QUICK ANSWER
After a DUI arrest in West Palm Beach, Florida, your case will be handled through Palm Beach County courts. You have 10 days from your arrest to request a DHSMV hearing to fight license suspension. Florida allows plea bargaining to "wet reckless" — but judges cannot withhold adjudication for DUI convictions.
DUI in West Palm Beach by the Numbers
What Makes West Palm Beach Different
West Palm Beach serves as the county seat for one of Florida's wealthiest counties. Clematis Street and CityPlace (Rosemary Square) see heavy nightlife DUI enforcement. Palm Beach County is known for thorough prosecution.
⚠️ 10-Day DHSMV Deadline
You must request a DHSMV hearing within 10 days of arrest. This extends your temporary driving permit to 42 days. Miss this deadline and your suspension is automatic — no exceptions.
West Palm Beach Court Information
Palm Beach County Criminal Court
Handles DUI criminal cases in Palm Beach County
Palm Beach County Courthouse
May handle misdemeanor DUI cases
Florida DUI Penalties Summary
1st Offense DUI
Up to 6 mo jail, $500-$1,000 fines, 180-day suspension, 50 hrs community service
2nd Offense (5 yr)
10 days-9 mo jail (10 days mandatory), $1K-$2K fines, 5-yr revocation, IID 2 years
3rd Offense (10 yr) = FELONY
Up to 5 yr prison, $2K-$5K fines, 10-yr revocation, IID 2 years
4th+ Offense = FELONY
Up to 5 yr prison, PERMANENT revocation, no hardship available
Hardship License Options
First offenders can choose: challenge the suspension (formal review) or accept it and get immediate hardship driving privileges (waiver review). An attorney can help you decide which path is best.
Learn about hardship licenses →West Palm Beach DUI FAQs
Is Palm Beach County strict on DUI?
Yes. Palm Beach County has a dedicated DUI unit and is known for thorough prosecution. First-time offenders rarely receive dismissals without strong defense.
Nearby Florida Cities
Last updated: February 2026