Tampa Second DUI Defense Lawyer
Being arrested for a second DUI in Tampa is more than a wake-up call. It can feel like everything you’ve worked for is on the line. You might be facing a longer jail sentence, a court-ordered ignition interlock device, or the loss of your driver’s license for years. If this happened in Hillsborough County or Pinellas County, you already know how seriously Florida takes repeat DUI offenses. Now the legal process is faster, stricter, and far less forgiving.
What you’re facing after a second DUI offense
A second offense DUI in Florida comes with mandatory penalties. That includes jail time, license suspension, DUI school, vehicle impoundment, substance abuse evaluation, and steep fines. If your second DUI conviction happens within five years of the first, the court must suspend your driving privileges for at least five years. You’ll also be required to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle for at least one year.
If your breath or blood alcohol level was high or you caused a crash involving serious bodily injury, the state attorney’s office may treat your case even more aggressively. Every decision you make right now matters. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to protect your future.
Real second offense DUI cases from Tampa and beyond
Maybe you were pulled over on Kennedy Boulevard after a night out in SoHo. Maybe you failed the field sobriety tests and now the prosecution’s case hinges on those moments. Or maybe a DUI checkpoint in Pinellas County led to your second DUI arrest — and the officer claimed you refused the breath test.
We’ve helped people just like you — professionals with prior convictions who can’t afford another mark on their criminal record. People with a commercial driver’s license who are facing the end of their career. Parents who just want to avoid a jail sentence and keep their driving privileges. Second DUI offenses aren’t rare in Tampa FL — but every person facing one deserves strong defense and experienced legal representation.
Why second DUI cases demand a different defense strategy
The court doesn’t treat this like your first offense. Prosecutors assume you should have learned your lesson. Judges are required to enforce minimum jail sentences and longer penalties. And law enforcement officers may be less inclined to negotiate or admit errors.
But your case may not be as open-and-shut as it seems. Did the arresting officer perform the field sobriety tests correctly? Was the DUI checkpoint legally set up? Did the chemical test exceed the legal limit under proper conditions? Every detail matters. An experienced DUI lawyer can challenge the prosecution’s case and explore whether a DUI diversion program or reduction to reckless driving is still on the table. With the right defense attorneys, even a second offense DUI can be fought — and won.
You can still fight this, Hersem Law can help
You don’t have to face this second DUI alone. At Hersem Law, our experienced Tampa Second DUI Defense Lawyer knows how to handle second offense DUI cases in Hillsborough County and across Tampa, FL. We understand the legal system, the courts, and the strategies that work. Contact us today for a free consultation with a DUI attorney who will listen, guide, and fight for the best possible outcome.
FAQ: Facing a Second DUI in Tampa
What is the minimum jail time for a second DUI offense in Florida?
If your second DUI conviction is within five years of the first, you face at least 10 days in jail — and up to nine months. The penalties increase if your blood alcohol level was 0.15 or higher or if a minor was in the vehicle.
Will I lose my license after a second DUI arrest?
Yes. For a second offense DUI within five years, Florida law requires a minimum five-year license suspension. You may apply for a hardship license after one year, but only if you meet all DUI school and evaluation requirements.
Is a second DUI considered a felony in Florida?
Most second DUI charges are misdemeanors. However, a felony DUI can be charged if the offense involved serious bodily injury, DUI manslaughter, or if there are multiple prior DUI convictions.
Do I need to install an ignition interlock device?
Yes. After a second DUI conviction, the court must order an ignition interlock device for at least one year. This is required even if your license is reinstated on a hardship basis.
Can a defense attorney help avoid jail time?
In some cases, yes. A skilled attorney may be able to negotiate alternative sentencing, reduce the charges, or identify flaws in the prosecution’s case. Every DUI case is unique and deserves a personalized defense strategy.
What if I refused the breath test during my arrest?
Refusing a chemical test can trigger an automatic license suspension. But your attorney may challenge whether law enforcement officers properly explained your rights or followed correct procedures during the arrest.
Are second offense DUI cases handled differently in Tampa courts?
Yes. Tampa judges are strict on repeat DUI offenses. A local Tampa DUI lawyer with experience in the Hillsborough County courts will know what options exist and how best to present your defense.
