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DUI With Serious Bodily Injury DEFENDERS of Your Rights. Your Life. Your Future.

St. Petersburg DUI With Serious Bodily Injury Lawyer

Experienced Defense Against DUI Causing Serious Bodily Injury Charges in Florida  

Morris Law Firm, P.A. is committed to providing steadfast legal representation for individuals facing DUI charges with serious bodily injury in Florida. Our experienced team of attorneys is well-versed in navigating the complexities of such cases, ensuring a rigorous defense to protect your rights. If you or a loved one is confronted with DUI charges involving severe bodily injury, it is crucial to have a dedicated legal advocate by your side.

Call Morris Law Firm, P.A. today at (727) 592-5885 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our DUI with a serious bodily injury attorney in St. Petersburg!

What is Considered a DUI With Serious Bodily Injury?

A DUI with serious bodily injury in St. Petersburg occurs when an individual operates a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs and, as a result, causes significant harm to another person. Serious bodily injury is defined as an injury that involves a substantial risk of death, severe disfigurement, or protracted loss or impairment of a bodily organ or function.

To establish a DUI with serious bodily injury, the prosecution must demonstrate that the accused was operating the vehicle. At the same time, impaired, and this impairment directly contributed to the injury sustained by another party. This offense is taken very seriously in Florida, and the legal consequences can be severe.

Considering Aggravating Factors

Several aggravating factors can lead to increased penalties or harsher sentences in DUI cases involving serious bodily injury, including:

  • Having one or more prior DUI convictions can lead to enhanced penalties.
  • Having a BAC of 0.15% or higher.
  • Engaging in reckless or dangerous driving behavior, such as excessive speeding or evading law enforcement.
  • Riding a minor in the vehicle at the time of the offense.
  • Not providing assistance to the victim after the incident.
  • Causing serious bodily injury to more than one person.

What are the Penalties for a DUI With Serious Bodily Injury in Florida?

Being convicted of a DUI with serious bodily injury in St. Petersburg can lead to harsh penalties, as the state aims to deter individuals from driving under the influence and causing significant harm to others. The penalties for this offense may include:

  • Criminal Penalties: A DUI with serious bodily injury is typically classified as a third-degree felony. Conviction may result in imprisonment for up to five years, fines of up to $5,000, and probation.
  • Driver's License Suspension: The offender may face a lengthy suspension of their driver's license, limiting their ability to travel freely.
  • Restitution: In addition to criminal penalties, the court may order the defendant to pay restitution to the victim for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and other related damages.
  • Ignition Interlock Device: The court may mandate the installation of an ignition interlock device in the offender's vehicle, requiring a clean breath sample before the engine can start.
  • Probation: Probation may be imposed, during which the individual must adhere to strict conditions, such as attending counseling or substance abuse programs.
  • Permanent Criminal Record: A conviction for DUI with serious bodily injury can have long-lasting consequences, affecting employment opportunities and personal relationships.

It is essential to seek the assistance of a skilled St. Petersburg DUI with a bodily injury lawyer to mount a robust defense against these severe penalties.

Long-Term Consequences of a DUI Conviction in Florida

A conviction can affect various aspects of your future, from employment opportunities to personal relationships.

Many employers conduct background checks, and a DUI conviction can hinder your chances of securing a job, especially in fields that require driving or a clean record. You can also face higher car insurance rates, which can place a significant financial burden on you. Additionally, you could lose your driving privileges and face social stigma, affecting personal relationships and your reputation within the community.

Understanding these long-term consequences can motivate you to seek the best possible defense. Our DUI with a bodily injury attorneys in St. Petersburg is dedicated to protecting your rights and minimizing the impact of a DUI charge on your life. Don't navigate this challenging time alone; let us help you build a strong defense.

Defenses Against DUI With Serious Bodily Injury Charges

Crafting a strategic defense is crucial when facing charges of DUI with serious bodily injury. Morris Law Firm, P.A. employs a comprehensive approach to challenging the prosecution's case and protecting our clients' rights. Some potential defenses include:

  • Challenging the Evidence: We thoroughly examine the evidence, including blood alcohol content (BAC) test results and witness statements, to identify any inconsistencies or errors that may undermine the prosecution's case.
  • Illegal Search and Seizure: If law enforcement violated constitutional rights during the arrest or investigation, we may seek to suppress key evidence, weakening the prosecution's case.
  • Causation: Establishing a direct link between the defendant's impairment and the alleged serious bodily injury is crucial for a conviction. We scrutinize this connection and challenge any weak or speculative evidence.
  • Field Sobriety Test Reliability: We assess the reliability of field sobriety tests and challenge their accuracy, questioning whether external factors may have influenced the results.
  • Witness Credibility: Examining the credibility of witnesses is vital, as inconsistencies or biases can be used to cast doubt on the prosecution's case.

