Aggravated DUI Attorney in Kendall
Facing Aggravated DUI Charges in Kendall? Local Knowledge & Guidance
If you face aggravated DUI charges in Kendall, you need trusted support and informed direction. At Beckham Law Firm, we know the Miami-Dade County court system deeply. Our team features former state prosecutors and a former public defender, allowing us to see every case from all sides. We work only in criminal law, so your legal defense always benefits from our local insight and decades of direct experience.
Choosing an aggravated DUI lawyer in Kendall with proven local roots means you get guidance focused on how area courts interpret and process serious DUI cases. Our background practicing in Kendall’s courtrooms means we explain not just the law, but how your case may move through the local system. Every detail is tailored to your situation, not just statewide rules.
A felony aggravated DUI demands immediate action. Call (786) 244-8010 or reach out online now for a confidential consultation with an aggravated DUI attorney in Kendall who has a 90% success rate. Hablamos español.
Understanding Florida's Aggravating Factors and Enhanced Charges
Florida law defines a DUI offense, but it includes specific factors that automatically aggravate the crime, dramatically increasing the penalties and, in many cases, turning a misdemeanor into a felony.
An effective aggravated DUI attorney in Kendall must understand the exact factors the prosecution is using to enhance the charges:
- High Blood Alcohol Content (BAC): Driving with a BAC of 0.15% or higher (nearly double the legal limit) is an aggravating factor, doubling minimum fines and extending potential jail time, even for a first offense.
- Minor Passenger: Driving under the influence with a person under 18 years old in the vehicle. This factor triggers mandatory IID installation for at least six months for a first offense and can lead to separate child endangerment charges.
- Serious Bodily Injury: Causing serious bodily injury to another person due to impaired driving immediately elevates the charge to a Third-Degree Felony, punishable by up to five years in state prison.
- Prior Convictions: A third DUI conviction within 10 years of a prior offense, or a fourth or subsequent DUI conviction at any time, is also classified as a Third-Degree Felony.
Our firm meticulously investigates the specific facts to challenge the aggravating factor alleged, which is crucial to preventing the enhanced penalties.
Penalties and Collateral Consequences of a Florida Aggravated DUI
The penalties for an aggravated DUI are steep and mandatory. We fight aggressively to prevent or mitigate these devastating consequences.
Enhanced Mandatory Penalties (First Offense Examples)
- Standard DUI (BAC < 0.15%): Carries up to 6 months in jail, a fine of $500–$1,000, and a discretionary IID requirement.
- BAC ≥ 0.15% or Minor in the Vehicle: Increases the maximum jail time to 9 months, raises fines to $1,000–$2,000, and imposes a mandatory IID for at least 6 months.
- DUI Causing Serious Bodily Injury: Punishable by up to 5 years in state prison, fines up to $5,000, and a mandatory IID for 3 or more years.
Administrative and Lifelong Consequences
Beyond fines and jail time, an Aggravated DUI conviction results in:
- Extended License Suspension: Repeat offenders face minimum suspensions of 5 to 10 years, or even permanent revocation for a fourth offense.
- Felony Status: A felony conviction means the loss of your right to vote and own a firearm, severely damaging job and housing prospects.
- Vehicle Impoundment: Mandatory vehicle impoundment for 10, 30, or 90 days, depending on the number of prior convictions.
As a Kendall aggravated DUI lawyer with a 90% success rate, we know how to fight the evidence to secure a reduction (like a "wet reckless" plea) or a dismissal.
VICTORY BEGINS WITH Beckham Law Firm
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Strong Arm Robbery – Case DismissedAt 11:44 PM, law enforcement was called to respond to a possible suspect of robbery and battery. The Defendant had been observed by the victim earlier this day as the Defendant approached the victim while she was eating and having drinks with some friends. The Defendant told the victim she needed to leave the location and if not he would take her phone. The victim then told the Defendant she will not leave the place and he became enraged. The Defendant stroke the victim with a closed right fist in the face and grabbed the victim’s wallet and took without permission $200. The victim contacted the SweetWater Police department and advised them of the Defendants location and that the Defendants vehicle that was parked at the rear of the location where the Defendant was found. At a safe distance, the victim was able to positively I.D. The Defendant was then arrested and transported to TGK, charged with strong arm robbery.
