November 21, 2016
Florida is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. People from all over the country and world flock to Florida throughout the year in order to get away and enjoy themselves. Some individuals enjoy themselves a little too much and consume large amounts of alcohol. When those individuals step behind the wheel of a car, they put the lives of others in danger as well as run the risk of facing criminal charges.
Sometimes, out of state drivers find themselves leaving Florida with not just sunshine and souvenirs, but also with a DUI charge/conviction. This overwhelming scenario is unpleasant and is one that can have a lasting impact back home.
Many out of state drivers who are charged with DUI in Florida are required to leave the state before their matter is resolved. The distance not only makes resolution much more cumbersome, it also places added stress in having to deal with the expensive possibility of returning to Florida.
Suspended Driving Privileges
Florida law allows for a variety of penalties to be assessed against those individuals convicted of DUI. Among those penalties, drivers convicted of DUI may find their driving privileges suspended. This includes all drivers, even those who are out of state drivers.
An out of state driver faces potential driving suspensions not only in Florida but also back in his or her home state. St. Petersburg may find that an out of state driver convicted of DUI in Florida is prohibited from driving for a period of time. This suspension could potentially be enforced in the driver’s home state as Florida is party to the National Driver Register (NDR). The 45 member states to the NDR have agreed to recognize driving suspensions enforced in convicting states.
Jail Time
Being an out of state driver does not mean that one will not serve time in jail if convicted of DUI in St. Petersburg. Out of state drivers remain subject to Florida laws. Multiple DUI convictions all but guarantee jail time in Florida and being convicted of a second offense means that an out of state driver may not be returning home for some time.
Contact a St. Petersburg DUI Attorney Today
If you are an out of state driver charged with DUI in the St. Petersburg area, you should know how your rights and privileges may be impacted. You do not need to plead guilty to those charges brought against you and thereby face serious consequences back home. Instead, seek the legal counsel of an experienced attorney to help you best resolve your case. Call the Khonsari Law Group today at (727) 269-5300 and schedule your free consultation.
1 https://klgflorida.com/st-petersburg/st-petersburg-dui-laws/