Let Us Protect You And Your License Against DUI Charges

Anyone can find themselves facing DUI charges, and many of these people have never been in trouble with the law before. From white collar professionals to underage drivers, the DUI process can be frightening and stressful for everyone. The smart thing to do is to immediately secure the representation of an experienced DUI attorney who knows our local courts and how they approach drunk driving charges.

If you have been arrested for drunk driving/driving under the influence (DUI) in the Tampa Bay area, consult an experienced local DUI defense attorney right away. Penalties are harsh and laws can vary from county to county, and working with a lawyer who specializes in DUI charges in Pinellas, Hillsborough and nearby Florida counties is critical to protect your rights.

It is extremely important that you speak with a DUI defense attorney as early as possible, prior to the expiration of 10 days from your arrest or citation to ensure that your driving privileges are protected.

Our Extensive DUI Experience Can Make A Difference In Your Case

The attorneys of Brunvand & Wise Law Group, have been representing individuals facing DUIs in Tampa, St. Pete, Clearwater and the surrounding areas for more than 40 years combined. Lead attorneys Bjorn Brunvand and Jervis Wise are board-certified criminal trial lawyers. They lead the firm with their expertise and experience in DUI cases. Our office defends people facing every drunk driving-related charge from first time DUI to DUI manslaughter. Each of our attorneys is well-versed in every aspect of Florida DUI law and aggressively defends each of the firm’s DUI clients. We practice in courts around Tampa Bay and surrounding counties.

The attorneys of Brunvand & Wise Law Group, have guided numerous clients charged with DUI offenses through the process with a combination of skill, experience, tenacity and understanding. Let us fight the charges and seek a favorable result. We know that a DUI is often the first and only experience that a person has with the criminal justice system. It can be overwhelming and confusing. Our Tampa DUI attorneys can help from the time of arrest until the final resolution in court.

What Will Determine If Your DUI Charge Is A Felony Or A Misdemeanor?

Whether your DUI charge will be classified as a felony or a misdemeanor will depend on several factors, including:

• Prior DUI convictions: A first or second DUI offense is usually a misdemeanor. However, if you have multiple prior DUI convictions, the following offenses may be charged as felonies.
• Injury or death: If the DUI incident involves an accident that causes serious bodily injury or death, the charge is likely to be elevated to a felony.
• BAC level: Florida imposes harsher penalties if the driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is significantly above the legal limit (.08%). While a high BAC alone may not convert a misdemeanor to a felony, it can lead to enhanced penalties.
• Presence of minors: Driving under the influence with a minor in the vehicle can lead to felony charges due to the increased risk to the child’s safety.

Understanding these elements is essential, as they significantly impact the legal consequences one might face after a DUI arrest or charges.

Can A Florida DUI Charge Be Dismissed Or Reduced?

In Florida, a DUI charge can be dismissed or reduced, but this depends on the case’s specifics and the defense strategy’s effectiveness. Here are some common ways this might occur:

• Lack of probable cause: If an attorney can demonstrate that the officer lacked probable cause to make the traffic stop, any evidence gathered during the stop could be suppressed, potentially leading to a dismissal of the charges.
• Breathalyzer inaccuracies: If the breathalyzer was not properly calibrated or maintained or the officer did not follow protocol, the BAC results might be deemed unreliable.
• Plea bargaining: A skilled attorney may negotiate a plea deal with the prosecution to reduce the DUI charge to a lesser offense, such as reckless driving, especially if it is a first-time offense.

While these defenses can be effective, each case is unique, and the outcomes vary. Working with a DUI attorney is important for exploring favorable options for your case.

We Can Help You Put DUI Charges Behind You

When you are facing DUI charges, turn to Brunvand & Wise Law Group, for representation that can help you secure the best possible outcome and protect your driver’s license. To schedule a free initial consultation, call 813-521-8069 or contact us online.