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2nd Degree Murder – Case DismissedAt 7:43 PM, the Defendant who was a Miami-Dade Public Transit employee surrendered at the Miami-Dade Police Department. The Defendant and the victim engaged in a heated verbal dispute over which exit door the victim was supposed to utilize. The victim was belligerent and yelled obscene remarks to the Defendant who remained on the driver’s seat. The victim reached the Defendant driver’s side window and states the Defendant yelled “F****, Die b****, Jesus is going to kill you.” The Defendant proceeded to intentionally drive and steer the bus in the direction of the victim, cause the bus to run over the victim, leaving the victim under the bus. The victim was transported to Aventura Hospital in critical conditions. The victim sustained fractures to his left foot, left acetabular fracture, C5/ 6 interior superior end plate fractures, C4 transverse process fracture, left pulmonary contusions, contusions to the right hip, and abrasions to the right knee. The Defendant was charged with 2nd degree attempted murder.
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Aggravated Battery on an Elderly Person – Charges DismissedAt 4:53 pm officers responded to a disturbance and upon arrival met with the elderly victim who stated that the Defendant and her had gotten into a verbal disagreement which then escalated into a physical altercation. The Defendant had struck the victim with a broom stick, a piece of a door frame and slapped her several times in the face with an open palm. The Defendant also placed a cloth towel into the victim’s mouth and held it there as she began to choke. Victim had an abrasion on her left forearm, lower back pain and shoulder pain. The Defendant was arrested and charged with aggravated battery on an elderly person.
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Domestic Violence Strangulation – Case DismissedAt 4:38 PM law enforcement began to investigate, both the Defendant and Victim 1. The Defendant was taken into custody and taken into interview room for further questioning. The Defendant admitted that he and victim 1 were involved in a verbal dispute but denied that the incident ever became physical. The Defendant and the victims were inside the Defendants vehicle when the argument occurred. Victim 1 explained that the argument escalated when the Defendant slapped her on the left side of her face and moments later on twice on her left thigh. Upon arrival at their home, the Defendant grabbed victim 1 by her hair and shoved her on the bed and mounted her as she now laid next to victim 2. The Defendant then took a black semi-automatic handgun from his waist and stated aloud “Do you want to die today!” Victim 2 began to cry and Victim 1 fled the residence with their child. Victim 1 during the investigation disclosed the Defendant had battered her in the past and provided photographs of the three other events. The Defendant denied this accusations and advised that he was unaware she was injured on those dates. The Defendant was arrested and charged with domestic violence strangulation.
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Battery on a Elderly Person – Case DismissedAt 5:59 PM, law enforcement was dispatched in reference to domestic battery between husband, wife and daughter. Upon arrival, the officer made contact with victim 1 who was in distress and crying. Victim 1 stated that the Defendant became upset while at home and that the Defendant started to break things around the house then pulled her hair while he would break her face to put up a right fist. Victim 1 stated that she has been living in fear since she married the Defendant. Victim 1 also stated that he has become verbally and physically violent multiple times in the past but never wanted to call the police until today that he pulled her daughter’s hair. The officer then approached the Defendant and charged him with Battery on an Elderly Person.
Our Trial-Tested Defense Strategy: Skilled Litigators at Work
Winning an aggravated DUI case requires skilled litigators who can effectively challenge both the police procedure and the scientific evidence. Our firm’s 90% success rate is built on a methodical and aggressive defense strategy.
The 10-Day DMV Deadline
The first, most critical action is challenging the administrative license suspension. You have only 10 calendar days from the date of arrest to request a hearing with the Florida DHSMV. Our firm acts immediately to preserve your driving privilege and, crucially, to cross-examine the arresting officer under oath, gathering vital testimony for the criminal case.
Challenging the Aggravating Factor
We focus on dismantling the element that enhances the charge:
- High BAC Challenge: We use our litigation skills to challenge the reliability of the Intoxilyzer 8000 machine, arguing that its calibration, maintenance, or operation was faulty. We introduce scientific evidence of Rising BAC or Mouth Alcohol to prove the reading was inaccurate or that your BAC was below 0.15% while driving.
- Minor Passenger Challenge: We scrutinize the evidence to ensure the minor was truly a passenger and argue against the prosecution's attempt to stack child endangerment charges.
- Serious Bodily Injury Challenge: In felony cases, we hire medical expert witnesses to challenge whether the injury meets the legal definition of "serious bodily injury" (e.g., loss of function, disfigurement), which can reduce the charge back to a misdemeanor.
Fourth Amendment Violations
We are skilled litigators who aggressively pursue Fourth Amendment challenges. If we can prove the initial traffic stop lacked reasonable suspicion or the arrest lacked probable cause, any evidence gathered afterward—including the BAC test—may be suppressed, leading to a likely dismissal of the charges.
The Aggravated DUI Process & Local Steps in Kendall
If you are arrested for aggravated DUI, the legal process moves quickly. Here’s what typically happens in Miami-Dade County:
- Initial arrest and booking: Police may bring you to a local booking facility, where procedures can affect later legal issues. Detailed records from this step are often important for your case.
