Fines and Court Fees

DUI Convictions and Penalties in Tampa, FL

When a driver is found guilty or pleads guilty to driving under the influence, he or she will typically face fines and any of a number of other fees. This is yet another issue that makes drunk driving charges so serious, as a conviction may impact the driver on a financial level. In addition to imprisonment, license suspension and other penalties, the driver may face payment of fines, court fees and possibly restitution to any person who was injured in a car accident allegedly caused by the defendant.

What fines may I be required to pay if convicted?

The following fines may be imposed upon a driver in Tampa, Florida who is convicted of DUI. The specific fines and other fees may vary depending on the particular case, jurisdiction and more:

• First DUI conviction: $500 to $1,000
  • First conviction with blood alcohol level of .15% or higher or minor in vehicle: $1,000 to $1,200
• Second DUI conviction: $1,000 to $2,000
  • Second conviction with blood alcohol level of .15% or higher or minor in vehicle: $2,000 to $4,000
• Third DUI conviction (within 10 years of previous conviction): $5,000 maximum
  • Third DUI conviction (more than 10 years from previous conviction): $2,000 to $5,000
  • Third conviction with blood alcohol level of .15% or higher or minor in vehicle: $4,000 minimum
• Fourth or subsequent DUI conviction: $2,000 minimum

A driver may also face various fees associated with reinstating his driver's license, paying to get his vehicle out of impoundment, installation of an ignition interlock device, increased insurance rates and more. When all is said and done, a driver may face thousands of dollars in expenses related to a conviction.

Contact a Tampa DUI Lawyer

If you are interested in finding out how you can avoid fines and court fees, talk to an attorney at Thomas & Paulk. We are highly experienced in defending the rights and interests of drivers arrested for drunk driving and related criminal offenses and will fight on your behalf to help you avoid a conviction entirely.

Contact a Tampa DUI lawyer at our firm today and take the first step in avoiding heavy fines and fees.