Being arrested for DUI in Florida can be an overwhelming and frightening experience. Whether it’s your first time facing criminal charges or you’re dealing with a repeat offense, the legal system can feel complex and unforgiving as our Tampa, FL first time DUI lawyer knows all too well. At Stechschulte Nell, our lawyers rated by Super Lawyers understand what’s at stake — your license, your freedom, your reputation, and your future.
What Constitutes A DUI In Florida?
In Florida, you can be charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI) if:
- Your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is 0.08% or higher,
- You’re impaired by alcohol, drugs, or both — even if your BAC is below 0.08%,
- Or you refuse to take a chemical test (which can result in separate penalties).
Florida’s implied consent law means that just by driving in the state, you agree to submit to a breath, blood, or urine test if law enforcement suspects impairment. False DUI arrests do still happen, though.
The Consequences Of A DUI Charge
Even a first-time DUI conviction carries serious penalties in Florida:
- Fines ranging from $500 to $1,000
- Up to 6 months in jail (or more with aggravating factors)
- Driver’s license suspension for at least 180 days
- Mandatory DUI school and possible substance abuse counseling
- Vehicle impoundment for 10 days
- Probation and community service
The penalties escalate significantly for repeat offenses or if there are aggravating circumstances—such as a high BAC (over 0.15%), having a minor in the car, or causing an accident with injuries or fatalities.
What’s At Stake Beyond The Courtroom
A DUI conviction can have ripple effects across every area of your life:
- Employment: Many employers conduct background checks and may view a DUI as a liability.
- Professional Licenses: Nurses, teachers, commercial drivers, and others may face disciplinary actions.
- Auto Insurance: Rates often increase dramatically — or coverage may be dropped altogether.
- Personal Relationships: The stigma and stress of a DUI charge can strain family and social connections.
This is why having a skilled attorney is critical. It’s not just about fighting charges — it’s about protecting your future.
How Our Firm Can Help
We know that no two DUI cases are the same. Whether you were pulled over at a checkpoint, refused a breath test, or are facing a second or third offense, we take the time to fully evaluate your situation. Our experienced legal team will:
- Examine every detail of your arrest for errors in police procedure
- Challenge inaccurate breath or field sobriety tests
- Investigate lack of probable cause or improper stops
- Negotiate for reduced charges, pretrial diversion, or dismissal when appropriate
- Represent you aggressively in court if litigation becomes necessary
Time Is Critical
If you’ve been arrested for DUI, don’t wait. You only have 10 days from the date of arrest to request a formal review hearing with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) to challenge your license suspension. Missing this deadline can result in automatic suspension — even if you haven’t been convicted yet. An attorney can help you prepare for your case, particularly if this is your first-time with a DUI charge in court.
At Stechschulte Nell, we combine legal expertise with compassionate client service as our 10.0 Avvo rating demonstrates. We know how stressful a DUI charge can be, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way — from the first court appearance to the final resolution of your case.
Our goal is not just to defend you, but to help you move forward with your life.
If you or a loved one is facing DUI charges in Florida, call us for a confidential consultation. We’ll listen to your side of the story, explain your options clearly, and fight for the best possible outcome.
Your defense starts now. Contact us today.
