Tampa DUI Manslaughter Lawyer

Tampa DUI Manslaughter Attorney

A DUI conviction can turn your life upside down, especially when the drunk or impaired driving incident results in the death of someone. If you’re facing a DUI manslaughter conviction, you need representation early on in your case from a knowledgeable DUI attorney. The legal team at Jeff Marshall Law has experience representing individuals charged with DUI and can serve as your dedicated Tampa DUI manslaughter lawyers.

There are several reasons you could be charged with DUI or driving under the influence in Florida. Driving with a blood alcohol content, or BAC, of 0.08% or higher while 21 years of age or older is one reason. For drivers of commercial vehicles, a BAC of 0.04% is the limit for DUI. Those under 21 can be arrested and later found guilty of DUI if their BAC exceeds 0.02%.

According to Florida statutes, DUI manslaughter occurs when someone operates a motor vehicle over the defined legal BAC limit and causes or contributes to causing an accident that results in the death of another person or unborn child. Florida statutes define “unborn child” to be a child of any stage of development while carried in the womb.

Penalties for DUI Manslaughter in Florida

Florida has significantly harsh penalties for those found guilty of driving under the influence. The punishments are even more severe if you’re convicted of DUI manslaughter, which is a felony according to state law. When convicted of DUI manslaughter, it will carry a four-year minimum prison sentence in Florida. Other penalties for DUI manslaughter in the state can include:

• A second-degree felony on your criminal record.
• $10,000 fine.
• A prison sentence of up to 15 years.

If you knowingly flee the scene of an automobile accident while drunk or impaired and the accident results in someone’s death, the punishments increase. Leaving the scene of a DUI manslaughter incident can carry the following penalties:

• A first-degree felony on your criminal record.
• $10,000 fine.
• A prison sentence of up to 30 years.

Additionally, a conviction of DUI manslaughter could lead to the permanent revocation of your driver’s license, making it illegal for you to operate a motor vehicle ever again.

There is an avenue for getting your driver’s license back through hardship reinstatement after five years from the date of revocation or from the date you complete your prison term, but you must have no prior DUI convictions.

Other certain criminal charges on your record such as drug convictions or driving without a license during your suspension period could make you ineligible for hardship reinstatement. You must also be alcohol and drug-free for five years after conviction in order to qualify for hardship reinstatement.

If you are eligible, you will likely be required to complete DUI school and enroll in a supervised DUI program. Plus, you might be required to have an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle. The costs for DUI school, DUI programs, and an ignition interlock device would be at your own expense.

The negative effects of the penalties for DUI manslaughter are extensive. Having a felony conviction on your record can make it difficult to find employment and housing, and even qualify for certain types of loans. Additionally, losing your driver’s license can also limit your ability to commit to a job and could deter potential employers from considering you for job openings.

Because the penalties are so severe for those found guilty of DUI manslaughter in Tampa, Florida, hiring an attorney who understands DUI laws in the state can be critical for the outcome of your case. Trust the legal team at Jeff Marshall Law for representation if you’ve been charged with DUI manslaughter. We can review the details of your case and work relentlessly in your defense.

FAQs

Q: What Is the Average Sentence for DUI Manslaughter in Florida?

A: The average sentence for DUI manslaughter in Florida varies depending on the circumstances of the case, but the minimum sentence is four years. You could also be sentenced to up to 15 years in prison for DUI manslaughter or up to 30 years if you flee the scene of a DUI manslaughter incident. DUI manslaughter is a felony in the state of Florida.

Q: How Much Does a DUI Manslaughter Lawyer Cost in Florida?

A: The cost for a DUI manslaughter lawyer in Florida varies from one legal practice to another. Additionally, the expense of legal representation depends on the complexities and nuances of your particular case. If you’ve been charged with DUI manslaughter, hiring a reputable attorney could be a sound investment by helping you reach an optimal outcome for your case.

Q: Is There a Statute of Limitations in Florida on DUI Manslaughter?

A: The statute of limitations in Florida on DUI manslaughter does not exist as defined by Florida Statute 775.15. This statute declares that prosecution for a felony resulting in death can be begun at any time. Because DUI manslaughter is a felony in Florida, the statute of limitations does not apply. You can be charged and convicted for DUI manslaughter at any period of time after the incident.

Q: Should I Get a Lawyer for a DUI Involving Manslaughter in Florida?

A: Yes, you should absolutely get a lawyer for a DUI involving manslaughter in Florida. DUI manslaughter can be a first- or second-degree felony, depending on the circumstances of the incident. The penalties in Florida are serious and could include thousands of dollars in fines, prison time, and permanent revocation of your driver’s license. Obtaining legal representation from a criminal defense lawyer can give you a better chance of defending your case in court.

Find the Help You Need for DUI Manslaughter Cases

Being charged with DUI manslaughter is not something to be taken lightly. The legal team at Jeff Marshall Law works hard to defend those involved in DUI cases, including DUI manslaughter cases. We recognize the potential long-term impact this type of conviction can have on your future and will approach your case with the seriousness it deserves.

Jeff Marshall Law can review your case details and develop an appropriate defense strategy against conviction of a DUI manslaughter. Contact us today for a free consultation.