Tampa Multiple DUI Attorney

Defense Lawyer for Second, Third & Subsequent DUI Charges

According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), an estimated one-third of all DUI arrests nationwide are repeat offenders. This includes people who have received DUIs as far back as a decade or more prior. 

In Florida, law enforcement takes a harsh stance on repeat DUIs, and what “counts” as a prior DUI depends on how many times you’ve been arrested. You could be looking at significant penalties if you have a prior DUI conviction within the last 5 – 10 years. In certain cases, having a prior DUI at any point in your past could lead to harsher penalties.

With each subsequent DUI arrest, you face increasingly severe consequences. The penalties for multiple DUIs in Florida can be devastating and should not be treated lightly. If you are at risk of a second, third, or even fourth DUI conviction, you should secure the assistance of an experienced multiple DUI lawyer in Tampa. By working closely with an attorney familiar with this area of the law, you can aggressively defend against your charges and work to protect your future. Whether looking into faulty DUI test results or questioning whether there was reasonable cause for the traffic stop, we can fight to protect you.

Contact The Law Offices of Jeff Paulk today at (813) 321-7323 to discuss your multiple DUI charges free and confidentially.

Potential Penalties of Multiple DUI Convictions

The penalties for a multiple DUI conviction in Florida vary depending on the number of prior convictions and the circumstances of the arrest. For example, having two or more past DUIs generally leads to stricter penalties than having a single prior DUI, but that can change if other factors, such as a high BAC, are present. 

Below are some possible penalties for a multiple DUI conviction in Florida.

Second DUI:

• $1,000 to $2,000 in fines
• Up to 9 months in jail
• Community service
• Probation
• Minimum 5-year driver's license revocation

Third DUI:

• Fine of more than $2,000 and less than $5,000
• Imprisonment of a minimum of 30 days
• Impoundment of vehicle for 90 days
• Driver license revocation for a minimum of 10 years
• Mandatory completion of DUI Level II Class

Fourth DUI:

• Felony charges for the fourth offense
• Up to 5 years in state prison
• Fines of up to $5,000
• Deportation for non-U.S. citizens
• Probable revocation of driving privileges

In addition to legal penalties, those convicted of multiple DUI offenses face problems like social stigma, issues at work (including losing their jobs), strained personal relationships, and damaged reputations. Other penalties may include community service, higher auto insurance rates, mandatory DUI school attendance, and even possible deportation for non-U.S. citizens.

DUI Level II Classes

After being convicted for drunk driving, a driver will be required to participate in a Florida Licensed DUI Program. The purpose of these classes is to educate offenders about the dangers of driving under the influence. The DUI classes are also required to acquire a license following an administrative suspension. For first-time offenders, they will be allowed to participate in a Level 1 Class (12 hours), but those with prior convictions will need to enroll in Level II Class (21 hours).

Hardship License in Florida

One of the most challenging things to face following an arrest is the possibility of having your license suspended by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. This is especially true for repeat offenders. In fact, in Florida, having a second offense within five years of your first will result in a five-year driver’s license suspension. A third within 10 years will result in a 10-year suspension. This does not mean that you will not be allowed to ever drive during your suspension. In some cases, you may be eligible to apply for a hardship license, which will allow you to drive to places you must go, such as work, school, church, or the doctor. Also known as a provisional driver’s license, it is split into two separate categories for business and employment.

Exploring Alternative Sentencing Options

When facing multiple DUI charges, it's crucial to understand that there may be alternative sentencing options available to you. These options can help mitigate the consequences of your DUI convictions and potentially provide a more favorable outcome. At The Law Offices of Jeff Paulk, our Tampa multiple DUI lawyer has extensive experience navigating the legal system and advocating for our clients' rights. 

We can explore alternative sentencing options that may include:

• Probation: Instead of serving jail time, you may be eligible for probation.
• Diversion Programs: In some cases, you may be eligible for diversion programs that offer rehabilitation and treatment instead of traditional penalties.
• Ignition Interlock Device: Depending on the circumstances, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle, allowing you to continue driving while ensuring sobriety.
• Community Service: The court may offer the option of completing community service hours in lieu of or in addition to other penalties such as jail time.

By working with our team, we can assess your unique situation and determine the most appropriate alternative sentencing options. We can advocate for your rights and fight to achieve the best possible outcome. Contact The Law Offices of Jeff Paulk to discuss your multiple DUI defense options and how we can work to protect your future.

Why Hire a Multiple DUI Defense Lawyer in Tampa?

If you have a previous DUI conviction, the odds are stacked against you. The courts could be especially harsh if you are still under probation from the last conviction, and a jury may be less inclined to side in your favor if you are not prepared to fight for your future. 

At The Law Offices of Jeff Paulk, we know how to increase your chances of a successful outcome. As an experienced DUI defense attorney with a background as a former prosecutor, Attorney Jeff Paulk has seen firsthand how the consequences of multiple DUI convictions can completely change someone’s life. He knows what is at stake, and he is prepared to fight for you.

Facing charges for a second, third, or subsequent DUI puts your future in jeopardy. Act fast and exercise your right to legal counsel by contacting The Law Offices of Jeff Paulk now. We have extensive experience defending clients against multiple DUI charges, and we’re ready to discuss how best to move forward in your case.

When you work with our firm, you can breathe easier knowing your future is in trustworthy hands. Call (813) 321-7323 today for a free consultation.