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Tampa Felony & Misdemeanor DUI Lawyer – Protecting Your Rights & Future

A DUI charge can impact your freedom, finances, and future opportunities. Jessica C. Fernandez, P.A. has the experience to challenge DUI evidence, negotiate reduced charges, and protect your future.

What to Do After a Felony or Misdemeanor DUI Arrest in Tampa

✔ Stay Silent & Do Not Admit Guilt – Anything you say can be used against you. Politely decline to answer questions without an attorney.
✔ Write Down Everything You Remember – Details like when, where, and how you were stopped can be crucial to your defense.
✔ Do Not Accept a Plea Deal Without Legal Advice – Prosecutors may offer quick deals that harm your future.
✔ Challenge the Evidence – Breathalyzers and field sobriety tests can be faulty, unreliable, or improperly administered.
✔ Consult a DUI Defense Lawyer Immediately – The sooner you get legal representation, the stronger your case.

"A DUI charge doesn’t have to ruin your life. I will fight to reduce your penalties, challenge faulty evidence, and protect your future."

– Jessica C. Fernandez, P.A.

Speak to an Attorney Now

DUI, Understanding the Difference between felony and misdemeanor dui, jessica c. fernandez

What’s the Difference Between a Misdemeanor & Felony DUI in Florida?

Misdemeanor DUI – Most first-time and second-time DUI offenses without injuries are classified as misdemeanors. Penalties include fines, probation, community service, and possible jail time.

Felony DUI – A third DUI within 10 years, a fourth DUI offense, or any DUI involving injury or death is charged as a felony. Convictions carry prison sentences, heavy fines, and long-term license revocation.

What Type of DUI Charge Are You Facing?

Misdemeanor DUI

Felony DUI

Underage DUI (Zero Tolerance Cases)

DUI with Injury or Death

DUI Refusal Cases

Understanding Misdemeanor DUI Charges in Florida

First-Time DUI (Misdemeanor)

Up to 6 months in jail
$500–$1,000 fines
6-12 month license suspension
DUI school & community service

Second DUI
(Misdemeanor if No Injury)

Up to 9 months in jail
Fines up to $2,000
License suspension for up to 5 years
Mandatory ignition interlock device

Understanding Felony DUI Charges in Florida

Third DUI Within 10 Years (Felony DUI)

Up to 5 years in prison
Fines up to $5,000
License suspension up to 10 years
Probation & mandatory alcohol treatment

Second DUI
(Misdemeanor if No Injury)

Prison sentence of up to 5 years
Fines up to $5,000
Victim restitution payments

DUI Manslaughter

(Felony DUI)

Mandatory 4-year prison sentence (up to 15 years max)
Fines up to $10,000
Permanent license revocation

Aggressive DUI Defense Attorney – Challenges breathalyzer results, field sobriety tests, and police procedures
Knowledge of Florida DUI Laws – Extensive experience negotiating reduced charges & dismissals
Handles First-Time DUIs, Felony DUIs & DUI with Injury Cases
Bilingual Representation – Se Habla Español