Criminal Traffic Cases Tampa

If you are facing a criminal traffic charge in Florida, such as driving under the influence, knowing that you have legal rights and options to defend yourself is essential. But just because you are charged with a crime does not mean you will be convicted.

Woman in car with police lights in the background

At Carlson Meissner & Hayslett, our criminal traffic defense lawyers have a track record of successfully defending clients in these cases. We will help you navigate the legal system and build a winning defense strategy to protect your rights.

Types of Criminal Traffic Violations in Florida

Many drivers are unaware that some traffic violations, which may seem minor or victimless, can be considered criminal offenses with severe penalties under Florida law. These include:

Habitual traffic offenses
Driving without a valid driver's license
Driving with an expired driver's license
Driving while your license is suspended
Reckless driving
Leaving the scene of an accident
Refusal to submit to a breath test
Unlawful use of an identification card
Unlawful display of a license
Operating a motorcycle without the proper credential on your license
Racing on a highway
Attaching a tag not assigned to your vehicle
Driving with an expired vehicle registration
Allowing an unauthorized person to drive your vehicle
Driving under the influence (DUI)
Vehicular homicide or manslaughter

Penalties for Criminal Traffic Violations in Florida

Florida's penalties for criminal traffic offenses are outlined in Florida Statutes § 775.082 and 775.083. These differ based on the severity of the crime, such as:

A first-degree felony is punishable by a fine of up to $10,000 and 30 years in prison
Second-degree felony attracts a fine of up to $10,000 and is punishable by 15 years in prison
Third-degree felony attracts a fine of up to $5,000 and is punishable by five years in prison
First-degree misdemeanor attracts a fine of up to $1,000 and is punishable by one year in jail
A second-degree misdemeanor is punishable by a fine of up to $500 and 60 days in jail

License Suspension in a Florida Criminal Traffic Case

The Florida Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can suspend a driver's license if they accumulate too many points within a certain period.

For instance:

If you get 12 points on your license within 12 months, your license will be suspended for 30 days
If you accumulate 18 points within 18 months, your license will be suspended for three months

Furthermore, attending a traffic school can be time-consuming and expensive and will count as one of your lifetime elections. This makes it necessary to take traffic violations seriously and consult with an experienced criminal traffic attorney as quickly as possible.

Appealing a Traffic Court Decision

In Florida, you can appeal the decision if you have been found guilty of a criminal traffic offense. The appellate department of the court will review the evidence and testimony presented during the original trial to determine if any errors or legal issues occurred that may have affected the verdict. You need an experienced criminal traffic attorney to represent you during the appeals process for favorable outcomes.

Get Legal Representation from Prove Criminal Traffic Defense Lawyers in Florida

If you or someone you love has been charged with a criminal traffic violation in Florida, the experienced and resilient attorneys at Carlson Meissner & Hayslett can help. They will investigate your case's facts and circumstances and prepare a solid legal strategy that keeps you out of prison. To set up your free and confidential consultation, call us today at 877-728-9653 or reach us online.