Tampa License Suspension Lawyer

Our Tampa Attorney Fights for Your Right to Drive in Florida

One of the most inconvenient and challenging DUI penalties is the suspension of one’s driver’s license. Several scenarios can lead to the loss of driving privileges. The first is refusing to take a breath test. Florida has an implied consent law that requires all license holders to submit to blood alcohol level testing, such as taking a breathalyzer or undergoing blood analysis, when arrested. 

Here are a couple of key things to keep in mind:

• The first time a driver refuses a physical or chemical test, they will lose their license for a year. 
• A second refusal will cause an 18-month driver's license suspension.

The second and most common scenario in which someone’s driver’s license can be suspended is when they are arrested for drunk driving. If this happens, your license will automatically be suspended, but you’ll have 10 days to request a DMV hearing to challenge the suspension. At this hearing, you’ll have a chance to present evidence and argue for why your license should not be suspended. However, if you are convicted of DUI later, your license will be suspended regardless of the results of the DMV hearing.

Multiple Offenses & License Suspension

First-time offenders may qualify for Hillsborough’s Reducing Impaired Driving Recidivism (RIDR) program. If a driver completes this program, they will not have their license suspended because they will not be convicted of DUI. If a first-time offender qualifies and finishes the RIDR program, their charge is reduced to reckless driving, and they will not be required to inform employers of their previous DUI arrest.

For a second DUI conviction, the duration of a possible driver’s license suspension can change depending on how recent the defendant’s first offense was. If the first DUI occurred within five years, the defendant would face a minimum five-year driver’s license suspension. After a third conviction, the defendant will face a minimum driver’s license suspension of 10 years if the latest arrest occurs within 10 years of the prior convictions. After a fourth conviction, the defendant’s driver’s license will be permanently revoked.

In some instances, such as DUI manslaughter, a person’s prior offenses are not considered. If convicted of DUI manslaughter, whether it is a person’s first or fourth offense, the defendant will face a permanent loss of driving privileges. In cases where a person was driving under the influence and caused serious injury, their license suspension will last for at least three years.

We Work Hard to Protect Your Driver’s License

If you have been arrested for DUI, you are also at risk of losing your license for an extended period of time. For this reason, it is crucial that you get a Tampa DUI lawyer who can look after you in both the criminal and civil proceedings. At The Law Offices of Jeff Paulk, we know what is at stake and will do everything possible to protect your freedom. 

Call (813) 321-7323 today to speak with a skilled and knowledgeable driver’s license suspension lawyer in Tampa.