Melbourne DUI Defense Lawyer
Helping Drivers Fight DUI Charges Across Brevard County
At Steven G. Casanova, P.A., we know what is at stake after an arrest for driving under the influence (DUI). As such, we work to the fullest extent of our professional and ethical abilities to secure a satisfactory outcome for each client. The law can be unforgiving, and the legal system can often feel impersonal and isolating. We can protect your rights during this time so you can move on after a run-in with the law. We know exactly what is needed to create a compelling, creative, and effective defense strategy. No matter how complex your case may be, know that you have protection under the law. No amount of evidence can take away your right to have an experienced criminal defense lawyer who understands the unique challenges of a DUI charge at your side.
What penalties could I be facing?
As in many states, Florida prosecutors are determined to penalize convicted DUI offenders harshly to eradicate unwanted behaviors that pose a risk to the public. While law enforcement may be doing their best to keep the roads safe, many individuals have been wrongfully arrested or penalized unfairly. Understanding the specific penalties and consequences of a DUI conviction in Florida is essential for anyone facing such charges.
Immediate Consequences
- Arrest and booking: After a DUI arrest, you will be taken into custody, booked, and may spend time in jail before being released on bail.
- Administrative suspension: Regardless of the outcome of your criminal case, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) may impose an administrative suspension on your driver's license.
Legal Penalties
First offense: A first-time DUI conviction carries several penalties that can significantly impact your life. These include:
- Fines: First-time fines can range from $500 to $1,000. If your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is over 0.15% or if a minor is in the vehicle, fines can increase to between $1,000 and $2,000.
- Imprisonment: From 6 months up to 9 months if the BAC is over 0.15% or if a minor is in the vehicle
- License suspension: Minimum of 180 days and up to 1 year
- Probation: Up to 1 year with mandatory DUI school and community service requirements
- Vehicle impoundment: Mandatory 10-day vehicle impoundment
Second offense: A second DUI offense brings harsher consequences, especially if it occurs within five years of the first. The penalties include:
- Fines: Ranging from $1,000 to $2,000. For BAC over 0.15% or if a minor is in the vehicle, fines can reach $2,000 to $4,000
- Imprisonment: Up to 9 months. If within five years of the first offense, a minimum of 10 days in jail with at least 48 hours of consecutive confinement
- License suspension: Minimum of 5 years if within five years of the first offense (hardship reinstatement possible after one year)
- Probation and DUI school: Mandatory continued education and potential treatment programs
- Vehicle impoundment: 30 days for a second offense within five years
Third offense: A third DUI offense within 10 years brings severe penalties, reflecting the seriousness of repeated offenses. These include:
- Fines: Between $2,000 and $5,000. With BAC over 0.15% or if a minor is in the vehicle, no less than $4,000
- Imprisonment: Up to 12 months. If within 10 years of prior convictions, imprisonment of no less than 30 days with at least 48 hours of consecutive confinement
- License suspension: Minimum of 10 years (hardship reinstatement possible after two years)
- Vehicle impoundment: 90 days if within 10 years of the previous offenses
Fourth or subsequent offense: Multiple DUI offenses result in the most severe penalties possible. They include:
- Fines: No less than $2,000
- Imprisonment: Up to 5 years as a habitual/violent offender
- Permanent license revocation: No eligibility for hardship reinstatement
Long-Term Consequences
Beyond immediate legal repercussions, DUI convictions can have enduring effects on various aspects of your life:
- Criminal record: A DUI conviction remains on your criminal record permanently, potentially affecting employment opportunities, housing, and more
- Increased insurance rates: Expect significantly higher auto insurance premiums.
- Financial burden: Costs associated with fines, legal fees, DUI school, substance abuse courses, and potential loss of income
- Impact on personal life: Strained personal relationships and community stigma
If we are able to determine that a sobriety test yielded inaccurate results, or if an officer violated a search and seizure regulation, we can file a motion to suppress evidence against you. Our tireless approach to defending the accused has helped our clients secure favorable outcomes where other attorneys have failed.
