What Happens If I Get a DUI In Florida But Live Out of State?

What Happens If I Get a DUI In Florida But Live Out of State?

A great number of tourists visit Florida each year. For most people, visiting Florida is a time for relaxation and letting loose. Unfortunately, some visitors might have one too many drinks and get behind the wheel. If you are charged with a DUI in Florida, you need to take it seriously, whether you live in this state or elsewhere. A DUI conviction will follow you home.

The Interstate Driver License Compact (DLC) is an agreement between participating states (all states with the exceptions of Georgia, Massachusetts, Nevada, Tennessee, Michigan, and Wisconsin) that holds that jurisdictions will be open in exchanging information with one another and reporting out-of-state convictions. In most cases, member states also recognize penalties (such as driver’s license suspensions) that are issued by another state.

What DUI Consequences Will I Face in Florida?

While the state of Florida may not have the right to suspend your actual license, you may face other penalties under Florida law. For example, jail time, fines, and a prohibition from driving within Florida are all possible. The extent of action that will be taken against you by the state of Florida will likely depend upon the severity of your DUI charges, but you can be sure that if there is evidence against you that is strong enough to convict you of the crime, there will be consequences.

If you are convicted, a DUI conviction is almost always reported to your home state. Your home state will suspend your license for as long as the state where the conviction happened requires or the amount of time your home state requires – whichever is longer. If you fail to meet the requirements of the court, such as paying fines and attending an alcohol program, your suspension will remain in effect indefinitely. Suspensions in every state are reported to the National Driver Registry. All states check this registry when issuing or renewing driver’s licenses. If they notice a conviction in another state, they will refuse to issue a license. Your car insurance premiums will likely be much higher after a DUI charge, as well.

You should not try to fight Florida DUI charges on your own. These cases are complex and require extensive knowledge of DUI law. The first thing you should do is hire a knowledgeable Florida DUI defense attorney to help you through a very difficult process.

If you are facing criminal charges in central Florida, do not waste any time. Contact HAWM Law and find out how our lawyers can help protect your freedom.

How Can I Get My Suspended License Reinstated After a Conviction?

The process for getting a driver’s license reinstated can vary from state to state, but the same basic steps are often the same. Having your driver’s license suspended is serious, and the steps for getting it back can be cumbersome. In most cases, you will be able to get your license reinstated – if you have followed all court-ordered requirements and have not been convicted of multiple serious traffic offenses.

You might also consider taking a defensive driving course. Not all states offer or require defensive driving courses to get your driver’s license reinstated, but it is definitely a good idea if your license was suspended for a driving-related reason, and it can help you keep your car insurance rates a little lower.

Finally, pay any remaining fees, and wait. The normal processing time can take up to two weeks in some states.

Contact an Florida DUI Defense Attorney

If you live in a different state and you are facing DUI charges in Florida, contact the experienced attorneys at HAWM Law today.

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