The Possible Penalties For Drunk Driving In Florida And How A Tampa DUI Attorney Can Help Mitigate The Consequences Of Your Arrest
Article by Florida Law Group
Being charged with a DUI in Tampa, Florida is a severe offense, which can result in devastating consequences for the defendant. It is highly recommended that any driver accused of a DUI contact a Tampa DUI attorney soon after the arrest. The penalties for drunk driving under Florida DUI law can vary based on a multitude of factors. For instance, the penalties may be more severe if the driver had prior DUI arrests or if there was bodily harm caused as a result of the drunk driving. A Tampa DUI lawyer can help educate his client on the applicable Florida DUI laws and prepare a legal defense to mitigate the affect of the arrest.
Under Florida DUI law, a defendant can be convicted by the prosecutor proving either the driver’s blood alcohol level was above the legal limit (.08) or that alcohol impaired the normal faculties of the driver. Regardless, of which method the prosecutor uses to convict the defendant the penalties will be the same. The possible penalties for drunk driving include imprisonment, fines, ignition interlock installation, vehicle impoundment and revocation of the driver’s license. DUI charges in Florida are typically misdemeanor offenses; however, there are multiple situations in which a DUI may be prosecuted as a felony offense. Felony offenses will carry stiffer penalties and therefore, a Tampa DUI lawyer will typically try to negotiate with the prosecutor to lower the charge to a misdemeanor offense.
If the driver has three prior DUI convictions within the past ten years the prosecutor will typically charge the driver with a felony DUI. If the driver has more than three prior DUI convictions any subsequent DUI arrest may be charged as a felony regardless of how long ago the prior convictions were. For example, if the driver has four prior DUI convictions with two of those convictions occurring more than ten years ago the prosecutor may still charge the driver with a felony DUI.
Unfortunately, in many instances drunk driving will result in the death of innocent people. Florida DUI law tries to prevent this from occurring by reserving the most severe penalties drunk driving which results in death. For instance, a first degree DUI manslaughter conviction can result in imprisonment of up to 30 years and a fine of ,000.
You should never drive a vehicle under the influence of alcohol. However, if you do you should contact an experienced Tampa DUI attorney for legal advice right away. For more information on Florida DUI law or to speak with a Tampa DUI attorney contact Florida Law Group to schedule a free consultation.
Florida Law Group has served as a dependable source for information regarding a Tampa DUI Lawyer for many years. For dependable answers and advice on finding a reputable Tampa DUI Attorney visit our website today.
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