What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Hillsborough County, Florida?

If you were recently arrested for DUI in Hillsborough County, you are likely facing a confusing and stressful process. Understanding what happens next — and what you need to do to protect yourself — can make all the difference. At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we guide clients through every stage of the DUI process, from arrest to resolution.

Here are answers to some of the most common questions people have after a DUI arrest in Tampa.

1. Will I Go to Jail After a DUI Arrest in Hillsborough County?

If you are arrested for DUI, you will usually be taken to jail and held for a minimum period before release. Florida law requires that individuals arrested for DUI be held until:

• Their blood alcohol content (BAC) drops below 0.05%, or

• 8 hours have passed since the time of arrest, or

• They are no longer under the influence to the extent their normal faculties are impaired.

After release, you will receive a notice to appear in court. However, depending on the case circumstances, a skilled DUI defense lawyer may be able to minimize or avoid additional jail time.

2. How Long Do I Have to Fight My Driver’s License Suspension?

You have only 10 days from the date of your arrest to request a formal review hearing with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV).

If you do not act within that 10-day window, your driver’s license will be automatically suspended — even if your criminal case is still pending.

At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we handle both the DHSMV administrative hearing and the criminal court case to protect your rights on both fronts.

3. What Are the Penalties for a First-Time DUI in Tampa?

A first-time DUI conviction in Florida can result in:

• Up to 6 months in jail

• Fines ranging from $500 to $1,000

• License suspension from 6 to 12 months

• Mandatory DUI school

• Probation for up to one year

• 10-day vehicle impoundment

• Possible ignition interlock device (in certain cases)

The penalties increase if your BAC was above 0.15% or if there was a minor in the vehicle at the time of arrest.

4. Can I Beat a DUI Charge in Hillsborough County?

Yes, DUI charges can sometimes be dismissed, reduced, or successfully defended depending on the facts of your case. Some common DUI defenses include:

• Challenging the legality of the traffic stop

• Contesting the accuracy of the breathalyzer or blood test

• Questioning the validity of field sobriety exercises

• Arguing procedural errors during the arrest

• Demonstrating medical conditions that mimic impairment

Each case is unique. A personalized defense strategy is crucial to achieving the best possible outcome.

5. Will My DUI Case Go to Trial?

Not all DUI cases go to trial. In fact, many are resolved through negotiations, motions to suppress evidence, or plea agreements. However, if negotiations do not result in an acceptable outcome — or if the government’s evidence is weak — taking the case to trial may be the best option.

At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we prepare every case as if it will go to trial. This approach strengthens your position whether in negotiations or in front of a jury.

6. What Happens to Out-of-State Drivers Arrested for DUI in Tampa?

If you are an out-of-state resident arrested for DUI in Hillsborough County, Florida will still pursue criminal charges against you. In addition, your home state may take action against your driver’s license through the Interstate Driver’s License Compact.

It is critical to have a local Tampa DUI lawyer who can appear on your behalf when possible and guide you through protecting your home-state license.

7. Can a DUI Arrest Affect My Job or Professional License?

Yes. A DUI arrest — even before a conviction — can have serious consequences for certain careers, especially those involving:

• Commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs)

• Medical licenses (doctors, nurses, pharmacists)

• Teaching credentials

• Security clearances

• Law enforcement or government employment

At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we work proactively to minimize the impact on your employment and professional licenses.

8. How Can a Tampa DUI Lawyer Help Me After an Arrest?

An experienced DUI lawyer does more than represent you in court. At The Brancato Law Firm, we:

• Investigate and challenge the evidence

• Fight to save your driver’s license

• Handle court appearances and DMV hearings

• Negotiate for charge reductions when appropriate

• Prepare and present trial defenses

• Advocate to minimize or avoid penalties

Early intervention is key. The sooner you contact an attorney after your arrest, the more options you have to protect your future.

Contact The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. for DUI Defense in Hillsborough County

If you or a loved one has been arrested for DUI in Tampa or anywhere in Hillsborough County, do not wait. Contact The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. today. We are ready to put our decades of courtroom experience to work fighting for you.

Call (813) 592-8981 or complete our confidential online form to schedule your case evaluation.

Tampa DUI Lawyer