Florida Driver’s License Suspension Hearings. First of all, here is the Bureau of Administrative Reviews located in Clearwater, Florida. Most noteworthy, the office handles license suspension hearings for Pinellas, Pasco, and Hernando Counties. Florida suspends licenses for a number of reasons. Furthermore, drivers regain driving privileges here after being charged with a DUI in Clearwater. Also, drivers can also obtain a Business Purposes Only license here.
Finally, is your License Suspended? Call Casey at (813) 222-2220.
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DUI Information for Clearwater, Florida
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) laws and penalties vary by state and even within different jurisdictions within a state. Here is some general information about DUI laws in Florida, including Clearwater. However, keep in mind that laws may have changed, and it’s essential to consult with a legal professional for the most current advice.
Penalties for DUI in Florida:
- Administrative Penalties:
- License suspension: Immediate suspension of the driver’s license upon failing or refusing a breath test.
- Ignition Interlock Device (IID): Installation of an IID may be required, especially for subsequent offenses.
- Criminal Penalties:
- Fines: Monetary penalties that increase with subsequent offenses.
- Jail time: Mandatory imprisonment, especially for repeat offenses.
- Probation: Supervised probation with conditions such as alcohol education or treatment.
- Community service: Required hours of community service.
- Vehicle Impoundment: The vehicle used in the commission of the DUI offense may be impounded.
- Court-Ordered Programs:
- DUI School: Completion of a state-approved DUI education program.
- Substance Abuse Treatment: Required for individuals with substance abuse issues.
- Permanent Record: A DUI conviction becomes a part of the driver’s permanent record.
- Enhanced Penalties for Aggravating Factors:
- Higher BAC levels may result in enhanced penalties.
- DUI with property damage or injury can lead to more severe consequences.
It’s crucial to consult with an attorney if you are facing DUI charges. They can provide advice tailored to your specific situation and help navigate the legal process. Additionally, laws may have changed since my last update, so checking the latest statutes and regulations is essential for accurate information.
Facing DUI Charges in Clearwater, Florida?
Discover your options and protect your rights with our experienced DUI defense attorney.
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Types of DUI Charges in Clearwater, Florida
| DUI Charge | Description |
|---|---|
| First Time DUI | No priors; no injury or property damage. |
| Multiple DUI | Prior convictions; potential felony charge. |
| Felony DUI | 3 DUIs in 10 years OR 4th DUI OR injury. |
| DUI with Serious Bodily Injury | Felony; injury causing disfigurement or death. |
| Aggravated DUI | BAC .15% or above OR presence of children. |
| DUI with Drugs | Under drug influence, not alcohol. |
| DUI with Property Damage | Damaged property under alcohol/drug influence. |
| DUI Manslaughter | Felony; someone died due to DUI. |
| Commercial Vehicle DUI (CDL DUI) | Commercial drivers held to higher DUI standard. |
| Under 21 DUI (Zero Tolerance) | Below 21, over .02%; facing DUI charges. |
| Boating Under the Influence (BUI) | DUI laws apply to boating; limit .08%. |
What Happens When You Get Arrested for DUI?
When arrested for DUI, two processes kick in: criminal court proceedings and administrative actions such as license suspension.
The criminal charge leads to a court date, potentially involving penalties like jail time, probation, or community service. Simultaneously, the police officer may suspend your license immediately.
It’s crucial to understand the distinction between the criminal and administrative processes — they are unrelated and do not affect each other.
Administrative Suspension
If arrested with a BAC over .08, your license is suspended for six months. For first-time offenders, options include a formal review hearing or enrolling in DUI school for a hardship permit.
Choosing a hardship license means the .08 suspension stays on your record, impacting insurance costs and job prospects even if the criminal case is won or dismissed.
Requesting a DHSMV formal review hearing triggers a short hardship permit, with a hearing scheduled within 30 days. Winning the hearing lifts the suspension; losing leads to a “no-drive” period, followed by a hardship permit if enrolled in DUI school.
Florida DUI Table of Penalties
| DUI Offense | Penalties |
|---|---|
| First DUI |
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| Second DUI |
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| Third DUI (Felony) |
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When facing DUI charges, thorough evaluation and understanding of the case are essential. We specialize in various DUI defense topics, including drug-related accusations, felony DUI, DUI manslaughter, and more.
Contact us for a free consultation to discuss the specifics of your case and receive expert guidance.
