Tampa divorce attorneys family lawyers in Tampa, Riverview, Apollo Beach, Brandon, Carrollwood, Northdale, South Tampa, Hillsborough County, Pinellas County, Pasco County Florida
Se Habla Español | Falamos Português Call NOW for a *FREE Consultation 813-672-1900 Or TEXT to (813) 543-8960 Financing Available * Free in most cases
  • Facebook
  • Search

What 5 Important Things Should I Know About DUIs In Florida?

DUI17

The criminal offense of driving under the influence (DUI) seems fairly straightforward, but it is much more complex than people first think. All drivers within the state of Florida should know about the state’s DUI laws, and what they entail, so they do not find themselves facing charges.

DUI vs. Drunk Driving

The Florida Statutes define the offense of DUI as driving or having physical control of a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, chemicals, or controlled substance that results in a blood alcohol level of at least 0.08 percent, or that impairs a person’s normal faculties. Many people use the terms “DUI” and “drunk driving” interchangeably, but the two are different. While a drunk driver is considered to be under the influence, not all motorists under the influence are drunk, as chemicals and controlled substances can also impair a person.

You Can Be Charged When You are Not Driving

According to the statute, a person can face DUI charges if they are in physical control of the vehicle, even if they are not driving. For example, if you were impaired while in the driver’s seat, and you had the keys in the ignition, you are in physical control of the vehicle. As such, you can be charged with a DUI even if the vehicle is not moving.

You Must Submit to Chemical Tests

If a police officer pulls you over and asks you to submit to a chemical test, such as a breath, blood, or urine test, you must submit to it. State law recognizes the fact that driving is a privilege and in order to enjoy that privilege, all drivers provide implied consent to take these tests every time they get behind the wheel. If you refuse to take this test, you will lose your driver’s license for one year the first time, and 18 months if you refuse it a second time. Also, a refusal to submit to these tests can also be used against you in any criminal proceeding.

A Conviction Does Not Necessarily Mean Jail Time

Being arrested for a DUI is scary, and it is normal to be worried about your future. You may also wonder if you will have to serve jail time. Fortunately, you may not be sentenced to jail time after your first DUI conviction. However, if you are convicted again within five years of your first DUI conviction, you will have to serve a mandatory jail sentence of at least ten days. If you are convicted a third time within ten years of a previous conviction, the minimum mandatory jail sentence is 30 days.

A Criminal Defense Lawyer in Tampa Bay Can Defend Against Your Charges

If you have been arrested for a DUI, do not face your charges alone. At All Family Law Group, P.A., our skilled Tampa criminal defense lawyers know the strategies that will help you beat the charges and retain your freedom. Call us today at 813-672-1900 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.

All Family Law Group, P.A.
The law firm of All Family Law Group, P.A. provides legal services to the Florida cities including Tampa, Clearwater, Brandon, Riverview, Hyde Park, South Tampa, Ybor City, Northdale, Valrico, Gibsonton, Lithia, Mango, Palm River, Plant City, Seffner, Sun City Center, Wimauma, Apollo Beach, Ruskin, Temple Terrace, Carrollwood, Northdale, Westchase, Citrus Park, Town N Country, Thonotosassa, Lutz, Fish Hawk, New Tampa, St. Petersburg, Palm Harbor, MacDill Air Force Base and all of Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco Counties. We will also represent DIVORCE clients in Polk, Hernando or Manatee Counties.

The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.

No content on this site may be reused in any fashion without written permission from All Family Law Group, P.A.

MileMark Media - Practice Growth Solutions

© 2014 - 2024 All Family Law Group, P.A. All rights reserved.
This law firm website SEO by Lynette Silon-Laguna and website management by MileMark Media.

Contact Form Tab