Driver's License Suspension

Penalties for DUI in Tampa, FL

When a driver is convicted of DUI (driving under the influence) in Tampa, he or she will face driver's license revocation by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). The length of suspension will vary depending on the nature of the offense and the defendant's criminal history. A defendant may be able to apply for a hardship license that will allow him or her to drive for work, school and other necessary reasons, but a certain amount of time will need to pass before he or she can apply. Below we have included the basic license suspension periods that may be enforced. These may vary depending on the circumstances of your case:

• First conviction - 180 days to 1 year.
• Second conviction (at any time) - 180 days to 1 year.
• Second conviction (within 5 years) - 5 years; can apply for hardship license after 1 year.
• Third conviction (within 10 years) - 10 years; can apply for hardship license after 2 years.
• Fourth conviction (at any time) or murder with a motor vehicle - permanent, mandatory revocation; no possibility of reinstatement.
• DUI manslaughter - permanent revocation; may apply for hardship license after 5 years if the defendant has no prior DUI convictions.
• Manslaughter, DUI causing serious bodily injury or vehicular homicide - 3 years.
• DUI causing serious bodily injury (with previous conviction) - 5 or 10 years, depending on whether second or third conviction.

Avoid License Suspension - Contact a Tampa DUI Attorney Today

Losing your license may have more of an impact on your life than one would think. You will need to rely upon public transportation or friends and family members to get anywhere you need to go - even to the grocery store to pick up a few necessities. While bicycling or walking may be an option in some cases, this can turn a normally short trip into a tedious undertaking. Make sure your driving privileges are protected if you have been accused of or arrested for DUI. In addition to protecting your interests in criminal court to help you avoid revocation based upon a conviction, Thomas & Paulk can offer you comprehensive legal counsel to handle your DMV hearing.

Contact a Tampa DUI lawyer at our law offices to schedule a confidential review of your case.