
Multiple DUI Attorney In Tampa, FL
Driving under the influence (DUI) is illegal and a serious offense in every state. The purpose of DUI laws is to keep everyone safe and to prevent serious or fatal accidents while on the road. In Florida, the consequences for DUIs are consistent, harsh, and swift, and they may be even more significant if a person has multiple DUIs. However, with a Tampa multiple DUI lawyer, you may have a chance at avoiding more serious penalties.
Amarosa Law Firm P.A. is a reliable, experienced firm dedicated to defending your rights, whether you are charged with a serious or minor offense. We have offices throughout Florida and the Federal District Court, making us accessible and convenient. We work hard to preserve justice and to provide our clients with a better chance at freedom.
Multiple DUI Laws in Tampa
In Florida, the laws for multiple DUIs are pursuant to Florida Statute 316.193. Specifically, a person is considered to be driving under the influence if they are operating a vehicle while intoxicated by alcohol, chemical substances, or a controlled substance. At its most basic form, this means their normal faculties are impaired, but specifically, this means their blood alcohol level is 0.08% or above.
For each subsequent DUI offense, the corresponding financial penalties increase. The exact fine schedule for DUIs is as follows:
- Between $500 and $1,000 for the first offense
- Between $1,000 and $2,000 for the second offense
- Between $2,000 and $5,000 for the third offense
- Greater than $2,000 for the fourth offense
To detect a driver’s blood alcohol level or to determine a DUI, the arresting officer may administer a blood test, chemical test, or breathalyzer. It is advisable to cooperate with the officer to avoid further consequences; however, we are here to help you despite the circumstances surrounding your situation. At our firm, we understand that everyone makes mistakes, and that is why we work to protect our clients from more serious offenses.
Understanding Your Rights
In 2023, there were over 5,000 reported alcohol-related crashes in Florida and 47 crashes involving drugs in Hillsborough County, which is a decrease from previous years. These numbers present the importance of being aware of how driving impaired can impact you and other citizens. However, if you find yourself in a bad situation, being accused of DUI, you have rights, and they include:
- The right to remain silent under the Fifth Amendment of the US Constitution
- The right to be protected from unreasonable search and seizures, as well as excessive force under the Fourth Amendment of the US Constitution.
- The right to an attorney under the Sixth Amendment
Collectively, these rights are also known as Miranda rights, and the arresting officer must inform you of these rights before an arrest or charge can be made. If any of these rights are violated, you should quickly seek legal counsel to help you with your case in Tampa.
When to Hire a Tampa Multiple DUI Attorney
If you are facing consequences for a multiple DUI case, you should request the help of an attorney. This is because the penalties for multiple DUIs are harsher than for your first DUI. The quicker you exercise your right to an attorney, the better your position. Waiting or trying to defend your case yourself may make your situation worse, even if you are wrongly accused.
A skilled Tampa multiple DUI attorney has the skills and experience to help you, whether in court or outside of court. Your lawyer can:
- Provide counsel at the scene, so you do not further incriminate yourself or make any missteps
- Inform you of your rights as well as the legal process associated with DUIs
- Help reduce your sentence or fine amounts
- Help you enter a plea of guilty or not guilty
- Represent you in court if necessary
AMAROSA LAW FIRM P.A. Finding Solutions For Tough Cases.
FAQs
The cost of a lawyer for a DUI in Florida varies by case. However, there are certain factors that may be considered when deciding whether or not to hire a lawyer. These factors include the complexity of your case, the location of the firm, and the skill and experience of your lawyer. Typically, more experienced lawyers may justify charging more, and firms in areas with a higher cost of living may be more expensive.
You can get multiple counts of DUI in many ways. The most common way is to be convicted of a DUI on multiple, separate occasions, such as the third conviction within 10 years. Another is if your DUI causes property damage or injury. You may also get multiple counts if you are arrested for driving impaired, then arrested again on the same night.
After three DUIs in Florida, the penalties become more severe. For example, instead of a $1,000 fine, the fines may be between $2,000 and $5,000 in fines, as well as serving at least 30 days and a minimum of 48 hours in jail. For the fourth DUI, the fines are no less than $2,000, and jail time may be no less than 5 years.
It is difficult to determine how many DUI cases get dismissed in Florida, but a significant number of sentences may be reduced with the right lawyer. It is perhaps more important to note that DUI convictions remain on record for 75 years, so it is important to secure legal representation to help you with your case and avoid harsh penalties.
Hire a Multiple DUI Lawyer Today
Everyone makes mistakes and deserves a second chance. That is why the lawyers at Amarosa Law Firm P.A. are here to help you obtain a second chance if you are faced with multiple DUI penalties. We offer free consultation to our clients because we believe in our capabilities as well as your rights. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you with your case.