Felony DUI Lawyer in Panama City, FL

Charged with a felony drunk driving offense?

If you or someone you love has been charged with a felony DUI offense, it is imperative that you engage the services of a highly skilled defense attorney without delay. The impact of a conviction will last a lifetime. A convicted felon faces not only a long period of incarceration with the worst criminals, the long term impact is significant. You may no longer be eligible for certain professional licenses, or to attend certain schools.

There are very serious ramifications in a felony DUI conviction and the scope of these consequences will impact the rest of your life. It is crucial that you are represented by a highly skilled Panama City felony DUI attorney from Shepard Law. The firm has a reputation as one of the most effective defense law firms in the area, and stands ready to discuss your case. It goes without saying – the firm is 100% on your side.

Types of Felony DUI Offenses

There are several types of DUI charges that are filed as a felony. When it is alleged that you caused an injury accident while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or the death of another person, the charges will be filed as a felony. Vehicular homicide and DUI Manslaughter are both extremely serious felony offenses.

This is a second degree felony, with penalties including fines as high as $10,000, and up to 15 years in state prison. DUI manslaughter or vehicular manslaughter with added charges of leaving the scene will be filed as a 1^st degree felony, and penalties include fines as high as $10,000 and up to 30 years of incarceration in state prison.

Understanding Felony DUI: Repeat Offenses and Serious Injury Cases

Those who have 2 DUI convictions within 10 years, or a 4^th or more conviction will be facing felony DUI charges. The penalties imposed in these cases include fines as high as $5,000, and 5 years in state prison. In cases in which a DUI accident caused serious bodily injury, and the accused is subsequently convicted at trial are facing a third degree felony, with penalties including up to 5 years imprisonment, and enhanced penalties should the person be deemed to be a habitual or violent offender, based upon the existing criminal record of the defendant.

There is also the matter related to driver's license revocation. A third conviction within 10 years, felony DUI will result in 10 years revocation. A fourth conviction, including cases of Murder with a Motor Vehicle will result in a mandatory permanent revocation of the person's driver's license. The court has no other option.

Local Insights on Multiple Offense DUI in Panama City

In Panama City, the consequences of multiple offense DUI charges can be particularly severe, impacting not just your freedom but also your ability to drive and maintain employment. Local law enforcement agencies, such as the Panama City Police Department and the Bay County Sheriff's Office, are vigilant in addressing repeat DUI offenders, which can lead to heightened scrutiny and harsher penalties. Understanding the local legal landscape is crucial for anyone facing these serious charges.

Residents of Panama City often express concerns about the long-term implications of a DUI conviction, especially when it comes to license revocation. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles enforces strict regulations, and a third DUI conviction can lead to a mandatory ten-year revocation of driving privileges. This can create significant challenges for individuals trying to commute to work or manage family responsibilities. Additionally, the emotional and financial stress associated with potential incarceration and fines can be overwhelming.

There are resources available for those struggling with substance abuse in Panama City, such as local rehabilitation centers and support groups. These resources can be vital for individuals looking to address the root causes of their offenses and avoid future legal troubles. Moreover, by engaging with these local entities, individuals can demonstrate their commitment to change, which may positively influence their legal outcomes.

At Shepard Law, we understand the unique challenges faced by residents in Panama City dealing with multiple offense DUI charges. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized legal support, ensuring that your rights are protected while navigating the complexities of the local legal system. We are here to help you explore all available options, including potential plea deals that could lessen the impact of your charges.

License Revocation Consequences for DUI Convictions

For those who are convicted of DUI Manslaughter, there will also be a permanent revocation of driving privileges. In some cases, it may be possible to get a reinstatement after 5 years, but this is not certain, and will be based on the individual case. For DUI with serious bodily injury or vehicular homicide convictions, license revocation is for a minimum of 3 years. Prior convictions will mean 10 years revocation.

Protect Your Rights with Experienced DUI Defense

In any DUI case, whether felony or misdemeanor, you need to ensure your rights are protected. There are few cases that do not have weak points or flaws. You deserve to be represented by an attorney that knows the system and can fight for you. At Shepard Law, the founding attorney is a former Assistant State Attorney and has served in over 6,000 criminal cases. Having worked extensively within the criminal justice system on both sides, Mr. Shepard is extremely skilled in creating a defense case that could be successful in court, as well as negotiating down a charge to a lesser offense when this will benefit the client.

Call now for more information. We are available 24/7 and offer free case evaluations!

Commonly Asked Questions

How does a DUI conviction affect my driving privileges?

A DUI conviction can have a lasting impact on your driving privileges. For instance, a third DUI conviction within ten years leads to a mandatory ten-year revocation of your driver's license. If you are convicted of DUI Manslaughter, your driving privileges will be permanently revoked, although reinstatement may be possible after five years in some cases. It's crucial to understand that prior convictions can extend the revocation period, making it essential to seek legal assistance to navigate these consequences effectively.

Can I reduce my DUI charges to a lesser offense?

Yes, it is often possible to negotiate a reduction of DUI charges to a lesser offense, depending on the specifics of your case. An experienced attorney can identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case and leverage them to negotiate a plea deal that may result in reduced penalties. This could include lesser fines, shorter license revocation periods, or alternative sentencing options. Having a knowledgeable attorney on your side can significantly improve your chances of achieving a favorable outcome.

No Charges Aggravated Assault
ALLEGATION: Client arrested for drive-by shooting and was facing the possibility of a minimum mandatory 15 year prison sentence under Florida's 10-20-Life Law. RESULT: After consulting with with prosecutors and law enforcement NO CHARGES WERE FILED.
Negotiated Plea DUI Manslaughter
ALLEGATION: Client charged with DUI Manslaughter. Client faced up to 15 years prison and a permanent loss of his drivers' license. RESULT: Client entered negotiated plea to probation and is eligible to drive with a hardship license.
Not Convicted Sexual Battery
ALLEGATION: Client who holds a professional certification and license with the State of Florida was accused of Sexual Battery with the possibility of 15 years prison and mandatory "Sexual Offender" designation. Arrest was reported in the Panama City News Herald. RESULT: Charge reduced without consent of victim to simple battery (misdemeanor). Client NOT CONVICTED of any criminal offense and not designated a Sexual Offender. Client able to return to work without loss of professional certification and license
Client NOT CONVICTED Violation of Probation
ALLEGATION: Client violated probation for a second time by failing to report ("absconding"), committing a new crime of Battery, not completing DUI school and failing to complete court ordered community service hours.
Not Convicted Violation of Probation
ALLEGATION: Client violated probation by failing to report ("absconding") and committing a new felony of Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Forgery. Client was on probation for 7 counts of Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Fraud, 6 counts of Forgery, and 6 counts of Criminal Use of Personal Identification.

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