A DUI conviction entails many consequences beyond those that occur in the courtroom. Some of the immediate consequences of a DUI conviction are fairly well known. For instance, most people probably know that a DUI conviction can lead to:

• Significant Fines
• License Suspension
• Vehicle Restrictions
• Community Service
• Probation
• Jail Time

It is also somewhat common knowledge that you may be required to install an ignition interlock device on your car, paid for out-of-pocket, as a result of a DUI conviction. But while these are probably the most well-known consequences of a DUI conviction, there are other, less commonly known, collateral consequences that naturally flow from a DUI conviction’s interaction with other Florida Statutes.

No Withhold of Adjudication of Guilt

One of the collateral consequence of a DUI conviction comes as a result of Florida’s mandatory adjudication statute. Florida Statute § 316.656 states that a court may not suspend, defer, or withhold adjudication of guilt or imposition of a sentence for any violation of Florida’s driving under the influence statute.

Adjudication Withheld

The difference between a withhold of adjudication and an adjudication of guilt can have various legal implications. A withhold of adjudication is not considered a criminal conviction in certain contexts, and can spare the defendant from some of the collateral consequences of a conviction.

For example, for the purposes of Florida Statute § 790.23, prohibiting convicted felons from possessing firearms, a conviction means an adjudication of guilt. Although an ordinary DUI charge is not a felony, this is just one example of why a withhold of adjudication is preferable to an adjudication of guilt.

Adjudication Not Withheld

Many background checks will only consider adjudications of guilt as convictions. Thus, the fact that adjudication cannot be withheld for a DUI conviction makes the possible consequences even more serious. For example, if you apply for a job, even a few years later, that DUI may show up on your background check.

DUI Insurance

Another often overlooked consequence of a DUI conviction is the financial responsibility requirement. Under Florida Statute § 324.023, anyone convicted of driving under the influence after October 1, 2017, must provide proof of bodily injury liability insurance with the following limits:

• $100,000 per person
• $300,000 per occurrence
• $50,000 for property damage

If you’ve been convicted of DUI, you can provide proof of this coverage through an FR44 form certifying financial responsibility.

How long does a DUI stay on your insurance?

Insurance companies make money by assessing the risk presented by each insured driver and adjusting the rate in accordance with that driver’s risk. Requiring this level of liability insurance as a result of a DUI puts you in the high-risk category in the eyes of insurance companies, and as such, your rates will significantly increase.

Due to the high-risk category, you must maintain this heightened liability coverage for three years from the time that your license is reinstated. Although this heightened liability coverage is only required for three years, the increased insurance premiums can continue beyond that.

DUI Attorney Daytona Beach

All criminal convictions are serious, but a DUI conviction in particular can have consequences and implications that will affect your life for years to come. It is essential that anyone facing a DUI charge seeks counsel from an experienced criminal defense attorney who can navigate this legal minefield. If you or a loved one has been accused of driving under the influence, or any other crime, please do not hesitate to contact our firm to see how we can assist you.

Additional DUI Resources:

• DUI FAQs - Our criminal defense attorneys answer frequently asked questions about Florida DUI Laws.
• DUI for Pilots - When a pilot is charged with driving under the influence, they have more at stake than just their driver's license.
• BAC Calculator - Don't risk a DUI! Estimate your blood alcohol content before you drive home with our BAC Calculator.
• Self-Driving Cars and Florida DUI Laws - Find out if your self-driving Tesla can legally take you home after you've had a few drinks.
• Everything You Need to Know About DUI Checkpoints - Learn everything you need to know about Florida's DUI checkpoints.