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The Law Office Of Mark P. Rankin P.A.
877-620-0898
Attorney Mark P. Rankin sitting on courthouse steps

Providing Experienced And Steadfast Criminal Defense

Attorney Mark P. Rankin sitting on courthouse steps

Aggressive Tampa DUI Lawyer Protecting Your Reputation

A DUI charge in Florida can have serious and immediate consequences. From license suspension to jail time and long-term impact on your record, the stakes are high, even for a first offense. If you’ve been arrested for drunk driving in Tampa or anywhere in the state of Florida, you need a knowledgeable and responsive Tampa DUI lawyer to help you navigate the process and protect your rights.

At The Law Office of Mark P. Rankin, P.A., clients receive direct, experienced legal representation in DUI and criminal defense cases throughout Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater and the surrounding areas. Attorney Mark Rankin also handles DUI cases in federal court, where penalties and procedures differ significantly from state-level prosecutions.

Types Of DUI Charges

Florida law prohibits operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% or higher, or while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Attorney Rankin represents clients in a wide range of DUI-related cases, including:

  • First-time DUI
  • Repeat DUI offenses
  • DUI with property damage
  • DUI with bodily injury or death
  • Underage DUI
  • Commercial driver DUI
  • DUI involving reckless driving
  • Refusal to submit to breath or blood testing
  • DUI while driving with a suspended license
  • DUI enhancement due to prior criminal history
  • DUI causing serious bodily injury or vehicular homicide

Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or felony charge, attorney Rankin provides clear guidance, develops strategic defenses and fights to preserve your driving privileges and your record.

Federal DUI Charges

While most DUI cases in Florida are prosecuted in state court, a federal DUI charge can arise when the offense occurs on federal property. This includes:

  • National parks or monuments
  • Military bases
  • Federal buildings or installations
  • Airports
  • Areas patrolled by federal agencies

Federal DUI charges are prosecuted under the Code of Federal Regulations or assimilated state laws through the Assimilative Crimes Act. These cases often move quickly and may carry additional consequences such as federal probation or a criminal record that affects federal employment or security clearance. Attorney Rankin is one of the few Tampa DUI lawyers experienced in both state and federal DUI defense.

When Is A DUI A Misdemeanor Versus A Felony?

Most first and second DUI offenses in Florida are classified as misdemeanors. However, a DUI can become a felony if it involves serious bodily injury, a third DUI within 10 years or any DUI resulting in death. Felony DUI convictions carry longer prison terms, higher fines and long-term consequences.

What Is The Penalty For DUI In Florida?

Penalties vary based on BAC level, prior offenses and whether anyone was injured. A first-time DUI in Florida may result in up to six months in jail, license suspension, fines, probation and mandatory DUI education courses. Aggravated or felony DUIs can result in years of imprisonment and permanent revocation of driving privileges.

Is Your License Suspended Immediately After A DUI In Florida?

Yes. Florida law allows for immediate administrative suspension of your license after a DUI arrest, even before a conviction. You have 10 days from the date of arrest to request a hearing to contest the suspension. An experienced attorney can help protect your right to drive during this process.

Charged With A DUI? Don’t Wait. Call A Tampa DUI Lawyer Today.

Whether you’re facing a first-time DUI or a serious felony DUI charge, The Law Office of Mark P. Rankin, P.A., provides strategic defense tailored to your situation. Attorney Rankin represents clients throughout Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater and West Central Florida, as well as in federal court when DUI charges fall under federal jurisdiction.

Call attorney Rankin at 877-620-0898 or contact him online to schedule your free consultation. Meetings are available in Tampa, St. Petersburg or Clearwater – or virtually if needed. Don’t let a DUI define your future. Get the defense you deserve.