Articles Posted in DUI

On October 1, 2025, a sweeping new Florida law known as Trenton’s Law will take effect, strengthening penalties for driving under the influence (DUI) and boating under the influence (BUI) offenses121. This law expands criminal liability for refusing chemical testing, increases punishment for repeat offenders, and creates enhanced sentencing rules for DUI manslaughter, BUI manslaughter,…

Most people–even some “DUI Attorneys””–only think about the criminal case when they are arrested for DUI in Florida. But the reality is harsher: Florida’s Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) automatically suspends your license unless you request a hearing within 10 days. This usually happens before you ever go to court on the…

Why Breath Test Machine Maintenance Matters When police arrest someone for DUI in Florida, prosecutors often rely on the Intoxilyzer 8000. If the Intoxilyzer is not properly maintained, however, its results can be excluded. That can mean the difference between a conviction and a dismissal. The Case of Unauthorized Intoxilyzer Repair In State v. Kilburn,…

Challenge Field Sobriety Tests in Tampa DUI Cases Were you arrested for DUI in Tampa after supposedly failing a field sobriety test? You’re not alone—and you still have strong legal options. At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we routinely help clients challenge field sobriety results and weaken the case against them. These tests are far…

DUI Arrest Child Custody Tampa Florida – Know Your Risks and What to Do If you’re a parent who has been arrested for DUI in Florida, you may be worried about more than just your license or fines. A DUI arrest can raise serious questions about your ability to share custody or maintain your parenting…

Reckless Driving Lawyer Tampa: Your Guide to Fighting a Serious Charge Facing a reckless driving charge in Tampa? It’s more than a simple traffic ticket. It’s a serious criminal offense that can put your freedom, finances, and future at risk. Understanding your rights and options is the first step toward a strong defense. If you’ve…

If you are facing a Driving Under the Influence (DUI) charge in Tampa, Florida, the legal road ahead can feel overwhelming. Beyond the immediate court dates and potential license suspension, a DUI conviction also triggers significant and costly insurance obligations under Florida law. Therefore, understanding these requirements, specifically the mandate for Florida FR44 insurance, is…

New Tampa Boating Law: How Lucy’s Law Changes the Rules for Pinellas and Hillsborough Boaters in 2025 Starting July 1, 2025, a sweeping new Florida boating law, known as “Lucy’s Law,” will permanently alter the landscape for boaters across Tampa Bay. Passed in May 2025 in response to a tragic boating death, this law introduces…

A recent decision by Florida’s Second District Court of Appeal reversed a DUI conviction after the trial court improperly excluded a key defense witness. In Karls v. State, 2D2024-0325 (Fla. 2d DCA May 7, 2025), the appellate court made clear that defendants have a constitutional right to present witnesses in their defense—even if the testimony…

5 Crucial Tips to Avoid Legal Trouble in Tampa Bay Tampa Bay boasts some of the nation’s most famous strip clubs. Whether you’re planning a visit to the iconic Mons Venus, 2001 Odyssey, or another well-known Tampa venue, a night out can be truly memorable. However, if you’re unaware of your rights—or the local laws…