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DUI with Injury in Panama City
Accused of causing injury while driving drunk?
Driving under the influence is a unique type of crime, inasmuch as it is a charge based not on what the defendant did, but on what the defendant might have done. Drinking and driving is classified as a criminal action because it creates a substantial risk of causing injury or death in an accident, but most people who are arrested for DUI have not actually caused anyone to suffer any type of harm. If, however, you have been accused of causing injury in an accident while driving drunk, the penalty you could receive in the event of a conviction will be significantly increased.
Penalties for DUI with Injury in Panama City
The sentence for DUI with injury depends on the severity of injury suffered by the accident victim. For cases where the individual has suffered routine injuries, the offense is charged as a misdemeanor of the first degree, which carries a maximum sentence of one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. When the victim suffers serious bodily injury, the charge is increased to a third-degree felony, punishable by fines of up to $5,000 and a prison sentence lasting five years. "Serious bodily injury" is defined under state law as being any injury which "creates a substantial risk of death, serious personal disfigurement, or protracted loss or impairment of the function of any bodily member or organ." Note: if you are accused of causing fatal injuries, you will be charged with vehicular manslaughter, a felony which carries a sentence of up to thirty years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Defending Charges of DUI with Injury
Whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony DUI, contact the team at Shepard Law, P.A. The firm's lead attorney is a former prosecutor who has handled more than 6,000 criminal cases, and they represent clients from all walks of life, including professionals, business owners and elected officials. Defending your case may involve challenging the evidence that you were under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or raising questions about whether you were actually at fault for causing the accident.
There are many ways to fight the charges, but you must take action now- contact the firm for a confidential consultation and to begin working on the case.
What Sets Shepard Law Apart?
Your case is our priority. We aim for the best outcome.
We understand the complexities of the legal system and the impact on your life. Our focus is on securing your future.
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Available 24/7
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Former Prosecutors
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Free Initial Consultation
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Over Four Decades of Experience
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Superb Rating on Avvo
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Handled 10,000+ Cases
cLIENT fEEDBACK
Our clients' voices matter. Read about real cases and the positive outcomes achieved with our legal guidance.
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“Rusty is very personable and accommodating. He made himself available on short notice and met with me after hours. He told me not to worry and got everything dismissed in court this morning! Thank you Rusty and Lisa!!!”- Lauren
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“Mr. Shepard and his staff are amazing! They went above and beyond to help me. I would not want anyone else on my team! I am young and despite that, he made sure that the judge saw me as a person and not just a young person. He and his office even spent extra time with me and attended to every single thousand question that I had. They could not get a better rating 10 stars!!”- Jessica
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“Shepard Law is truly one of a kind!!! Their team of attorneys and support staff knows criminal law inside and out. They will take a case to trial with no fear and are a force to be seen in the courtroom!!!! They are compassionate and make their clients feel supported every single step of the way. They are flexible with payment options, which allows everyone to be able to receive TOP QUALITY representation. I would absolutely recommend Shepherd Law to any of my friends or family members without hesitation.”- Vanessa M.
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“Shepard Law is truly one of a kind!!! Their team of attorneys and support staff knows criminal law inside and out. They will take a case to trial with no fear and are a force to be seen in the courtroom!!!! They are compassionate and make their clients feel supported every single step of the way. They are flexible with payment options, which allows everyone to be able to receive TOP QUALITY representation. I would absolutely recommend Shepherd Law to any of my friends or family members without hesitation.”- Vanessa M.
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“My wife and I found out on a Monday that we needed a Defense Attorney on Tuesday for a family situation. I called the office and Megan quickly contacted Rusty and he reassured us that he would be at court on Tuesday and he would take care of everything. Those words were the most comforting we've heard as this came up not long after Hurricane Michael. Rusty and his office has no idea how much he helped us and how much we appreciate their quick response. Thank you will never cover how much you guys mean to us.”- Craig E.