors, ultimately shaping a robust defense aimed at reduction or dismissal of charges, thereby safeguarding your future.

In Miami, the complexity of DUI laws and their rigorous enforcement demands a proactive legal strategy. Our firm’s access to Miami’s expert witnesses and legal scholars aids in developing comprehensive defensive tactics. It’s this commitment to detailed case work and community resource utilization that sets us apart in protecting our clients’ rights and futures.

Why Should I Choose a Miami-Based Attorney?

Choosing a Miami-based attorney, like those at Beckham Solis, Attorneys at Law, offers significant advantages due to their familiarity with local laws, court procedures, and key players in the Miami-Dade judicial system. Our attorneys are deeply rooted in the community, ensuring a defense strategy that is tailored with local insights and provides a personal touch. Your defense benefits from our regional knowledge and our unwavering commitment to protecting your rights.

Additionally, a local attorney understands the cultural nuances and community norms, allowing them to connect more effectively with juries and local legal professionals. This connection can be pivotal in influencing the perceptions and decisions that impact your case’s outcome. Local knowledge and personalization afford you a defense crafted with both experience and empathy.