Aggravated DUI Attorney in Orlando

Serious DUI Charges Call For Serious Defense

An aggravated DUI is not a routine drunk driving case. When factors like a very high blood alcohol level, prior DUIs, an accident with injuries, or a child in the car are involved, you can face harsher penalties and long-term consequences. If you were arrested on an aggravated DUI charge in Orlando, you are likely worried about jail, your license, and your future.

At Ali & Blankner, we focus our criminal defense practice on cases that can change people’s lives, including serious DUI charges. Our aggravated DUI attorneys in Orlando bring decades of courtroom experience together with a calm, strategic approach that helps clients move from panic to a clear plan. We take the time to explain what you are facing and how the process works, so you are not left guessing about your next step.

Our team has more than 85 years of combined legal experience and has represented over 100,000 clients in criminal cases. Every lawyer at our firm is a former prosecutor, and our firm has been recognized among the Nation’s Top One Percent by the National Association of Distinguished Counsel. When your freedom, record, and reputation are on the line, that depth of experience matters.

Need help defending an aggravated DUI charge? Call (407) 753-1312 or contact us online to speak with an aggravated DUI lawyer in Orlando and get clear guidance on your next steps.

Why People Facing Aggravated DUI Turn To Ali & Blankner

When someone searches for an aggravated DUI lawyer in Orlando, they often feel they cannot afford to make a mistake. The charge is more serious than a first-time DUI, the rules are more complex, and the risk is higher. You need a defense team that understands how prosecutors build these cases and how local courts handle them.

At Ali & Blankner, our attorneys draw on more than 85 years of combined criminal and DUI defense experience. We have represented more than 100,000 people in criminal matters, including cases with enhancements, serious injuries, and repeat offenses. Because every lawyer on our team previously served as a prosecutor, we have seen aggravated DUI cases from both sides. We understand how the State may try to prove aggravating factors and how to look for weaknesses in that approach.

Our work has earned significant recognition in the legal community. Our firm has been named among the Nation’s Top One Percent by the National Association of Distinguished Counsel. Attorney Kendall Ali has been selected to Super Lawyers Rising Stars, holds a 10.0 rating as an Avvo Top Attorney, and was named a 10 Best Attorney in Client Satisfaction by the American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys, as well as a 2025 Nation's Top One Percent by the National Association of Distinguished Counsel. Attorney F. Wesley Blankner, Jr. has been honored as a Ten Best Attorney in Client Satisfaction and listed in The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Lawyers. These independent recognitions reflect our long-term commitment to high standards and client service.

Clients also choose us because of how we work with them. We combine the resources of a larger firm with the attention of a boutique office. You have direct access to your attorney, not only staff, and we maintain consistent communication throughout your case. Our goal is to provide strong advocacy in court and compassionate support outside of it, so you feel heard and informed at every stage.

What Makes an Orlando DUI Charge “Aggravated”

Many people first learn that their DUI is considered “aggravated” when they see the paperwork after an arrest. In Florida, certain facts can increase the severity of a DUI case. These aggravating factors may raise the maximum penalties, change the level of the charge, or affect how a judge views sentencing.

Common aggravating factors can include a very high blood or breath alcohol level, prior DUI convictions, an accident that causes serious bodily injury or death, or having a minor in the vehicle at the time of the stop. Property damage, excessive speeding, or driving with a suspended license can also influence how the case is charged. When one or more of these elements are present, prosecutors may pursue increased penalties under Florida law.

Here in Central Florida, aggravated DUI arrests can arise from a wide range of situations. Some involve collisions on busy roadways, and others follow traffic stops near entertainment and tourist corridors. In each case, the specific facts and any prior history matter. Our aggravated DUI lawyers review those details carefully, because the same legal label, aggravated DUI, can look very different from one case to the next.

Understanding exactly why your charge is considered aggravated is an important first step in building a defense. During a free, confidential consultation, we can walk through your arrest report, explain how Florida’s DUI statutes apply, and discuss what the aggravating factors may mean for you.

Potential Penalties & Consequences of Aggravated DUI

One of the first questions people ask us is about the worst that can happen. Aggravated DUI cases in Florida can carry more severe penalties than standard DUI charges. The exact range depends on factors like your blood alcohol level, whether anyone was hurt, whether you have prior DUI convictions, and how the case is charged.

Possible criminal penalties can include extended jail or prison exposure, higher fines, lengthy probation, community service, DUI school, and mandatory substance abuse evaluations or treatment. In cases involving serious bodily injury or repeat offenses, the State may pursue felony charges, which carry their own set of serious consequences. Sentencing also depends on the judge and the specific circumstances proven in court.

Your driver’s license is also at risk. An aggravated DUI can lead to a longer license suspension or revocation, and in some situations, the court may require an ignition interlock device as a condition of driving. In Florida, you typically have only a short period of time after an arrest to request a hearing with Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, which is separate from the criminal case. Missing that deadline can limit your options for driving.

