DUI charges happen to people from all walks of life. While the state recognizes the inherent risks a person takes when getting behind the wheel while under the influence, it also acknowledges that sometimes people make mistakes.
If you’re a first-time offender who has been charged with drunk driving in Florida, you may qualify for the Back on Track DUI program. A non-profit organization, in conjunction with the state attorney’s office, oversees the program. The program enables first-time offenders to avoid having a DUI conviction on their record.
Once you have completed the program, your charge will be reduced to reckless driving. Your charge will also include withholding of adjudication. This means you will avoid having points added to your driving record. It also means that you may be able to have your reckless driving charge sealed or expunged at some point in the future.
Qualifying for the program
Ultimately, your eligibility for this program will be determined by the state attorney’s office. However, there are some basic qualifications that you must meet. The circumstances surrounding your DUI arrest must include:
- No alcohol-related accident
- No minors in the vehicle
- No injuries to any passengers
- No open containers
- No prior DUI convictions
Admission to the program will require you to complete the terms of the program. Attending alcohol education classes is mandatory. You will also have to submit to a substance abuse evaluation and perform community service. You may also have to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle, depending on your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) reading.
Admission to the program isn’t a guarantee. You should always take the time to discuss your options with a skilled legal professional.