Whether you’re drinking during the holidays or during another time of year, you should never get behind the wheel of a car while intoxicated. Florida’s DUI charges can see you contend with fines, license suspensions, and jail time. The long-term consequences of these charges can even alter your future.
Specifically, DUI charges can affect your holiday travel plans by reducing your budget and limiting your opportunities to travel or see loved ones. If you want to overcome the consequences of an unchallenged DUI, it’s in your best interest to work with the Florida DUI criminal defense attorneys at the Law Office of Robert H. Hanaford to have the charges against you dropped from your record.
DUI Fines Can Limit Your Travel Budget
The fines associated with DUI charges only grow worse with the more convictions you have on your record. If you’re charged with a DUI without any convictions on your record, this alleged misconduct may still cost you up to $1,000. If you get a second or third charge, your fines may even go up to $5,000.
You are obligated to pay these fines if you don’t challenge the DUI charges leveled against you. An unexpected expense like that during the holiday season can make it incredibly difficult to hit the road, particularly if you need to fly or pay for gas.
A Suspended License Can Make Traveling Difficult
According to Florida Statute §316.1932, parties accused of driving under the influence retain the right to refuse a breathalyzer test. State representatives can, however, submit your refusal to take such a test into evidence should your case go to court.
If you refuse a breathalyzer test at the scene and later do not challenge the charges brought against you, the state of Florida can suspend your license for up to 12 months. Should you be charged with your second DUI and refuse a breathalyzer test again, the state may suspend your license for up to 18 months.
You cannot legally drive on a suspended license. It may also prove more difficult to make it through airport security or otherwise travel if your license is suspended and you have no alternative form of ID.
DUIs Can Hinder International Travel
Attempting to travel internationally with an unchallenged DUI on your record may prove difficult. Also, the legislation regarding travel with a DUI changes from nation to nation. For example, Japan’s Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act Cabinet Order No. 319 states that if your DUI sees you in jail time for more than one year, you may be barred from the country. Similarly, Canadian criminal law requires you to seek out a waiver of exclusion if you want to cross the border after a DUI conviction.
If you have international travel plans coming up this holiday season, you should work with an attorney to determine how an unchallenged DUI conviction may impact your travel plans.
How to Challenge a DUI Charge
If you’re facing a DUI charge in the face of holiday plans, don’t panic. While this charge can significantly impact your ability to travel, you can challenge it with help from a Florida criminal defense attorney. You can schedule a consultation with our team and discuss what arguments you can level against the parties trying to put a DUI on your criminal record.
Don’t Let a DUI Ruin Your Holiday Season, Work With Us Today
Most families indulge in wine, beer, or spirits during the holiday season. As such, police officers throughout Florida are on high alert for drunk or otherwise intoxicated drivers. If you’re pulled over and accused of driving while intoxicated, your plans for the holiday season may be abruptly upended.
Fortunately, you don’t have to let a DUI charge go unaddressed. If you want to challenge a charge brought against you, bring your case to the attention of the Law Office of Robert H. Hanaford. You can connect with our DUI criminal defense attorneys by calling our office at (239) 315-9750. We can also discuss your case online via our contact form.
