Enhanced DUI Penalties in Pensacola

Defense for High-BAC DUI & Minor Passenger Allegations

Florida imposes increased penalties when a DUI allegation involves a BAC of 0.15 or higher or a minor passenger. Michael J. Griffith, P.A. represents Pensacola individuals facing these allegations, with an individualized review of the evidence, circumstances, and client objectives.

We’ve represented individuals throughout the Florida Panhandle since 1990. Our firm brings more than 40 years of experience across criminal, civil, and family law matters. We represent individuals rather than government or business interests. Communication is available in Spanish and French for clients who are more comfortable discussing their case in either language.

Call (850) 495-7977 to discuss enhanced DUI penalties in Pensacola and the next steps in your case.

How We Review an Enhanced DUI Case

We confer individually with each client before developing a legal strategy. During that conference, we examine the facts, discuss the client’s objectives, and explain the legal rights and options involved. We continue to provide status updates throughout the legal process.

A DUI case review generally examines the evidence offered to establish impairment or a prohibited alcohol level. Relevant issues can include the circumstances of the traffic stop, the arrest, and any blood, breath, or urine testing. The appropriate analysis depends on the available evidence and the legal and factual questions it raises.

We use available resources to prepare cases, including collaboration with credible experts and specialists when appropriate. Criminal proceedings arising in Pensacola and Escambia County fall within Florida’s First Judicial Circuit. Arraignments and other court proceedings are commonly held at the M. C. Blanchard Judicial Center.

Criminal & Administrative Proceedings

The criminal DUI case and the administrative driver-license suspension are separate matters. The criminal proceeding addresses the charged offense and potential court-imposed penalties. The administrative process addresses driving privileges under its own procedures and deadlines.

When Florida Increases DUI Penalties

Under Florida Statute § 316.193, the state may establish DUI through impairment of normal faculties or a blood or breath alcohol level of 0.08 or higher. Florida doesn’t designate a separate offense formally named “aggravated DUI” for every serious allegation. Instead, certain circumstances increase the penalties attached to a conviction.

Enhanced first-offense penalties apply in either of these circumstances:

• The BAC was 0.15 or higher.
• A person under 18 was in the vehicle.

For a standard first offense, the statutory fine ranges from $500 to $1,000, and imprisonment can last up to six months. If the BAC was 0.15 or higher or a minor was in the vehicle, the fine increases to $1,000 to $2,000, and imprisonment can last up to nine months.

A first conviction involving a BAC of 0.15 or higher also requires an ignition interlock device for up to six months. This in-vehicle breath-testing system must register an acceptable result before the vehicle can start. These ranges describe Florida law and don’t predict the outcome of an individual case.

Discuss Your Enhanced DUI Allegations

A confidential discussion can address the allegations, the pending criminal case, and immediate concerns involving your driving privileges. We can review the known facts, explain the processes that may apply, and answer inquiries submitted through our contact form.

Call (850) 495-7977 to speak with us about a high-BAC DUI or DUI with a minor passenger in Pensacola.