Reader’s Question:

In January 2008, a friend of mine was convicted for DUI here in Orlando, Florida and got 1 year of probation. In May, he was arrested for a 2nd DUI. Do you have any idea as to how much jail time he will serve and other penalties he may have?

John

Orlando , FL

Regarding DUI penalties in the State of Florida , the following law applies for second conviction:

-Fines
Your friend might be paying a fine of $500-$1000. With a BAC of .02 or higher or with a minor in the vehicle, the fine will be a minimum of $1000, Maximum $2,000.

-Probation
He may be in probation for a minimum of one day, maximum of one year.

-Jail Time
Under Florida DUI Law, your friend may be incarcerated for a minimum of 10 days and a maximum of nine months. If BAC is .02 or higher or with a minor in the vehicle, he mat serve a jail time for a minimum of ten days and a maximum of Twelve Months.

-Driver’s License Suspension
His driver’s license may be suspended for five years. He may be eligible for hardship license reinstatement after 1 year.

-Impoundment
The vehicle may be impounded for 10 days or 30 days if the 2nd DUI is within three years. In his case, this is his 2nd DUI within three years, impoundment will be for 30 days.

-Other Penalties
This would include evaluation for any substance abuse problems, successful completion of an approved DUI Counter Attack School and he may undergo any recommended treatment.