Tampa Felony DUI Defense Attorney

Defending Your Future Against Felony DUI Charges in Tampa, FL

A felony DUI charge in Tampa, FL can have life-altering consequences, including severe penalties, license suspension, and a permanent criminal record. If you have been arrested for DUI offenses in Hillsborough County or Pinellas County, securing representation from an experienced Tampa DUI lawyer is critical. At Hersem Law, our DUI defense team is dedicated to protecting your rights, crafting strong defenses, and helping you navigate the criminal justice system.

Understanding Felony DUI Charges in Florida

Not all DUI charges are felonies, but certain aggravating factors can elevate a DUI case to a felony offense. According to Florida DUI laws, a DUI may be charged as a felony if:

You have prior DUI convictions (third offense within 10 years or a fourth DUI at any time).
The DUI caused serious bodily injury to another person.
The DUI resulted in DUI manslaughter (fatal accident).

A felony DUI conviction can result in significant jail time, fines, and mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device. Additionally, a conviction will permanently impact your driving privileges and driver’s license status.

How Law Enforcement Builds DUI Cases

A law enforcement officer or police officer investigating a suspected DUI will look for signs of impairment, such as erratic driving or the odor of alcohol. After a DUI arrest, officers may conduct field sobriety tests and request a breath, blood, or urine test. The results of a breath test, blood test, or urine test can determine whether your blood alcohol level exceeds Florida’s legal limit of 0.08%.

If you refuse to take a breath or blood test, you may face an automatic driver’s license suspension. However, there are legal defenses to contest breathalyzer and breath test machine results, including improper calibration and officer error.

Defenses Against Felony DUI Charges

An experienced DUI defense lawyer can challenge the prosecution’s case and weaken the State Attorney’s Office arguments. Common defense strategies include:

Challenging the validity of the breath test or chemical test results.
Questioning whether the Tampa Police Department officer had probable cause for the traffic stop.
Disputing the administration of field sobriety tests.
Proving a lack of actual physical control over the vehicle.
Demonstrating violations of Florida statute procedures for DUI investigations.

As your criminal defense attorney, we explore all options to minimize penalties or seek case dismissals.

The Consequences of a Felony DUI Conviction

A felony DUI conviction in Tampa, FL can lead to:

Lengthy prison sentences and hefty fines.
Permanent revocation of driving privileges.
Required enrollment in DUI school.
Installation of an ignition interlock device.
Difficulty obtaining or retaining a commercial driver’s license.

If convicted, you may also face enhanced penalties for subsequent DUI offenses. Hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Why Choose an Experienced Tampa DUI Lawyer?

At Hersem Law, our DUI defense attorneys have extensive experience defending clients in Hillsborough County and Pinellas County against criminal charges. We understand the complexities of DUI law and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible results.

We provide:

Aggressive representation from a skilled attorney.
Personalized defense strategies tailored to your case.
Advocacy from a private attorney who fights for your rights.
Guidance through formal review hearings to contest DUI citation penalties.

Schedule a Free Consultation Today

If you are facing felony DUI charges, don’t wait to seek legal help. A skilled Tampa Felony DUI Defense Attorney at Hersem Law can provide the aggressive representation you need. Call Hersem Law at 813-251-7291 (Tampa) or 727-384-4357 (Clearwater) to schedule your free consultation. You can also reach us through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward protecting your future.

FAQs About Felony DUI in Tampa

1. What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony DUI in Florida?
A DUI becomes a felony when there are prior DUI convictions, serious bodily injury, or DUI manslaughter. Felony DUIs carry harsher penalties, including longer jail sentences and permanent driver’s license revocation.

2. Can I refuse a breath or blood test in Florida?
Yes, but refusal can result in an automatic driver’s license suspension. However, there are defenses to challenge the results of a breath or urine test.

3. How long does a felony DUI stay on my record?
A felony DUI conviction is permanent in Florida and cannot be expunged. That’s why hiring a DUI defense lawyer is essential.

4. What happens if I get a DUI with a commercial driver’s license?
A DUI conviction can result in disqualification of your commercial driver’s license. Commercial drivers have stricter blood alcohol level limits (0.04%).

5. How can a DUI attorney help with my case?
A Tampa DUI attorney can challenge evidence, negotiate with the State Attorney’s Office, and fight for reduced penalties or case dismissals.