Why Choose Us for Clearwater DUI Defense?
Decades of experience, a background in the state attorney’s office, and a commitment to your defense set us apart. Our skilled team is dedicated to providing top-notch representation.
Call us for a free consultation: 813-222-2220
Let us help you 813.222.2220
Types of DUI Charges in Clearwater, FL
Understanding the specific DUI charge is crucial, as penalties vary based on factors like prior offenses, BAC levels, injuries, property damage, and age.
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- First time DUI: No prior offenses, no aggravating factors.
- Multiple DUI: Prior convictions, potential felony charges.
- Boating Under the Influence (BUI): DUI laws apply to boating; legal limit is .08%.
Regardless of the charge, consulting a Clearwater DUI attorney is crucial. Contact us at 813-222-2220 for a free consultation and comprehensive legal assistance.
The Law on Misdemeanor DUI in Clearwater, Florida
Under Florida law, a misdemeanor DUI applies when an individual is driving or in physical control of a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, chemical substances, or controlled substances.
Regardless of the substance involved, impairment of normal faculties results in a misdemeanor DUI charge, which can have serious consequences on personal and professional life.
Free Consultation for Your DUI Case
Our consultations are free, confidential, and crucial for your DUI defense. Schedule within 10 days to avoid missing essential decisions.
Call 813-222-2220 now to discuss your case with our experienced DUI defense attorney.
Additional Information
Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Florida, with severe consequences based on case specifics. For first-time offenders, the misdemeanor charge might seem less severe, but it can significantly impact your life.
Prosecution often has substantial evidence, affecting case outcomes. Hiring an experienced DUI defense lawyer is crucial to building a strong defense and navigating legal complexities.
If you’re looking for a top law firm to fight your DUI case in Clearwater, Casey the Lawyer is here for you. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us fight your DUI charges together.
Don’t hesitate to reach out. Call Casey the Lawyer at 813-222-2220 for a free consultation and expert guidance in Clearwater, Florida.
Mandatory Field Sobriety Testing Imposed in Clearwater, Florida
Before 2014, the attending officer had discretion in giving the roadside field sobriety tests (FST). Furthermore, these FST are usually “failed.” Early on January 23, 2014, two Clearwater DUI cops found the DUI driver was a fellow officer. They decided to give him a ride home with no FST. The public found out on April 29, 2014, when the Tampa Bay Times reported it. As a result, Clearwater police Chief Tony Holloway created a policy so this won’t happen again. Now almost everyone, not just suspects with a hint of alcohol on their breath can expect a run-around that almost always ends in DUI in Clearwater. Clearwater Police FST Policy
Lawyer Reports on Clearwater Police Department DUI Unit
Clearwater DUI Attorney reports that the Clearwater Police Department DUI Team is using “slick top”, video-equipped, mostly Ford Crown Victoria, marked police cruisers. Since the cars have no visible overhead emergency lights, they are harder to spot as cop cars. Also, the police primarily patrol high volume roads throughout the city for aggressive and impaired drivers. Due to the high number of DUI in Clearwater charged, all five (5) of the officers on the team have been recognized by Mothers Against Drunk Driving for their aggressive enforcement of drunk driving laws. W.F. ”Casey Ebsary, Jr., a Board Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer from Tampa is available at 877-793-9290 to assist in defending against aggressive enforcement of traffic laws.
Clearwater Sobriety Checkpoint
We Have Previously Reported:
Pinellas DUI Attorney notes a Clearwater Sobriety Checkpoint Friday, October 19, 10 pm to Saturday, October 20, 3 am, at the National Aviation Academy, 6225 Ulmerton Road in Clearwater. Also, this is the first time we have seen this location used to look for DUI in Clearwater.
Pinellas DUI Checkpoint 3655 Tampa Road Oldsmar, Florida | Sep 28, 2012
Pinellas Deputies and Largo Police To Conduct a Sobriety Checkpoint In Pinellas County in Largo. Deputies will conduct a DUI checkpoint tonight. Also, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office has zero-tolerance for driving intoxicated from drinking or drugs.
Since there is a DUI checkpoint there will be many people charged with DUI. Also, there will be arrests driving without a valid license and driving with a suspended or revoked license.
In an effort to reduce DUI related injuries and save lives this Holiday season, Pinellas County deputies will conduct four DUI checkpoints over the next two weekends. The sobriety checkpoints will be conducted at multiple locations.
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