Stop DUI Charges on Vacation from Following You Home
You may be concerned about the consequences if you’re charged with a DUI while in Broward County during spring break. Will you be sent to jail in Florida? You could face penalties in Florida and possibly in your home state.
Unfortunately, many visiting college students are unaware of the consequences of a DUI from another state. To avoid serious repercussions, it is important to consult a Florida DUI attorney immediately.
What Florida Law Says About a DUI for an Out-of-State Driver
Florida is part of an interstate system that allows it to share information on traffic violations with other states and coordinate penalties. For example, if you are from Connecticut and get a DUI while in Florida, the information will be sent back to Connecticut so that you can complete any required penalties there.
The following agreements could lead to penalties both in Florida and back home:
- Non-resident Violator Compact (NRVC): The NRVC mandates that participating states report serious traffic violations back to the driver’s home state. Currently, Alaska, California, Michigan, Montana, Oregon, Virginia, and Wisconsin are not part of this compact.
- Driver License Compact: This interstate agreement obliges states to enforce sanctions imposed by the state where the DUI occurred. This often results in a license suspension in your home state if you’re convicted of DUI in another state.
- National Driver Register: Each state has a database containing the driving records of its residents, accessible by law enforcement agencies from other states. If you’re arrested in Florida for DUI, the police can check your driving record to see if there have been any previous violations, suspensions, or DUI convictions.
Consequences for a Florida DUI by a Non-Resident
A DUI in Florida can have serious consequences that extend beyond state lines. You could lose your license, your job, and even scholarships.
Penalties for a DUI in Florida may include:
- Out-of-Pocket Expenses: For a first DUI, the fine can be up to $1,000. You may also have to cover travel costs for court appearances. Out-of-state defendants might need to travel long distances, which can disrupt their lives and increase costs. A good attorney may be able to request that the court reduce the number of appearances required.
- Jail Time: A DUI conviction can result in up to six months in jail, six months of probation, or a combination of both. Your Florida lawyer may be able to convince the court to waive jail time and allow you to complete probation or community service in your home state.
- Increased Sentences: If Florida law enforcement discovers a prior DUI or other driving offense on your record, you could face increased penalties. Depending on the circumstances, your attorney may be able to have the charges reduced or dismissed.
This post was written by a professional at Ticket Shield. Ticket Shield understands that life can sometimes throw unexpected challenges your way. That’s why Ticket Shield is here to help you navigate through legal roadblocks when you need it most. Their team of experienced lawyers specializes in a range of traffic-related legal matters, ensuring you have the best defense possible. Types of teams available:
- Traffic Ticket Lawyer
- DUI Lawyer
- Speeding Ticket Lawyer
- Reckless Driving Lawyer
- Suspended License Lawyer
- Red Light Ticket Lawyer
- Stop Sign Ticket Lawyer
- Seat Belt Ticket Lawyer
Don’t let traffic tickets or driving-related charges weigh you down. Contact our Traffic Ticket Lawyer in Broward County today for a free consultation, and let Ticket Shield be your shield in the legal arena. Your peace of mind is their priority!
