Sarasota Felony DUI Lawyer
Experienced Defense for Drivers in Manatee & Sarasota Counties, FL
A felony DUI charge is a grave offense. A conviction may result in significant fines and jail time. Having a strong advocate on your side who can thoroughly evaluate your situation and fight for your rights is vital to the outcome of your case.
At McIntosh Law, our felony DUI lawyers in Sarasota have extensive experience with these cases. Our first step is to meet with you to determine whether your charge is a felony. Our attorneys can evaluate the validity of the testing methods used by law enforcement during your arrest and their results.
Additionally, we can examine prior DUI convictions and out-of-state records to determine if they are valid or if we can challenge them in court. This may allow us to have the charges reduced from a felony to a misdemeanor.
Request a consultation with a Sarasota felony DUI attorney at McIntosh Law at (941) 299-0701 or fill out our online contact form. We also serve Lakewood Ranch.
What Makes a DUI a Felony in Sarasota?
A felony DUI sentence includes up to $5,000 in fines and/or up to five years imprisonment.
In Florida, a felony DUI is defined by several different factors, including the following:
- A third DUI conviction within 10 years or a fourth DUI within a lifetime: The sentence includes up to a $5,000 fine and/or five years imprisonment.
- Serious bodily injury caused by driving under the influence: The sentence includes up to a $5,000 fine and/or five years imprisonment.
- Death caused by driving under the influence, either manslaughter or vehicular homicide: The sentence includes up to a $10,000 fine and/or 15 years imprisonment. If you leave the scene after either of these crimes, prison time may increase to 30 years.
For those convicted of felony DUI, additional penalties such as license revocation, mandatory alcohol education programs, and community service often accompany fines and incarceration. It is essential to understand that each case is unique, and the specific circumstances will determine the potential consequences. Our lawyers can provide detailed insights into how these factors might impact your situation, shaping a defense strategy that takes all aspects into consideration.
What Does Sarasota's DUI Landscape Look Like?
Sarasota, located on Florida's Gulf Coast, has a unique landscape when it comes to addressing DUIs due to its bustling tourist areas, nightlife, and transit corridors. Particularly notable are the busy highways such as I-75 and U.S. Route 41, where accidents and DUI stops are frequent.
Understanding the local law enforcement strategies and common checkpoints can be a significant advantage in navigating a DUI charge. Our team at McIntosh Law is well-versed with Sarasota’s specific challenges, offering insight into what defendants might expect when facing a felony DUI.
In addition, Sarasota implements numerous prevention and education programs aimed at reducing DUI incidents. Awareness of these programs is crucial, as they sometimes incorporate efforts to mitigate penal consequences for first-time offenders. Participation in educational programs or community service initiatives can sometimes influence court decisions favorably. At McIntosh Law, we help our clients explore these local opportunities and advise on supplementing legal strategies with proactive rehabilitation efforts, when appropriate.
Skilled Defenders On Your Side Over 100 Years of Combined Experience
Here's What Sets Us Apart
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Deep Local Knowledge & Dedication
With over 25 years serving Manatee County, McIntosh Law is committed to defending our community’s rights with integrity.
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Powerful Team Approach
You don’t just get a lawyer—you get an entire team collaborating for your success. Our attorneys and paralegals have over 100+ years of combined experience.
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Strategic & Experienced Defense
Your case deserves a personalized strategy. Every team member has over twenty years in law, ensuring a skilled, thoughtful defense tailored to your specific case.
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Proven Success
Trusted by thousands, we know what it takes to navigate complex criminal cases, bringing experience and results-driven focus to every stage of your defense.
What is the Impact of a Felony DUI Conviction?
A felony DUI conviction carries consequences that extend well beyond jail time or fines. Many employers conduct background checks and may be unwilling to hire someone with a felony on their record. Housing opportunities can also be limited, as landlords often deny applications from individuals with criminal convictions. Felony DUI convictions result in the loss of firearm rights, and professionals like nurses and teachers may risk losing their licenses. For non-citizens, the immigration impact can be severe, including deportation or denial of naturalization. A Sarasota felony DUI lawyer works not only to challenge the charges but also to help reduce these broader, long-term effects.
What are the Restitution and Civil Suits Involved in Florida DUI Felony Cases?
In Florida, DUI felony cases often go beyond the criminal proceedings, as victims may seek restitution and civil damages for losses incurred due to the offense. Restitution is a court-ordered payment you must make to the victim to compensate for tangible losses such as medical expenses, property damage, or lost wages. This financial compensation is determined as part of the criminal sentencing and aims to make the victim whole.
Victims of DUI-related incidents may also file separate civil suits against offenders. These lawsuits can address a broader range of damages, including emotional distress and pain and suffering, which are not typically covered under restitution. In civil cases, the legal standard is based on a "preponderance of the evidence," a lower threshold than the "beyond a reasonable doubt" standard used in criminal trials.
Understanding how these legal actions could impact your financial situation is essential. Engaging with a felony DUI attorney from our firm can be crucial for navigating these complexities and determining the best path forward in your legal situation.
What are Common Defenses in Felony DUI Cases?
Every case is unique, but some of the most effective defenses our attorneys use include:
- Unlawful traffic stop: If law enforcement had no probable cause to pull you over, the entire case could be dismissed.
- Improper field sobriety testing: These tests are subjective and not always administered correctly.
- Inaccurate BAC results: Breathalyzers are known to be unreliable and require proper calibration and maintenance.
- Medical conditions: Certain conditions can mimic intoxication or affect test results.
- Lack of evidence of impairment: If there is no video, no toxicology, and no clear signs of impairment, prosecutors may have a weak case.
A skilled Sarasota felony DUI lawyer will meticulously examine all evidence and pursue every angle to challenge the prosecution's case.
Why Choose McIntosh Law for DUI Felonies?
Using our team approach to DUI defense, our attorneys can work together to pursue the best possible results. Depending on your situation, we can advocate for reduced sentencing, removal of prior DUI convictions, treatment programs, and other alternative options. If you received a notification about the Florida DUI court, we can also answer your questions regarding this option.
Many DUI felony cases require strategic planning that takes into account both current and potential future implications of one’s legal standing. Our comprehensive team-based approach harnesses the collective knowledge and various perspectives of our experienced attorneys, offering you a dynamic defense that adapts as your case progresses.
We prioritize client education, ensuring you understand each step of the legal process. Our team is available to address your concerns and provide clarity on complex legal issues that arise, ensuring you feel supported throughout the resolution of your case. Transparency and constant communication are key tenets of our client relationships, fostering a cooperative environment where your rights and interests are at the forefront.
Call (941) 299-0701 or contact us online to consult a Sarasota felony DUI attorney today.
