Fighting The Elevated Consequences Of A Felony DUI
When facing a driving under the influence (DUI) charge, there are certain instances in which you may be charged with a felony instead of a misdemeanor. A felony DUI comes with increased penalties, and you need an increased defense strategy to overcome your charges.
At the Finkelstein Firm, P.A., I help my Clearwater clients pursue the optimal outcomes in their DUI charges. My name is Jenna Finkelstein. I am as committed to my clients’ cases as they are, and I have the skills and experience necessary to defend them.
What Qualifies As A Felony DUI?
Not every DUI case will come with felony charges, but you may be surprised to learn what can qualify as a felony. Some of the factors that warrant a felony DUI arrest are as follows:
- Third DUI within 10 years
- Fourth DUI offense
- DUI involving serious bodily injury
- DUI manslaughter
Felony DUI injury cases involve situations in which a person who is in control of a motor vehicle and meets the criteria for DUI causes or contributes to an injury to any person, including the driver, that causes a physical condition with a substantial risk of death, serious personal disfigurement, or protracted loss or impairment of the function of any bodily member or organ. If a person in control of a motor vehicle meets the criteria for DUI and causes the death of another person – including an unborn child – whether directly or indirectly, then that will also be a felony DUI.
During your case evaluation, I will discuss which injuries may qualify as “serious bodily injury” under Florida law based on experience.
Although your intention may not have been to hurt another person, this charge carries significant and life-changing penalties. Your intent will not deter a criminal charge when it comes to the death of another individual in a case of this nature. Felony DUI charges, as mentioned above, carry greatly increased penalties. You’ll want to talk to an attorney as soon as you are able to do so.
Act Now To Defend Your Future
I understand that facing a criminal charge can be frightening and overwhelming. Due to the potential consequences associated with the crime of felony DUI, it is imperative that you speak with an experienced defense lawyer right away. I have years of combined experience defending citizens charged with felony DUI. I have the knowledge and skills to fight for the best results possible in your case, and I am accessible and dependable when you need me the most.
Call 727-202-4418 or reach out to me online to schedule a free analysis of your case at my local office, located in Clearwater. I handle cases in Pinellas County and the surrounding areas, including Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota, Pasco and Polk counties. It is crucial to learn your legal options if you have been accused of felony DUI. Let me start working for you today.