Call Our Melbourne DUI Defense Lawyer After an Arrest
Without the right representation on your side, a DUI conviction can be a very real possibility. Even if you failed or rejected a sobriety test, do not assume that you will be convicted of DUI. Attorney Casanova is a certified breath test maintenance technician and a certified Intoxilyzer 5000 operator. He knows how to challenge any evidence that has been gathered against you, review police reports, and refute evidence presented by the prosecution.
Call our Melbourne DUI defense lawyer at (321) 234-9006 today for a free case consultation.
Our Reviews
Our Past Clients Share Their Stories
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If you are ever unfortunate enough to get a DUI, I hope you are fortunate enough to get Mr. Casanova to represent you. Steve has a wealth of experience with DUI cases and was able to get a last minute agreement to eliminate one of the penalties in exchange for a charitable donation. He is also very personable and makes himself available whenever you want information or advice.- Former Client
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I hired Steve not once but twice. One of my favorite things about him is his energy in the court room and the rooms energy when he is in it, he has been working in Brevard for many years and has built a great relationship with “the other side”; the judges, state attorneys, so on and so forth.My other favorite thing was his ability to get me and my loved one out of a lot of trouble. Steve not only handled my fathers’ case perfectly, but my case as well. He was attentive, personable yet professional , truly a pleasure to work with and If I ever need assistance again , I’m going to Casanova!- J Scott
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I honestly couldn’t have picked a better lawyer to represent me. His confidence and knowledge of the law will put anyone he speaks to at ease. His staff was diligent and responsive to any concerns we had as well. He truly cares for his clients and the end results show. I’m so thankful to have had such a pleasant experience with Mr. Casanova!- Brittany M
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I have had extensive experience with criminal defense attorneys (from $1,000 attorneys all the way up to the $100,000 attorneys) and can attest that Mr. Casanova is the best in town. He and his staff are top-notch. Mr. Casanova will hold your hand when you need it, but "tell you how it is!" It's rare to find such an honest attorney, especially one who is so talented. He is not a "bottom dollar" attorney, but his pricing is more fair than anyone in town, and he will not take advantage of you in your time of need like most attorneys in Brevard. He is highly respected by the state attorney's office, and is able to negotiate favorable resolutions, but this guy is darn-sure ready to go the distance when you have a strong case. I have sought his expert guidance numerous times, referred him to friends and acquaintances, and even my own family members. I HIGHLY recommend Mr. Casanova for any and all criminal (and traffic) matters. I wish this comment box was larger, because there simply is not enough room for all the good I have to say about this man. Simply the BEST.- Former Client
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I recently referred a client to attorney Steven Casanova and I could not be happier with the result he obtained. Mr. Casanova's knowledge of criminal law and procedure, his years of experience in the courtroom, his great communication skills, the respect he has among his peers, his quick and timely responses to questions and concerns, and his true compassion for his clients makes him an extremely effective lawyer. Using these traits and his ability to strategize and negotiate, he recently and quickly achieved the best possible result for my client who I referred to him for criminal defense in a felony case. Way to go Steve! We all are extremely grateful.- Pamela
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Mr. Casanova and the staff in his office handle everything for your case and do so in a friendly professional manner. The work Mr. Casanova did for my case was outstanding with results far better than I could have hoped for. If I ever find myself in trouble again, there will be no research needed, I will IMMEDIATELY call Mr. Casanova's office. I suggest if you find yourself needing legal representation, you do the same.- Mike L.
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Mr. Casanova was very helpful. I could tell he wasn't money hungry. Most common folks are not fortunate to have a huge savings. The information he gave me was very accurate after researching. He easily could have taken advantage of a mother who has never experienced anything with the law if wanted to. When I asked about cost he simply said if your not satisfied with a public defender call me back. I felt he was sincere and honest in his answers. I think my gut is on point and will contact his office if I'm in need.- Sophia
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I highly recommend Attorney Stephan Casanova, P.A. He is an accomplished attorney who takes his work seriously and to heart. He was truly interested in our case and made himself available at all times to our family. I will be forever grateful for his wisdom and true kindness. YOU DESERVE MORE THAN FIVE STARS !!!!!!!!- jude d