What Are the Penalties for Criminal Traffic Offenses in Florida?
Criminal traffic offenses in Florida may carry consequences far beyond a traffic ticket. Depending on the charge, a conviction may result in jail or prison time, probation, substantial fines, the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license, and a permanent criminal record.
The potential penalties depend upon the specific offense, the circumstances surrounding the incident, and the driver’s prior history.
Are All Criminal Traffic Offenses Punished the Same?
No.
Florida law recognizes a variety of criminal traffic offenses, and each offense carries its own potential penalties.
Factors that may affect sentencing include:
- The specific criminal traffic charge
- Whether an accident resulted in injury or death
- The driver’s prior driving or criminal history
- Whether alcohol or drugs are alleged to have been involved
- Other circumstances established under Florida law
Every case should be evaluated based upon its own facts.
Can I Lose My Driver’s License?
Yes.
Many criminal traffic convictions may result in the suspension or revocation of your driving privileges.
Depending on the offense and your driving record, you may also be required to satisfy additional legal or administrative requirements before your license can be reinstated.
In some situations, a hardship license may be available.
Can Criminal Traffic Charges Become Felonies?
Yes.
While some criminal traffic offenses are prosecuted as misdemeanors, others may be charged as felonies depending on the allegations.
For example, offenses involving serious bodily injury, death, or certain aggravating circumstances may carry substantially more severe criminal penalties.
The specific charge depends upon the facts of the case and the applicable Florida law.
Can Criminal Traffic Charges Be Reduced or Dismissed?
Every criminal case is different.
Depending upon the available evidence, witness statements, accident reports, and the applicable law, criminal traffic charges may be reduced, dismissed, or resolved through other legal proceedings.
The outcome depends upon the unique facts and circumstances of each case.
Understanding the Long-Term Consequences
A criminal traffic conviction may affect more than your ability to drive.
Depending on the offense, a conviction may impact:
- Your criminal record
- Employment opportunities
- Professional licensing
- Insurance premiums
- Future driving privileges
Understanding the allegations and the potential consequences is an important part of making informed decisions throughout your case.
Work Directly With Attorney Ron Baum
If you are facing criminal charges or have questions about your legal rights, obtaining experienced legal guidance early can make an important difference.
For more than 30 years, Attorney Ron Baum has worked directly with clients throughout Broward County, explaining the legal process, carefully reviewing the facts of each case, and developing a defense strategy based on each client’s individual circumstances.
Attorney Ron Baum offers free consultations and is available to discuss your case, answer your questions, and explain your legal options.
FREE CONSULTATION
Being arrested or charged with a crime can be overwhelming. Understanding your options early can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.