Clearwater Felony DUI Attorney

Understanding Felony & Aggravated DUI Charges in Clearwater

Handling DUI charges in Clearwater demands in-depth knowledge of Florida law and the local court system. Aggravating factors can quickly escalate a case, and local procedures and enforcement practices often play a key role in the outcome. At Tinny, Meyer & Piccarreto, P.A., our attorneys use this local insight to build defense strategies tailored specifically to Clearwater’s courts and statutes.

Schedule your consultation with our defense attorneys today - available 24/7 throughout Clearwater, St. Pete, and New Port Richey.

Are You Facing an Aggravated DUI Charge in Florida?

In the state of Florida, drunk driving offenses are typically charged as misdemeanors. However, a DUI charge can be elevated to a felony if it involves one or more of the following aggravating factors:

• The offense is the driver’s third DUI within a 10-year period
• The offense is the driver’s fourth DUI, regardless of the time period
• The offense causes another person to suffer serious bodily injury
• The offense causes a fatality

Aggravated DUI charges carry severe legal penalties as well as significant personal and professional consequences. Convictions may lead to long-term challenges in securing employment and maintaining professional licenses. Understanding these risks underscores the importance of forming a robust defense. Consulting with a knowledgeable felony DUI lawyer in Clearwater can provide invaluable guidance to navigate these complex charges successfully.

What Should I Do If I'm Charged with a Felony DUI in Clearwater?

If you are facing felony DUI charges in Clearwater, it's crucial to act quickly. First, ensure you understand the specific charges against you, as this will significantly impact your legal strategy. Contact a reputable felony DUI attorney in Clearwater who knows the local legal system to guide you through your next steps. At Tinny, Meyer & Piccarreto, P.A., we recommend documenting all recollections of the events leading to your arrest and gathering any potential witness contacts that might support your version of events.

35+ Years of Defense Experience By Your Side

When facing serious criminal charges, it is vital that you have a proven defense attorney in your corner. If you have been charged with felony DUI, you should retain the skilled legal counsel of an experienced Clearwater DUI lawyer immediately.

Our team at Tinny, Meyer & Piccarreto, P.A. has more than 35 years of legal experience, and we have helped countless individuals fight their DUI charges. If you would like to discuss your case with our seasoned law firm, call (727) 245-9009 to request a consultation!

“Anyone can be arrested, but everyone I represent will have their rights protected.” – Attorney Kevin J. Piccarreto

Penalties for Felony DUI in Florida

The penalties for aggravated DUI charges will depend upon the circumstances involved in the specific offense.

In Clearwater, understanding the local application of penalty structures is crucial. Local courts may consider additional factors, such as the defendant's prior criminal record or involvement in community service, which can influence sentencing. An adept attorney can offer insights into mitigating circumstances and potential plea bargains, which could lessen the penalties faced.

Third DUI

• Fine up to $5,000
• Up to 5 years in state prison and/or 5 years of probation
• Minimum 10-year revocation of driver’s license

Fourth DUI

• Fine up to $5,000
• Up to 5 years in state prison and/or 5 years of probation
• Mandatory permanent revocation of driver’s license

DUI Causing Serious Bodily Injury

• Fine up to $5,000
• Up to 5 years in state prison and/or 5 years of probation
• Possible restitution to the victim(s)
• Minimum 3-year suspension or revocation of driver’s license

DUI Manslaughter

• Fine up to $10,000
• Up to 15 years in state prison
• Minimum 3-year revocation up to permanent revocation of driver’s license

DUI Manslaughter with Leaving the Scene

• Fine up to $10,000
• Up to 30 years in state prison
• Permanent revocation of driver’s license

Each of these penalties highlights the necessity of retaining competent legal representation. An attorney skilled in DUI defense can explore defenses like evidentiary challenges and constitutional violations, which can be pivotal in reducing a client's exposure to these harsh sentences.

Our Approach to Felony DUI Cases

At Tinny, Meyer & Piccarreto, P.A., we adopt a detailed-oriented approach in evaluating each felony DUI case in Clearwater. Recognizing the severe impact these charges have on an individual’s life, our defense strategies begin by meticulously analyzing every piece of evidence and police report for inconsistencies or errors. We understand each client's situation is unique; as such, our strategies are tailored specifically to maximize potential defenses.

Florida law is rigorous, but we advocate for reduced penalties such as incorporating community service or rehabilitation programs instead of prison terms. Our commitment is bolstered by our former prosecutors’ experience, providing the leverage to anticipate the prosecution's tactics and develop a robust defense plan.

How Can a DUI Affect My Professional Life?

A DUI conviction can have devastating effects on your professional life, impacting job opportunities and possibly leading to the loss of professional licenses. Some employers are required to conduct background checks and may terminate employment if a DUI is present in your record. In Clearwater, where local employers might be familiar with public records, it's particularly essential to seek legal counsel from a felony DUI attorney in Clearwater who can help you navigate these disclosures and work towards mitigating potential damages.

What Are the Common Mistakes to Avoid After a DUI Arrest?

One of the most critical mistakes to avoid after a DUI arrest is failing to take the matter seriously. Underestimating the severity of a felony DUI charge can lead to inadequate preparation, which may result in more severe penalties. Additionally, speaking to law enforcement without legal representation can introduce self-incriminating statements into evidence. It’s advisable to promptly contact a felony DUI lawyer in Clearwater who can provide guidance on dealing with police, navigating the judicial process, and formulating a robust defense strategy tailored to Clearwater's legal environment.

Don’t Wait; Call Our Felony DUI Lawyer Today!

It’s important to understand that you don’t have to face a felony DUI charge alone. When you choose Tinny, Meyer & Piccarreto, P.A. for your case, you receive personalized solutions and dedicated counsel. Our Clearwater defense attorneys are available to answer clients’ questions 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, providing clients with regular updates on their cases.

Offering an immediate and comprehensive defense strategy is part of our commitment. We engage in thorough case evaluations to identify all possible defense avenues. Whether it's investigating evidence collection methods or examining the legality of police procedures during your arrest, we leave no stone unturned. Our goal is to ensure that every client is fully informed of their rights and all potential outcomes.

Call (727) 245-9009 to request your free case evaluation - with over 35 years of experience, let us fight to protect your rights in your felony DUI case.