Legal Question in DUI Law in Florida

absent for trial

i had a dui in sc and tehy tried the case 2 years later in my absence. will florida recognize this as binding. also if they do will my suspension begin at date of arrest or date of conviction? i need a lawyer!!!!!!!!!!!


Asked on 5/31/03, 10:52 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Robert Johnston Law Offices of Robert J. Johnston

Re: absent for trial

A lot of states exchange driving information with each other. In all likelihood, Florida will get the conviction in thier records. In South Carolina, a person's suspension begins upon conviction. You can call the Florida Department of Motor Vehicles to see if they received driver's information from South Carolina. You can also contact the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles to see find the exact date of your suspension period. You also need to find out if there are any unpaid fines or court fees, since if there are and you haven't paid them, then there could be a warrant for your arrest. Lastly, why were you convicted in your absense? If the court failed to properly notify you, then you might be able to get the case re-opened. A lot of people are convicted in their absense because they move and don't notify the court of thier new address. In any event, good luck.

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Answered on 5/31/03, 12:43 pm


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