Tampa DUI Defense Attorney
Arrested for DUI in Hillsborough or surrounding counties? Get experienced legal defense immediately.
A DUI arrest in Florida can put your driver’s license, finances, career, and even your freedom at risk. The penalties can be severe — and they escalate quickly for repeat offenses or cases involving injuries.
If you have been arrested for DUI in Tampa or the surrounding counties, you need to act quickly. Early intervention can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
With over 24 years of legal experience, Tampa DUI attorney Patrick B. Courtney represents clients throughout Hillsborough, Pasco, Polk, Pinellas, Manatee, and Sarasota counties. He works to protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and pursue the best possible resolution.
How Is DUI Defined in Florida?
Under Florida law, you can be charged with driving under the influence if you are impaired by alcohol, a controlled substance, a chemical substance, or certain prescription medications.
In most cases:
- The legal limit is 0.08% BAC
- Commercial drivers: 0.04% BAC
- Drivers under 21: 0.02% BAC
However, you can still be arrested and charged with DUI even if your BAC is below 0.08% if law enforcement believes your normal faculties are impaired.
Call Patrick B. Courtney, P.A. at 813-705-9696 to schedule a consultation with a lawyer today.
DUI Penalties in Florida
Penalties vary depending on prior convictions and whether the offense involved injuries or property damage.
First DUI
- Up to 6 months in jail
- Fines up to $1,000
- Driver’s license suspension
- Possible ignition interlock device (IID)
Second DUI
- Up to 9 months in jail (longer in some cases)
- Higher fines
- Extended license revocation
- Mandatory IID installation
Third DUI
- May be charged as a felony
- Up to 5 years in prison
- Substantial fines
- Long-term license revocation
Felony DUI Charges
Certain DUI offenses are charged as felonies, including:
- DUI with serious bodily injury (third-degree felony)
- DUI manslaughter (second-degree felony)
- Leaving the scene of a fatal DUI accident (first-degree felony)
Felony DUI convictions can result in lengthy prison sentences, significant fines, and permanent driver’s license revocation.
What Happens After a DUI Arrest?
After a DUI arrest, you will be booked and scheduled for arraignment. Because DUI is a criminal offense in Florida, you must enter a plea and move through the criminal court process.
An experienced DUI attorney can:
- Review the legality of the traffic stop
- Challenge breath or blood test results
- Examine field sobriety procedures
- Identify violations of your constitutional rights
- Negotiate reduced charges or alternative sentencing
- Prepare your case for trial if necessary
It is generally advisable to consult an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and explore your legal options.
DUI Defense Strategies
Every DUI case is unique. Depending on the facts, several defenses may be available.
Improper Traffic Stop
Police must have reasonable suspicion to initiate a stop. If the stop was unlawful, the charges may be dismissed.
Rising Blood Alcohol
Alcohol takes time to absorb into the bloodstream. It is possible that a driver’s BAC was below the legal limit while driving but rose before testing.
Unreliable Field Sobriety Tests
Field sobriety exercises rely on subjective observations and can be affected by medical conditions, injuries, fatigue, or anxiety.
Breathalyzer Errors
Breath testing devices must be properly maintained, calibrated, and administered. Errors in procedure or equipment can invalidate results.
Violation of Constitutional Rights
If law enforcement violated your rights during the stop, arrest, or investigation, key evidence may be suppressed.
Additional Consequences of a DUI Conviction
Beyond court-imposed penalties, a DUI conviction can impact many areas of your life:
- Increased auto insurance rates
- Difficulty finding or keeping employment
- Professional license consequences
- Immigration complications
- Custody and family law issues
These long-term consequences make it critical to mount a strong defense.
Hillsborough County RIDR Program (First-Time Offenders)
Some first-time misdemeanor DUI offenders in Hillsborough County may qualify for the Reducing Impaired Driving Recidivism (RIDR) Program.
Eligible participants who successfully complete program requirements may be able to reduce their charge to reckless driving.
Eligibility depends on several factors, including:
- No accident involvement
- No minor passengers
- BAC below 0.20%
- No prior DUI convictions
An experienced attorney can determine whether this program may be an option in your case.
Speak With a Tampa DUI Attorney Today
A DUI arrest does not mean a conviction is inevitable. With the right legal strategy, it may be possible to reduce the charges, suppress evidence, or seek alternative resolutions. If you have been arrested for DUI in Tampa or the surrounding counties, contact our office today to schedule a free consultation.
Facing DUI/DWI Charges?
Call Patrick B. Courtney, P.A. at 813-705-9696 to discuss your DUI/DWI case with an attorney, ask questions about the charges you’re facing, and learn what steps you can take next.