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The Alexander Building , 535 Central Ave, Suite 314, St. Petersburg, Florida 33701
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Established Attorney Represents Felony DUI Clients in St. Petersburg, Florida with a Thorough Approach

Comprehensive assistance when the punishment for driving under the influence is most severe

Any person arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs faces serious charges. When the circumstances surrounding a DUI arrest raise the charge to felony status, the stakes are even higher. Felonies are serious crimes, typically murder and other violent acts including armed robbery. But even DUI can be a felony when Florida law deems the situation of such significance that the punishment applicable to misdemeanors is insufficient. If you are charged with felony DUI, your freedom is under threat of an extended period of potential imprisonment. The harsh impact of a felony DUI conviction demands that you seek legal assistance from an attorney who has handled numerous felony cases. At the law office of Joseph Montrone, Jr., P.A., I have handled many felonies, as both a defense lawyer and a prosecutor.

Defending felony DUI charges of all types with vigor and purpose

Under Florida law, your DUI arrest can lead to felony charges in various circumstances. These generally relate to the number of previous DUI convictions on your record and the severity of any injury you cause while driving under the influence, including the following:

  • Third DUI conviction within 10 years — Results in a third-degree felony charge and up to five years’ imprisonment and/or a fine of not more than $5,000
  • Fourth or subsequent DUI convictions — A third-degree felony with the same penalties as a third DUI conviction within 10 years
  • Causing serious bodily injury while DUI — Results in a third-degree felony charge with up to five years’ imprisonment and/or a fine of not more than $5,000
  • DUI manslaughter — Results in a second-degree felony charge for which you may receive up to 21 years’ imprisonment and/or a fine of no more than $10,000 (if you leave the scene after DUI manslaughter, it becomes a first-degree felony with imprisonment up to 30 years)
  • Vehicular homicide — Results in a second-degree felony with potential fines and imprisonment similar to DUI manslaughter (leaving the scene of a vehicular homicide is a first-degree felony for which you can be sentenced to up to 30 years in prison)
  • Driving while license suspended — Results in a third-degree felony if you cause death or serious bodily injury to another person while driving

A second DUI offense may not be a felony, but it carries significant consequences including fines, imprisonment and license revocation. Your implied consent to take a breath, blood or urine test means that refusal to do so results in a suspension of your license. A second or subsequent refusal to submit to a breath, blood or urine test means a license suspension for 18 months.

The possibility of being sentenced to prison for several years or longer if charged with a felony DUI makes it critical for drivers who find themselves in this situation to seek the assistance of a criminal lawyer. St. Petersburg area drivers need a DUI defense attorney on their team to protect their rights and defend their interests.

Get help if charged with felony DUI from a St. Petersburg, FL criminal defense attorney

At the law office of Joseph Montrone, Jr., P.A., I provide spirited defense of felony DUI charges with a keen appreciation for the serious consequences you face. A free initial consultation is available. Contact me online or call my office at 727-888-0102.