St. Petersburg DUI Lawyers
Serving All of Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Manatee Counties
Even a single DUI conviction can hurt your reputation and opportunities in your career or education. It can also result in jail time. Multiple DUI convictions can stack up and leave you facing lengthier prison sentences and steeper fines. It is imperative that people facing these charges get good legal counsel from lawyers who understand DUI cases and how to challenge them. We do.
Plotnick Law Offices has been serving the Tampa Bay Area since 2004. Our founder has wide-ranging experience that includes being a prosecutor before moving into criminal defense practice. We know the system from both sides of the aisle, and we leverage that knowledge on behalf of our clients.
Call (727) 619-1827 or contact us online today to schedule a consultation. We can meet in person at our St. Petersburg office or over video conference.
DUI Penalties in Florida
The penalties can be enhanced based on factors that include whether you already have a DUI conviction on your record within the past 10 years, whether anyone was hurt or killed while you were driving, and whether a minor was in the vehicle.
The following is an overview of basic DUI penalties:
- First DUI offense: This could result in up to six months in jail and a fine of $500 to $1,000.
- Second DUI offense: This could result in up to nine months in jail and a fine of $1,000 to $2,000.
- Third DUI offense: This could result in up to one year in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.
- Fourth or greater DUI offense: This could result in five years of prison time with fines up to $5,000.
The suspension of your driver’s license will typically be a consequence of any DUI conviction.
Why Choose Plotnick Law Offices?
Experience, Commitment, and Personalized Care
As a former prosecutor, we understand how to build strong cases. Our hands-on approach ensures you’re supported every step of the way.
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Experience That Matters
Led by a former prosecutor, Plotnick Law Offices offers unique insights and strategic advantages for every case. Our deep understanding of the legal system ensures that we can effectively advocate for your rights and best interests.
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Relentless Preparation
Success begins with preparation. We leave no stone unturned when investigating and building your case, ensuring that every detail is thoroughly examined to strengthen your position.
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Hands-On Advocacy
When you choose Plotnick Law Offices, you’ll work directly with an experienced attorney from start to finish. We don’t shuffle clients between attorneys—you’ll always have consistent and reliable guidance.
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Personalized Representation
At Plotnick Law Offices, we prioritize building strong, lasting relationships with our clients. We take the time to understand your unique needs and goals, ensuring that your case strategy is tailored to achieve the best possible outcome for you.
Experienced DUI Lawyers Available 24/7
The sooner we get started on your case, the better your chances will be. We are available around the clock to take your calls, so don’t hesitate to get in touch with us about the details of your case. We can guide you through every step of your case and advocate on your behalf.
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“I cannot thank you enough for your help, Marc, honestly. I made a stupid mistake and it took you no time to take care of the situation.”- Frank M.
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“I would definitely recommend them to someone in need of any attorney services.”- Priestly V.
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“He is compassionate and helpful.”- Carolyn A.
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“In the end, the result was way over my expectations.”- J. Hughes
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“Quick to respond to communications and always kept me informed during the entire process.”- Michael K.
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“I truly appreciate everything he did and his communication with me was greatly appreciated.”- Tawna L.
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“Nothing is worse than waiting around wondering what’s going to happen to you, which didn’t happen at all after hiring Marc.”- Jared
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“When I tell you they treat you like family, that's no lie!”- Jeffrey B.
Want to learn more about the team behind your case? Visit our About page to meet Marc F. Plotnick and Paul S. Horning, and discover how their experience can make a difference for you.
Challenging a DUI Charge in Florida
There are several angles a defense attorney can explore, each designed to identify flaws or gaps that may exist in the prosecution’s case. Here are some common areas of focus:
The Legitimacy of the Traffic Stop
Law enforcement officers must have a valid reason to initiate a traffic stop, except at designated sobriety checkpoints. There must be observable behavior indicating impairment or a violation of traffic laws.
While the threshold for reasonable suspicion is low, the state must still justify it. If the stop is deemed unjustified, all subsequent evidence collected may be inadmissible.