Tampa DUI Lawyers

The DUI Process in Tampa, Florida

The DUI process in Tampa is fairly complex. It actually has two parts: the criminal case and the DHSMV hearing. Having an experienced DUI attorney on your side to guide you through the entire DUI process is invaluable. Not only will you have the comfort of knowing someone is fighting to protect your rights, you will have the assistance of an attorney who can negotiate with a judge or the prosecution and show evidence that may help you get alternative sentencing or have your case dismissed.

Finebloom & Haenel, P.A. is a renowned Tampa DUI law firm. Our lawyers and staff have defended Florida DUIs for years and have experience with all types of driving under the influence cases. We understand that DUI is a serious charge that requires an aggressive and effective lawyer who can assert your rights and innocence. Our lawyers understand the ins and outs of the entire DUI process and use that to your advantage.

A Step-by-Step Look at the DUI Process

Any DUI process will begin with your initial arrest. After your arrest, you have 10 days to schedule a DHSMV hearing to address your driver’s license suspension. If you fail to schedule this hearing, you will automatically lose your license for up to 18 months.

After your arrest, you will be taken to the local police station where your bail amount will likely be set. After you pay bail, or if you are released on your own recognizance (without bail), you will then wait for your arraignment.

Your DUI arraignment is an initial hearing where a judge informs you of your rights, your charges and the penalties you may face. If you have hired a Tampa DUI lawyer by this point, you may not need to be present at your arraignment. Your lawyer may be able to file a written waiver of “not guilty”.

Following your arraignment, your Tampa DUI lawyer may file pre-trial motions, which are used to assert your rights. One such motion is a motion to suppress evidence, where evidence that was improperly or illegally obtained may be suppressed from your trial.

Your DUI criminal trial will then follow. You will have a trial by jury, who will determine your verdict. However, the judge will determine your sentencing. At your trial, your DUI attorney will be able to present evidence and witnesses in your favor to help win your case.

Have you been arrested for DUI in Tampa? Contact our lawyers today!