In that case, the prosecutor may be unable to prove one element of the DUI case – the actual physical control of the vehicle. We provide free initial consultations so that you can discuss the particular facts of your case directly with an attorney. The article lists the best DUI defense strategies available under Florida law. Contact us to discuss your case and explore how we can help you mount a strong defense against your DUI charges. Experienced defense for anyone arrested for a violation of probation.
Why You Need a Tampa Felony DUI Lawyer for a Felony DUI Charge
If a driver is convicted of committing a fourth DUI offense, regardless of the time passed between their previous convictions, then they will be charged guilty of a third-degree felony. The punishments include a fine of up to $5,000 and up to five years of jail time. The use of one or the other depends on the preference of the police officer who caught the driver or the court official. Our criminal defense & DUI law firm serves all neighborhoods across both Hillsborough and Pinellas counties in Tampa.
Our Office
Whether it’s understanding your rights or building a solid defense, we are dedicated to protecting your interests. No, driving on a suspended license after a DUI is illegal and can result in additional penalties, including jail time, fines, and an extended suspension period. If you need to drive, you should apply for a hardship license legally.
Board certification signifies that an attorney has demonstrated exceptional knowledge and skill in criminal law, meeting stringent qualifications set by the Florida Bar. This ensures you are hiring a lawyer with proven expertise, peer-reviewed qualifications, and a commitment to high standards. You have only 10 days to get a hardship license after you’ve been arrested for a DUI. If you don’t take the necessary steps, you will not be able to drive and could be arrested again if you get behind the wheel. In the State of Florida when you sign your drivers license you are agreeing to take these tests upon request. Refusal to take any of these tests when pulled over due to a DUI will result in an immediate suspension for one year.
A single DUI charge is serious—but repeat offenses bring increasingly severe consequences. In Florida and many other states, penalties escalate with each offense, including hefty fines, extended license suspensions, mandatory jail time, and even felony charges for a third DUI. Casey is a board-certified criminal trial lawyer with over two decades of experience, including time as a former prosecutor. This background provides him with unique insights and a proven track record in handling complex criminal cases, ensuring clients receive expert representation.
- If your BAC measures .15% or higher or you are found drunk driving with a minor in your car, you will even face harsher penalties.
- If there are issues regarding how evidence was obtained or its reliability, your attorney can file motions to suppress that evidence, which may significantly weaken the prosecution’s case.
- This is a brief explanation of their constitutional rights in this situation, and failure to read them their Miranda rights is a serious due process violation.
- While these events provide entertainment, they also lead to an increase in DUI checkpoints and enforcement.
- If you were under arrest for driving under the influence (DUI), then hiring the skills of a lawyer would be extremely worthwhile.
Check their credentials and reputationBefore hiring an attorney, it is important to check their credentials and reputation. Look for an attorney who is licensed to practice law in Florida and who has dui lawyers tampa a good standing with the Florida Bar Association. You can also check online reviews or ask for references to get a better understanding of their reputation. Sentencing – If the person is found guilty, the next stage is sentencing. The judge will consider factors such as the severity of the crime, the person’s criminal history, and any mitigating or aggravating factors.
