Fort Lauderdale Criminal Attorney Blog
If you’ve been charged with driving under the influence (DUI) in Fort Lauderdale, you may be wondering whether you are facing a misdemeanor or felony charge. The distinction between the two is crucial, as it can greatly impact the penalties you face and the long-term consequences on your life. As a Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorney, I often get asked about this difference and how it affects the defense strategy. 
What Is a Misdemeanor DUI?
In Florida, most DUI charges are classified as misdemeanors. This is especially true for first-time offenders. A misdemeanor DUI generally occurs when someone is caught driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher or is under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination, without causing significant harm to others.
