Tampa DUI Defense Attorney
Enhanced Penalties for DUI
There are two specific circumstances that may result in a driver facing enhanced penalties for DUI in Tampa, Florida. The first involves the driver's
blood alcohol concentration, or BAC. The standard limit to operate a motor vehicle in Florida is .08%. If a driver is found with a BAC of .08% or greater, he or she may face DUI charges. If a driver is found to be operating a vehicle with a BAC of .15% or greater, he or she may face enhanced
penalties. The second circumstance involves a driver who is arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs while with a minor in the vehicle. Having a minor in the vehicle at the time of the offense will result in enhanced penalties.
Are you facing criminal charges for DUI? With or without enhanced penalties, you may be in danger of facing heavy fines and
imprisonment. It is important to review your options with a
Tampa DUI lawyer who can protect your legal rights and inform you of your legal rights in this important matter. At Thomas & Paulk, we understand the intricacies of drunk driving charges. We know how to challenge
breath and
blood test evidence and question the
arresting officer's testimony in order to seek a positive result to a client's case, even when it seems the odds are stacked against us. If you are interested in learning more about how we may be able to assist you, we welcome you to call our firm for a free, confidential case review.
Increased Fine and Imprisonment: BAC of .15% or Greater / Minor in Vehicle
What "enhanced" penalties will be enforced if a driver has a BAC of .15% or has a minor in the vehicle? The following penalties may apply for a first DUI offense with an enhancement:
The enhanced penalties will increase for a second,
third or
fourth DUI offense. For example, the term of imprisonment for a second DUI offense increases from a 9-month maximum to a 12-month maximum.
When you look at the impact that a DUI conviction and enhanced penalties may have on you now and into the future, it is easy to see why it is beneficial to involve an attorney who can help you challenge these charges. Instead of facing time in jail, driver's license suspension, community service, heavy fines and probation, work toward a brighter future with a competent legal professional by your side.
Contact a Tampa DUI attorney at our law offices today.