The Strong Defense
You Deserve
Image of attorneys and staff at Brunvand, Wise & Farinella Law Group
Is a DUI a Felony in Florida? Here’s What Tampa’s Brunvand & Wise Law Group Wants You to Know
When facing DUI charges in Tampa, it’s essential to understand the stakes—and when a DUI transforms from a mere misdemeanor into a felony. At Brunvand & Wise Law Group, we’ve seen how even a seemingly minor DUI can carry life-altering consequences. Here’s what potential clients in Tampa need to know about DUI law in Florida, and why having an experienced criminal defense attorney by your side can make all the difference.
Misdemeanor DUI—What That Means
In Florida, most first-time DUI charges are classified as misdemeanors—unless there are aggravating factors like serious injury or fatalities. Even so, misdemeanors are not “minor” in practical terms. Convictions can result in:
- Up to 6 months of probation
- A six-month driver’s license suspension
- 50 hours of community service
- A $500 fine
- Mandatory DUI school and attendance at a Victim Impact Panel
- Vehicle impoundment
- Jail time or sanctions for violating probation terms
Even if it’s your first offense, these penalties can disrupt your job, housing, and future opportunities—not to mention the emotional toll. At Brunvand & Wise, we know how to defend clients aggressively to avoid or reduce these consequences.
When a DUI Becomes a Felony in Florida
Florida classifies a DUI as a felony under these circumstances:
- Third (or subsequent) DUI within ten years
The third DUI offense is often enhanced to a felony level, carrying more severe penalties—such as longer jail time, higher fines, and heightened license suspensions. - DUI resulting in serious bodily injury
If someone else is badly hurt due to your impaired driving, that elevates the DUI to a felony. This can bring prison time, civil liability, and lifelong consequences. - DUI causing death—DUI Manslaughter
A DUI that results in a fatality is one of the most serious charges in Florida criminal law. Convictions can mean decades behind bars and massive emotional and financial repercussions.
Felony convictions in Florida—and especially in the Tampa area—carry much greater penalties than misdemeanors. You may be facing multiple years in prison, significant fines, and a criminal record that will follow you permanently.
Why You Need a Skilled Attorney on Your Side
A DUI charge is not just a traffic issue—it’s criminal. From challenging blood-alcohol tests to questioning the legality of a traffic stop, there are numerous defenses worth exploring. An experienced criminal defense firm like Brunvand & Wise Law Group can:
- Analyze the specific facts of your case—how your stop began, how sobriety tests were conducted, and whether evidence holds up.
- Challenge breath or blood tests, especially if it’s a first offense or the results are questionable.
- Mitigate penalties by negotiating with prosecutors—particularly important if your case crosses into felony territory.
- Fight to protect your driver’s license, including filing the required paperwork to contest DMV suspensions within the 10-day deadline.
- Provide personalized defense strategies, whether you’re facing a first-time misdemeanor or a grave felony DUI.
Final Thoughts
If you’re charged with a DUI in Tampa, whether it’s a first-time offense or something more serious—don’t wait. The sooner you speak with Brunvand & Wise Law Group, the sooner we can begin building your defense and protecting your future.
Let us guide you through this stressful process with confidence, clarity, and comprehensive legal support. Your rights, your freedom, and your future are worth fighting for.