Third-Time DUI in Jacksonville

If you have been arrested for a third-time DUI in Jacksonville, you are facing one of the most serious charges for driving under the influence under Florida law. Unlike first or second offenses, a third DUI—especially within 10 years of a prior conviction—can be charged as a felony. That means steeper fines, longer license suspensions, mandatory jail time, and a permanent criminal record.

At the Law Offices of Jason K.S. Porter, P.A., we know how overwhelming this situation can feel. You may be wondering how this will affect your family, your job, or even your freedom. Our DUI attorneys have the experience and determination to take on tough cases, challenge the evidence, and protect your rights from start to finish.

What Happens After a Third DUI Arrest?

When you are arrested in Jacksonville for a third DUI, the legal system does not treat it like a mistake—it treats it as a pattern. If your previous convictions occurred within the last 10 years, your third DUI will likely be charged as a third-degree felony. Even if your prior offenses were more than 10 years ago, prosecutors may still seek enhanced penalties.

You will likely face immediate arrest and booking, mandatory vehicle impoundment, automatic license suspension, and strict bond conditions or pretrial restrictions. However, you still have legal options. Our legal team could step in quickly to review your case, preserve your rights, and take action to defend your driving privileges.

Penalties for a Third DUI

Florida law imposes harsh penalties for repeat DUI offenders. If this is your third DUI conviction within 10 years, you could face:

  • Felony charges: Third-degree felony
  • Up to five years in prison: Minimum of 30 days mandatory jail time
  • Fines: Between $2,000 and $5,000
  • Driver’s license revocation: Minimum of 10 years
  • Vehicle impoundment: At least 90 days
  • Ignition interlock device: Mandatory for at least two years

Our Jacksonville attorneys understand how to approach third-time DUI cases from every angle. We examine the legality of the stop, the accuracy of any chemical tests, and the procedures followed by police to look for every opportunity to reduce or dismiss the charges.

How We Build a Strong Defense for Third-Time DUI Cases

When defending you for your third DUI, our Jacksonville lawyers focus on weakening the foundation of the prosecution’s case. A few strategies that we may use are:

  • Challenging the traffic stop: Was there legal cause to pull you over?
  • Disputing prior convictions: Were your earlier DUI convictions handled properly, and can they be excluded?
  • Examining the arrest: Did officers read you your Miranda rights or follow correct procedures?
  • Analyzing test results: Were breath, blood, or urine tests administered properly and lawfully?
  • Identifying mitigating factors: Are there medical, environmental, or personal factors that can reduce the penalties?

Our firm includes former prosecutors, law enforcement professionals, and Department of Motor Vehicles hearing officers. We know how the system works and how to push back effectively.

Do Not Miss the 10-Day Deadline

Even if you are facing felony charges, you still have only 10 days from the date of your third DUI arrest in Jacksonville to request a formal review hearing with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. If you miss this deadline, your driver’s license will be automatically suspended, independent of what happens in your criminal case.

We could represent you at this administrative hearing and help fight to preserve your ability to drive while your case is pending.

Call a Jacksonville Attorney for Help After a Third-Time DUI Charge

A third-time DUI in Jacksonville could cost you your license, your job, your freedom, and your future. But you are not alone—and you are not without options. At Problems? Pick Porter!™, we do not back down from difficult cases.

With more than 100 years of combined experience and a deep bench of former DUI prosecutors on staff, we are ready to take your case seriously from day one. Call the Law Offices of Jason K.S. Porter, P.A., to speak with a skilled DUI attorney today.