Beyond the courtroom, an aggravated DUI can affect employment, professional licenses, immigration status, housing, and insurance costs. Many clients worry about passing background checks or keeping the job they have. Our role is to explain how these consequences may apply in your situation and to work toward outcomes that reduce the long-term impact as much as possible, within the limits of the facts and the law.

How Our Former Prosecutors Defend Aggravated DUI Cases

Once you understand the stakes, the next question is what can be done. Our aggravated DUI attorneys in Orlando approach the defense in a structured and thorough way. We start by gathering and reviewing all available evidence, including police reports, body camera or dash camera footage when available, breath or blood test records, and any witness statements.

Because we are former prosecutors, we are familiar with how the State tends to build aggravated DUI cases. We look closely at the reason for the traffic stop, the way field sobriety exercises were given, and whether officers followed required procedures. We examine how breath or blood samples were obtained and maintained, and whether there could be issues with the testing equipment or medical conditions that affect the results.

In cases involving serious injuries, high blood alcohol levels, or complex scientific evidence, we may work with qualified toxicology specialists or other expert witnesses where appropriate. These professionals can help analyze lab data, evaluate whether testing met accepted standards, or reconstruct aspects of a crash. We also look for legal issues, such as potential suppression arguments or challenges to how aggravating factors are charged.

Our goal is to identify the strongest available defenses and to use them to seek the best possible resolution, whether that means contesting the charges in court, working to have certain enhancements reduced or removed, or negotiating for alternatives that limit jail time and protect driving privileges when possible. Throughout this process, we keep you informed, explain your options in plain language, and help you make decisions that align with your priorities and risk tolerance.

Defending Your Case Step By Step

Every aggravated DUI case follows its own path, but there are common steps we often take. We review the initial stop to see whether law enforcement had a lawful basis to pull you over. We analyze how any roadside tests were conducted and whether your rights were respected at each stage. If blood or breath tests are involved, we look at how those samples were collected, stored, and analyzed.

As we identify issues, we discuss them with you and explain how they may affect the case. In some situations, it may make sense to file motions challenging evidence. In others, we may focus on negotiations with the State to address specific aggravating factors. Our defense strategy is built around your circumstances and goals, not a one-size-fits-all approach.

What To Do After an Aggravated DUI Arrest

The hours and days after an aggravated DUI arrest can feel chaotic. Taking a few concrete steps can protect your rights and put you in a better position as the case moves forward. Even if you have already been released from custody, there are actions you can take now.

Immediate Steps To Protect Yourself

First, keep all paperwork you received, including the citation, bond documents, and any notice related to your driver’s license. These documents typically list your first court date, often called an arraignment, and may contain information about license suspension. It can be helpful to write down what you remember about the stop and arrest while the details are still fresh.

Second, be very cautious about what you say and to whom. You have the right to remain silent, and statements you make to law enforcement, other drivers, or even on social media can be used as evidence. It is usually best to avoid discussing the details of your case with anyone other than your attorney. If insurance companies or other parties contact you, you can let them know you prefer to speak after consulting with counsel.

Acting Quickly On License Issues

Third, pay attention to license deadlines. In many DUI cases, you have a limited time to request an administrative hearing with the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. If that deadline passes, your options for challenging a suspension are more limited. During a consultation, we can review your paperwork, calculate the relevant time frames, and explain what steps are available.

Finally, reach out to a defense team as soon as you can. The sooner we become involved, the sooner we can start collecting information, advising you about bond conditions, and preparing for your first appearance in court. We offer free, confidential consultations and are available by phone at any time, so you can get your questions answered without delay.

Aggravated DUI Cases in Local Courts

Aggravated DUI cases in this region are typically handled in the county or circuit courts that serve Orange County and nearby Central Florida communities. The exact court that hears your case generally depends on where the arrest took place and whether the charge is filed as a misdemeanor or a felony. Your paperwork should list the courthouse and division assigned to your case.

In addition to the criminal case, many clients must deal with separate administrative proceedings related to their driver’s license. These proceedings usually involve the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles and can include hearings on suspensions or revocations. The outcome of the criminal case and the administrative process can interact, so it helps to have one defense team that understands both tracks.

Our aggravated DUI lawyers have been licensed in Florida for decades. Attorney F. Wesley Blankner, Jr. has practiced in the state since 1977, and Attorney Kendall Ali since 2010. Over that time, we have appeared regularly in courts that serve the Orlando area and Central Florida. This long-standing presence helps us understand local procedures, scheduling practices, and expectations, and we use that knowledge to guide clients through a system that may feel unfamiliar and intimidating.

What To Expect When You Work With Our DUI Defense Team

Choosing a lawyer is about more than credentials on paper. It is also about how you will be treated and how your case will be handled day to day. When you work with our DUI defense team, you can expect a combination of clear communication, accessibility, and focused advocacy.

Communication & Support Throughout Your Case

From the first consultation, you speak directly with an aggravated DUI attorney, not only staff. We listen to your concerns, review the available information, and provide a candid overview of the issues we see. As your case progresses, we update you on developments, explain upcoming court dates, and discuss the pros and cons of different options so you can make informed choices.