- First appearance and formal charges: A county judge typically meets with you within 24 hours to set bond, release conditions, and define charges based on recent local guidelines.
- Review and analysis of evidence: Prosecutors evaluate sobriety test results, blood alcohol levels, and alleged aggravating circumstances. Our team can interpret how these details might shape the course of your case in Kendall courts.
- Strategy sessions and guidance: We explain your rights and options at each step, keeping everything straightforward and clear so you know where you stand.
- Ongoing advocacy through court appearances: Our team helps you stay informed and engaged throughout hearings or negotiation phases, always with your needs in mind.
Miami-Dade County includes specific procedural deadlines for aggravated DUI cases. If you receive a citation or pretrial release, you must carefully track court requirements before your next date. Our knowledge of how the State Attorney’s Office and county Clerk process each step helps make sure you’re always ready. Because court schedules in Kendall sometimes move faster than in other South Florida regions, we keep you updated on what to expect and when.
Contact an Aggravated DUI Attorney in Kendall Now
After an aggravated DUI arrest, finding the right aggravated DUI lawyer in Kendall gives you more control and direction for your next steps. Call Beckham Law Firm for a free consultation—we’re always available, and our staff will answer your questions in English or Spanish. With decades of courtroom work and recognized credentials, our team helps you stay informed, organized, and ready to face what comes next. Don’t delay—reach out today and get a clear path forward.
Call (786) 244-8010 or reach out online to get in touch with our team now.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a DUI charge aggravated in Florida?
Florida courts treat a DUI as aggravated when there are high blood alcohol results, bodily injury, property damage, or a minor present. These increase penalties compared to standard cases.
Can I lose my license after an aggravated DUI in Kendall?
Yes. Aggravated DUI charges can result in immediate and sometimes longer license suspensions. Previous DUI history and the severity of your case determine suspension length.
How do local attorneys help with aggravated DUI cases?
Local attorneys know the tendencies of judges and prosecutors in Kendall, so they offer advice built on what actually happens in county courts—not just the law itself.
Must I attend every court date for an aggravated DUI?
Courts in Miami-Dade generally require you to attend all hearings in person for aggravated DUI charges. Missing court can create further legal problems.
Is jail time mandatory after an aggravated DUI?
Jail time is always possible with aggravated DUI charges, but outcomes depend on your record and how your defense is presented in court.
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Is My DUI Arrest Valid?
If You Answer “YES” to Any of the Questions Below, You May Have An Excellent Defense To Your DUI Case
Regarding The Stop
Did the police pull you over for no reason?
Did the police tell you a reason, but issued you a citation for a different reason?
Was your vehicle parked when the police first came in contact with you?
Did you pull over as soon as you became aware you were being stopped?
Did you pull over without weaving or swerving?
Were you stopped by the police at a DUI checkpoint?
Were you outside the vehicle when the police arrived?
Regarding The Field Sobriety Tests
Did the police officer fail to inform you that the field sobriety tests are voluntary?
Did nervousness or exhaustion affect your performance on the field sobriety tests?
Did you have any physical problems, which would affect your performance on the field sobriety tests?
After you were placed under arrest, did the police read you your Miranda warnings?
Were the field sobriety tests performed close to or on the roadway?
Did the officer administer the tests on a surface which was not well lit, clean and flat?
Did you perform the tests with high heels on?
Regarding The Breath Test
Did the police “persuade” you into taking the breath test?
Did the police tell you to “keep blowing” during the breath test?
Did the police need several breathalyzer attempts to get a final reading?
Did the police fail to observe you for 20 minutes prior to the test?
Were you wearing removable dentures during the breath test?
Did you consume your last alcoholic drink within one hour of taking the breath test?
Is your breath reading below a .11?
Is there a variation in the breath readings?
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What Qualifications Should A Miami Murder Attorney Have?
Selecting the right Miami murder attorney requires focusing on certain qualifications crucial for robust defense. A reputable attorney should have extensive experience specifically in handling murder and other serious felony charges within Miami’s judicial system. Knowledge of local laws, strong negotiation skills, and a track record of successfully navigating complex cases are essential. At Beckham Law Firm, we provide our clients with dedicated attorneys who have decades of collective experience, including backgrounds as prosecutors and public defenders—offering clients a unique advantage in strategizing their defense. It's essential to choose an attorney who prioritizes client communication and transparency, ensuring your needs and concerns are at the forefront of the defense strategy.
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How Are Murder Cases Typically Resolved In Miami?