By leveraging these and other strategic defenses, Morris Law Firm, P.A. aims to secure the best possible outcome for individuals facing DUI with serious bodily injury charges in St. Petersburg. Our legal team is dedicated to protecting your rights and advocating for your interests throughout the legal process.

Contact Our St. Petersburg DUI With Serious Bodily Injury Attorney Today

If you or a loved one is confronting DUI charges with serious bodily injury, contact Morris Law Firm, P.A. today for a consultation. Our experienced St. Petersburg DUI with bodily injury lawyers are ready to provide the diligent and effective legal representation you need during this challenging time.

Contact Morris Law Firm, P.A. today to schedule a meeting with our DUI with a serious bodily injury lawyer in St. Petersburg! Call now - (727) 592-5885

Meet The Attorneys Melinda Morris & Seth Shapiro
Attorney Profiles

Why Choose Our Law Firm?

See the Difference Our Service Provides
  • FORMER STATE PROSECUTOR
    Melinda Morris is a former prosecutor and has handled thousands of criminal cases from investigation through sentencing enabling us to identify weaknesses in the State’s case against you.
  • STRATEGICALLY AGGRESSIVE
    We never settle for the easiest outcome or the typical result. We know how to negotiate with the State Attorney and we will work to get you the best possible outcome.
  • TRUSTED & EXPERIENCED
    Melinda Morris has practiced criminal law for over 20 years. Our clients trust advice that comes from experience in nearly every type of criminal case.
  • PERSONAL ATTENTION
    We will know every client’s story because we will take the time to listen and understand. You will work with your attorney one-on-one at every stage of the process.
  • PROMPT COMMUNICATION
    You will have the cell phone number of your attorney. Your attorney will directly return your call, email, or text to answer your pressing questions.
  • SAME DAY REPRESENTATION
    The government is wasting no time in trying to prove your guilt, a proactive defense is imperative. Prompt and decisive action from your defense attorney is of critical importance.

CLient Testimonials

Hear From Real People We've Helped

At Morris Law Firm, P.A., your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

    "Look no further than Morris Law"
    Seth Shapiro is the most professional, courteous, caring attorneys I’ve dealt with in all of my 70 years. He did a fabulous job representing me defending me and getting charges dropped. I couldn’t have dreamed of better counsel.
    - Stephen on AVVO
    "100% satisfied with Morris Law Group."
    100% satisfied with Morris law group. Melinda was able to resolve my legal issues with no additional expenses other than my original retainer. I highly recommend this firm for professional and competent representation.
    - Peter R. on Yelp
    "Best legal representation"
    If you want the best legal representation, look no further than Morris law firm. Melinda reassured me from the very first time we spoke over the phone. She is very professional and keeps you updated on the progress of your case. I really liked that I didn’t have to reach out to her Everything was smooth, straightforward and she put my mind at ease. You’ll be in good hands with her. Thank you Melinda
    - Hassan on Google
    "Thanks to The Morris Law Firm"
    Mr.Shapiro helped my case by looking at the police body cam diligently which supported my testimony . He presented evidence to the prosecutor .I hired Seth Shapiro to defend me after a domestic battery charge in which I was wrongfully accused and arrested. My case was dismissed thankfully. .Couldn't have asked for a better outcome. This was an extreme difficult time for me. Seth Shapiro was knowledgeable and compassionate in my case. He followed up with my concerns. I would highly recommend this firm.
    - Melody Z.
    "Goes above and beyond"
    Melinda has represented me on numerous cases and the outcome has always been great. Melinda goes above and beyond to defend your rights and get you the best possible outcome. I highly recommend hiring her.
    - Shasta on Google
    "They closed my case in a very short terms, for what I'm very grateful."
    Morris Law Firm is a very professional and responsive. They closed my case in a very short terms, for what I'm very grateful. Strongly recommend them especially Seth Shapiro. He decreased my case from felony to misdemeanor in short terms and during 6 months my case was totally closed.
    - Elina P. on Google