We know an aggravated DUI charge affects your family, your work, and your peace of mind. Our lawyers strive to respond promptly to questions and to be available when urgent issues arise. We offer both in-person and virtual meetings to fit your schedule, and we are reachable by phone around the clock for time-sensitive matters.

Clients often tell us that having a steady point of contact helps them feel more in control of a situation that initially felt overwhelming. Our client satisfaction recognitions, including multiple Ten Best Attorney in Client Satisfaction awards, reflect that commitment. We work to pair strong courtroom advocacy with the kind of support and clarity you need during a very difficult time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I go to jail for an aggravated DUI in Florida?

An aggravated DUI increases the risk of jail or prison, but the outcome depends on many factors. Courts consider your blood alcohol level, whether anyone was hurt, whether you have prior DUI convictions, and the exact charges the State files. Judges also look at your overall history and the specific facts presented at sentencing. Our role is to examine the evidence, identify legal and factual issues, and work to pursue outcomes that reduce your exposure where the law and facts allow. During a consultation, we can talk through typical ranges for cases similar to yours and what may influence the result in your situation.

How will an aggravated DUI affect my driver’s license?

An aggravated DUI can lead to longer license suspensions or revocations than a standard DUI, and in some situations, courts may require an ignition interlock device as a condition of driving. In Florida, there is usually a short window after your arrest to request a hearing with the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles to challenge an administrative suspension. The length of any suspension and your eligibility for hardship or restricted licenses depend on factors like your prior record, the test results, and how the case is resolved in court. We can review your paperwork, explain the potential license paths, and help you understand what driving options might be available.

What can a former prosecutor do differently in my aggravated DUI case?

Former prosecutors understand how the State prepares and evaluates aggravated DUI cases, which can be a meaningful advantage for the defense. We are familiar with how officers typically write reports, what issues may concern a prosecutor, and how aggravating factors are proven or challenged in court. This background helps us anticipate the arguments the State is likely to make and the evidence they may rely on most heavily. We then use that insight to scrutinize the stop, the testing, and any alleged injuries, and to develop strategies aimed at weakening the State’s position. Our experience on both sides of the courtroom informs every stage of your case, from negotiations through trial.

I already have prior DUIs. How much worse is an aggravated charge?

Prior DUIs can significantly increase the seriousness of a new case, especially when aggravating factors are present. In Florida, prior convictions can raise mandatory minimum penalties, lengthen license revocations, and, in some circumstances, lead to felony charges. The impact depends on how many prior convictions you have, how recent they are, and where they occurred. When you meet with us, we review your prior record, the timing of each case, and the new allegations to understand the full picture. We then work to identify ways to challenge the current charge and to seek resolutions that limit additional damage to your record and driving privileges, where possible.

What should I do right after an aggravated DUI arrest?

After an aggravated DUI arrest, it is important to act quickly and carefully. Keep all documents you receive, including your citation and any notice about license suspension, and make a note of your first court date. Avoid talking about the details of your case with anyone other than your attorney, and be especially cautious about posting online. There is usually a short deadline to request a hearing with Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and missing it can limit your options. Contacting our team promptly gives us the chance to review your situation, help you understand upcoming deadlines, and start working on a plan to protect your rights.

Can you help if my aggravated DUI involved an accident with injuries?

Aggravated DUI charges involving accidents and injuries are particularly serious because they often carry higher penalties and can raise complex factual questions. We regularly handle serious criminal cases where the State alleges harm to others, and we are familiar with the issues that arise in those situations. In these cases, we review accident reports, medical records, and any available video or photographs. When appropriate, we may consult with accident reconstruction professionals or other qualified experts to assess what the evidence really shows. Our goal is to understand exactly what happened and to use that analysis to challenge the case where possible and seek outcomes that reduce the long-term impact.

How soon should I hire a lawyer for an aggravated DUI?

It is generally wise to speak with an aggravated DUI lawyer in Orlando as soon as you can after an aggravated DUI arrest. Early representation allows us to help you understand bond conditions, calculate license deadlines, and start gathering information before memories fade or evidence becomes harder to obtain. Courts typically schedule initial appearances and arraignments relatively quickly, and having counsel in place before those dates can make the process less confusing. We offer free, confidential consultations and are available 24 hours a day by phone, so you can get legal guidance without waiting for your first court date. Taking this step early often gives you more options and greater peace of mind.

Talk With Our Aggravated DUI Lawyers Today

An aggravated DUI charge can affect every part of your life, from your freedom and license to your job and family. You do not have to face this alone. When you work with Ali & Blankner, you work with a team of former prosecutors who bring more than 85 years of combined experience to your defense. Our attorneys are recognized by respected organizations for their work in criminal defense and DUI matters, and we have a long history of achieving Knockout Results in serious cases.

We offer free, confidential consultations and are available by phone at any time. We will listen to your story, review your paperwork, and explain how the process works, so you can make informed choices about your next steps. We are here to help when you need an aggravated DUI attorney Orlando residents can rely on for both strong advocacy and honest guidance.

To speak directly with an aggravated DUI attorney in Orlando, call (407) 753-1312 or contact us online today.