Murder cases in Miami can be resolved through various means, depending largely on the evidence, individual circumstances, and defense strategy. Most cases go through a pretrial process where negotiations occur, potentially resulting in plea agreements that could spare the accused from maximum sentencing. However, when evidence strongly favors the defense, going to trial might be the best option. At Beckham Law Firm, our team is equipped with the knowledge and experience of Miami's courts to leverage opportunities for case resolution that benefit our clients. By understanding the specifics of each case, we aim to achieve outcomes such as charge reductions or trial dismissals, while maintaining the integrity of our client's rights and reputation.
What Should I Do If I Face a Criminal Charge?
The criminal courts in Miami-Dade County have their own procedures, prosecutors,
and judges. Familiarity with these local dynamics can give your defense a significant
edge. A Doral criminal defense attorney understands the nuances of the regional court
system, giving your case the tactical advantage it needs.
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
Why Trust Our Aggravated DUI Lawyer in Kendall
When you choose our team, you work with advocates who communicate openly and keep you informed at every step.
- Decades of local experience: Our attorneys have practiced criminal law throughout Miami-Dade County for generations, building long-standing relationships with courts, judges, and prosecutors in Kendall.
- Credentialed legal team: Our senior attorneys hold AV Preeminent® ratings from Martindale-Hubbell, and our firm maintains an A+ BBB rating, underlining our commitment to quality, reliability, and ethical standards.
- Over 10,000 criminal cases managed: We have guided thousands through complex legal challenges, always applying insight from both defense and prosecution perspectives.
- Accessible, bilingual service: Connect any time, day or night, for guidance in English or Spanish. Consultations are free and can be scheduled virtually for your convenience.
Our exclusive commitment to criminal defense means every aggravated DUI case receives focused attention from attorneys who know the Miami-Dade process inside and out. We believe clear, direct communication builds trust, so we answer your questions quickly and explain what to expect in plain language. Our relationships with local court staff provide valuable insights into the process, helping you feel prepared from start to finish.
Don't risk mandatory jail and felony penalties. Call (786) 244-8010 or reach out online to discuss your case with an aggravated DUI attorney in Kendall who is a skilled litigator and boasts a 90% success rate.
hear how we made a difference
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"They went above and beyond with closing everything in a timely manner."
The staff at Beckham Solis did an amazing job handling my case. They went above and beyond with closing everything in a timely manner. They were very reasonable with pricing and very flexible with payment. Barbara was very helpful answering any questions or concerns that I had. I highly recommend these law professionals to handle any legal matters you may need resolved.
- Joel D. -
"They made a difficult situation better."Few years back I ran into some legal trouble and was recommended to Beckham Solis by a friend. I had never had to deal with any of this so, it was quite terrifying, to be honest. I walked into his office a nervous wreck, walked out confident and taken care of. Great service. Answers all calls whenever you need help and advice; they made a difficult situation better. I greatly recommend this firm the best !- Carlens E.
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"Great response rate, amazing customer service."Beckham Solis, Attorneys at Law, has always been available to answer all my questions. They offer a great response rate, amazing customer service, and a team that genuinely cares about its clients. Thank you, everyone, for everything!- Fabrizio Q.
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"Professional, attentive, and efficient."Service has been top-notch since February. Beckham Solis, Attorneys at Law, are professional, attentive, efficient, experienced, and qualified. My case was quickly resolved, and I'm very thankful. Extremely happy with the outcome and highly recommend this firm.- Carolina G.
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"Experience, expertise, and support."I worked with Beckham Solis, Attorneys at Law, for two years. Their experience, expertise, and support helped me make the best decision to save my life. I was facing serious time, but it was all adjudicated. They got me out of the worst time of my life. Th- J.D.
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"Knowledgeable, skilled professionals!"I'm so happy I found these lawyers on the Internet. I was very nervous and scared when I walked into the office, thinking a bad outcome could change my life drastically. They were able to get my case dismissed! I highly recommend Beckham Solis, Attorneys a- Leonel D.
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"Thanks to their experience and hands on attitude my case was dismissed."
I highly recommended Beckham & Solis, for a top notch professional & straight forward criminal defense representation. They are fast, on point & available at anytime. Thanks to their experience and hands on attitude my case was dismissed. It is a total life changer. Thanks so much to the whole team you are the Best!
- Luis C. -
"Top notch attorneys and staff that are fully committed."
Top notch attorneys and staff that are fully committed to walking you through every step of the legal process. I would recommend this legal powerhouse to anyone who is seriously looking to challenge their case and expecting a positive outcome. Thank you for everything Beckham and Solis!!
- Steve B.
