Tampa Attorney DUI Q & A

"Q. I was stopped for DUI last week and was given a court hearing. Since this is my first DUI arrest, I do not know what sentence I may receive. Several people have told me that the prosecutor's office usually makes a specific recommendation based on the fact that this is a first offense. I have received solicitations from a few attorneys as well. Is there a way I can learn what the prosecutor's office will demand before I hire an attorney? What would be the advantage of hiring an attorney?

A. If you are charged with DUI, you should find out the name of the assistant state attorney who will be handling your case. You can call the State Attorney's Office, which should be able to tell you the name of the attorney. You can call the prosecutor and ask him or her if there is a standard plea agreement since this is your first offense. Many people hire private attorneys for several reasons: First, if your arrest was not proper, an attorney may be able to get your case dismissed. Second, an attorney may be able to get a better plea arrangement. Without knowing all of the facts of your situation, it is difficult to advise you. "