Got a DUI , Get a Lawyer

Driving under the influence is not something that law enforcement anywhere takes lightly, and this is also true of Tampa, Florida. The state of Florida uses the standard 0.08% blood alcohol level as its legal limit. If you exceed that limit many of your physical and mental capacities are handicapped to the point of being dangerous to others on the road. If you are stopped by a police officer and found to have a blood alcohol level exceeding the limit, you will be arrested on the spot and charged with a DUI.

If you do get arrested for a DUI in Tampa then you need to retain the services of a reputable lawyer. They will be able to best plead your case since the DUI laws in Florida are very complicated. You need someone who has the experience and knowledge to deal with this charge. Look for a lawyer who will remain in contact with you and let you know what's going on at all times. They should also be understanding in regard you and your case. You will know when you have a good lawyer. They should be willing to contact their own investigation into the circumstances of your arrest; this is the only way they can find the best defense for you. They should interview and eye witnesses and negotiate the case with the prosecutor. And if your lawyer will challenge any and all evidence brought against you in court, then you have a keeper.

Driving under the influence in Florida is often punished very harshly, which is why having a good lawyer is so important. If you're convicted in Tampa you can face consequences including fines, probation, community service, suspension of your driver's license, and even jail time. A good lawyer can make the difference between a fine or community service and going to jail. Normally if its your first conviction, a typical penalty is a fine and less than 6 months in jail. A second conviction could earn you a higher fine and up to 9 months in jail. A third DUI would most likely be charged as a felony, which is where you really run into trouble.

There are many possible defenses in these types of cases. This can mean trying to get the breath test results excluded from trial, or getting and statement's you made to the police excluded. More commonly it can be a motion to dismiss the case because the traffic stop was illegal, or to suppress evidence gathered in the case of an unwarranted arrest. Less commonly your defense could be claiming actual police misconduct or failure to be read your Miranda warnings. These are just a few examples of possible defenses and a good lawyer will be able to advise which is the best to use in your case. This is why getting a competent lawyer is an absolutely necessity