A DUI charge in Florida becomes much more serious when aggravating factors are involved, such as a high blood alcohol level, an accident with injury, or having a minor in the vehicle. These cases carry enhanced penalties that can include longer jail sentences, higher fines, and potential felony charges.
At Roussos Law Group, we defend clients facing aggravated DUI charges throughout Florida. Our firm understands how prosecutors build these cases — and how to identify procedural and evidentiary weaknesses to protect your rights.
Under Florida Statute §316.193(3) and §316.193(4), a DUI may be charged as “aggravated” if certain factors are present at the time of arrest or crash. These enhancements can elevate a misdemeanor DUI to a felony offense, substantially increasing penalties and long-term consequences.
Common aggravating factors include:
Each of these circumstances can trigger sentencing enhancements, mandatory minimums, or additional sanctions such as ignition interlock devices and community service requirements.
The penalties for an aggravated DUI depend on the nature of the aggravating factor and whether injuries or fatalities occurred.
Possible penalties include:
If the DUI resulted in serious bodily injury, it becomes a third-degree felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison (§316.193(3)(c)(2)).
If the DUI caused a fatality, it can be charged as DUI manslaughter, a second-degree felony carrying up to 15 years in prison (§316.193(3)(c)(3)).
This summary is provided for general educational purposes and may not reflect the most recent statutory updates. Always consult an attorney for guidance about your specific situation.
Aggravated DUI cases often involve technical evidence such as crash reconstruction reports, toxicology results, and medical testimony. At Roussos Law Group, we meticulously evaluate every detail of your case to ensure the evidence meets Florida’s strict legal standards.
Our team reviews:
Because aggravated DUIs often carry felony exposure, you need a defense strategy focused on both legal accuracy and damage control. Our DUI Defense Lawyers understand how the State seeks to prove aggravating factors — and how to effectively counter them.
If you’ve been charged with an aggravated DUI, time is critical. Here’s what you should do immediately:
Any DUI involving a BAC over 0.15%, an accident causing injury or property damage, or a child passenger under 18 can be considered aggravated.
Yes. Even first-time offenders with aggravating factors may face mandatory jail time or felony sentencing.
It can be. DUIs involving serious injury or death are classified as felonies under §316.193(3)(c).
Possibly. DUI, manslaughter, or multiple convictions can result in permanent revocation under §322.28.
Eligibility depends on the specific charge and court conditions. An attorney can advise whether reinstatement is possible.
Our experienced attorneys are ready to guide you through every step with confidence.
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Any DUI involving a BAC over 0.15%, an accident causing injury or property damage, or a child passenger under 18 can be considered aggravated.
Yes. Even first-time offenders with aggravating factors may face mandatory jail time or felony sentencing.
It can be. DUIs involving serious injury or death are classified as felonies under §316.193(3)(c).
Possibly. DUI, manslaughter, or multiple convictions can result in permanent revocation under §322.28.
Eligibility depends on the specific charge and court conditions. An attorney can advise whether reinstatement is possible.
