Felony DUI Defense Lawyers in Brevard County, Florida 

We understand that facing a felony DUI charge can be an incredibly stressful and overwhelming experience. It's a serious situation that can leave you feeling uncertain about your future. We're here to help, providing the legal support you need during this challenging time. 

The Importance of Hiring an Attorney

When you're charged with a felony DUI, the stakes are significantly higher than with a misdemeanor. Your freedom, livelihood, and future are all on the line. With potential penalties including hefty fines, license suspension, and even prison time, it's crucial to have a seasoned DUI attorney who can advocate for you properly.  

An experienced DUI lawyer will evaluate the evidence, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.

By hiring a legal expert, you're not just gaining representation; you're equipping yourself with a knowledgeable advocate who will fight for your rights and work tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome. 

As experienced, aggressive trial lawyers, we at Gutin & Wolverton can provide the knowledgeable legal defense you need when facing a felony DUI charge. With over 50 years of combined legal experience, we know how to get results and strive to ensure our clients receive a fair and reasonable defense. 

How We Can Help

At Gutin & Wolverton, our approach to handling felony DUI cases is comprehensive and detail-oriented. We begin by thoroughly examining every aspect of your case, from the initial traffic stop to the evidence collection process. Our legal team will: 

• Challenge Evidence: Question the accuracy of breathalyzer tests, the legality of the traffic stop, and any other evidence that was obtained in violation of your rights. 

• Negotiate with Prosecutors: Use our extensive experience to negotiate lesser charges or penalties where possible, leaning on our deep understanding of DUI law. 

• Provide Personalized Support: Offer support and guidance throughout the legal process, ensuring that you are informed and prepared at every step. 

• Build a Strong Defense: Craft a strategy that highlights your case's strengths while mitigating any potential impacts on your life. 

• Represent You in Court: Stand by your side in court, presenting a compelling defense and advocating on your behalf to achieve the most favorable resolution. 

Our goal is to alleviate the pressure you are facing by offering skilled and aggressive representation tailored to the individual needs of your case. 

What Makes a DUI a Felony in Florida?

Not all DUIs are created equal. In Florida, certain circumstances can elevate a DUI from a misdemeanor to a felony. This escalation is usually due to factors such as prior convictions, injuries or death caused by the DUI, having minors in the vehicle at the time of the offense, or operating under a suspended license. 

Prior Convictions 

In Florida, a fourth DUI conviction automatically qualifies as a felony, regardless of the time between offenses. We've seen firsthand how these charges can significantly impact individuals' lives and we're committed to helping you navigate through the legal process. 

DUIs involving Injuries or Death 

Another circumstance that can escalate a DUI to a felony is if the incident results in injury or death. These cases are particularly serious and can carry severe penalties. At Gutin & Wolverton, we're experienced in handling such complex cases, providing aggressive representation for our clients. 

DUIs With Children in the Car 

Driving under the influence with children present in the vehicle can also result in a felony DUI. The law takes this very seriously, and so do we. We will work tirelessly to protect your rights and ensure you receive fair treatment under the law. 

DUI With a Suspended License 

Operating a vehicle while under the influence and with a suspended license is another circumstance that can result in a felony DUI. This situation can be quite complicated, but we're here to guide you every step of the way. 

BAC of .20% or More

In Florida, having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .20% or more can result in a felony DUI charge. This is double the standard legal limit of .08%. If you're facing such a charge, we're here to help. 

Penalties of Felony DUIs

Felony DUI convictions come with significant legal consequences, much harsher than those for misdemeanor DUIs. These penalties vary depending on the details of the offense and the number of previous convictions. Some of the key penalties include: 

• Lengthy Imprisonment: A felony DUI can result in a prison sentence ranging from a year to several decades, especially in cases involving serious injury or death. 

• Substantial Fines: Fines for felony DUIs can be hefty, sometimes exceeding $10,000. 

• License Revocation: Felony DUI offenders can face long-term revocation of their driving privileges, and in some cases, permanent revocation. 

• Mandatory Treatment Programs: Courts often require completion of alcohol or drug treatment programs at the offender’s expense. 

• Vehicle Impoundment or Forfeiture: The offender’s vehicle may be impounded or seized. 

• Installation of an Ignition Interlock Device: Offenders may be required to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicles, which prevents the car from starting if the driver's BAC is above a set limit. 

• Criminal Record: A felony conviction leads to a permanent criminal record, which can affect future employment, housing opportunities, and more. 

It's important to consult with a knowledgeable DUI attorney who can help mitigate these penalties or argue for alternatives such as probation or community service, where appropriate. Gutin & Wolverton is prepared to advocate on your behalf for the best possible outcome in your case. 

Felony DUI Defense Attorneys in Bevard County, Florida

When facing a felony DUI charge in Brevard County, Florida, don't face it alone. At Gutin & Wolverton, we're ready to stand by your side, providing the strong, effective representation you need. We're not just any law firm; we're a boutique law firm that gets to the point and doesn't overcharge. Reach out to us today and let us help you navigate through this difficult time. Your future is too important to leave to chance. Call us now.