Our Panama City Firm Has Much to Offer. Learn Why People Choose Shepard Law.
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.
-
Available 24/7
-
Former Prosecutors
-
Free Initial Consultation
-
Over Four Decades of Experience
-
Superb Rating on Avvo
-
Handled 10,000+ Cases
cLIENT fEEDBACK
Our clients' voices matter. Read about real cases and the positive outcomes achieved with our legal guidance.
-
“The folks at Shepard law are always available to speak with you by phone and or email! They made the disability process seem easy as they navigated through the system timely and effectively. I would recommend this firm to any and all of my friends.”- Darryl W.
-
“This firm is the best all around! I highly recommend Mr Shepard and his staff.”- Amanda D.
-
“Shepard Law was amazing. I worked with Rusty Shepard and Megan Hance. They were a pleasure to work with during a challenging time in my life. They were considerate, kind, non-judgemental, and very effective.”- D. C.
-
“Such a great team! Helped us every step of the way and communication was perfect. So thankful for the help from Shepard Law. My family and I are very pleased with their work. Definitely recommend. Good work guys!”- Karen B.
-
“They gained my trust day one working with them. Everyone here are wonderful at what they do. And anytime I had a question, I sent them an email, and they would call me by close of the business day.”- Raymond V.