Florida’s DUI penalties have undergone a dramatic transformation with the passage of Trenton’s Law (House Bill 687). This legislation, in effect beginning October 1, 2025, marks a significant shift in how Florida treats DUIs.

As Florida criminal defense attorneys with extensive DUI and BUI defense experience, we have firsthand knowledge of how these legislative changes will impact defendants. The stakes are now higher than ever for those facing DUI charges in Florida.

Understanding Trenton’s Law and Its Background

Trenton Stewart’s life ended tragically at age 18 when a repeat DUI offender struck his vehicle in Tampa, Florida. The driver had multiple previous DUI convictions, yet received a relatively lenient sentence under the existing laws at the time.

The Stewart family channeled their grief into action. They partnered with state legislators to draft HB 687, known as “Trenton’s Law,” aimed at strengthening penalties for repeat DUI offenders who cause fatal accidents.

What Trenton’s Law Means for Florida DUI Charges —

While Trenton’s Law directly targets repeat DUI and BUI manslaughter offenses by elevating them from second-degree to first-degree felonies, it also reflects a broader trend: Florida is adopting a tougher stance on all forms of impaired driving, including standard DUI cases that don’t involve injury or death.

If you’re facing a DUI charge—even without a serious accident—this law still matters. It shapes how prosecutors, judges, and law enforcement approach DUI cases, especially if you have prior convictions.

How It Affects First-Time DUI Offenders

If this is your first DUI, you may assume the new law doesn’t apply to you—but that’s not the case. Trenton’s Law introduces a major change for first-time offenders who refuse chemical testing.

First-Time Refusal Is Now a Crime

One of the most significant updates is that refusing to submit to a breath or urine test during your first DUI stop is now a criminal offense. It’s classified as a second-degree misdemeanor, which means:

• Up to 60 days in jail
  
• Fines of up to $500
  

Previously, refusing a test only led to administrative penalties like a license suspension. Now, it can land you in handcuffs.

Legal experts call this one of the most dramatic shifts in Florida DUI enforcement in years. A first refusal now carries criminal consequences, even without any evidence of impaired driving beyond the officer’s suspicion. This reinforces the need to take any DUI stop seriously and to speak with an attorney immediately.

Harsher Tone for First-Time Charges

Even if you comply with testing and are charged with a standard DUI, prosecutors may still show less leniency, reflecting the law’s broader crackdown. As a result, first-time offenders are more likely to face:

• Stricter probation terms
  
• More aggressive plea negotiations
  
• Increased pressure to accept harsher penalties
  

The bottom line? A first offense is no longer treated lightly, and the long-term consequences of a conviction can escalate future penalties dramatically.

Repeat DUI Offenders Face Higher Risk — Even Without Manslaughter

For drivers with prior DUI convictions, the effects of Trenton’s Law are more direct. While the law technically applies to repeat DUI manslaughter cases, its presence is influencing how prosecutors treat repeat offenders across the board.

You might face:

• Harsher sentencing recommendations
  
• Stricter conditions for probation or house arrest
  
• Longer license suspensions
  
• Mandatory ignition interlock requirements
  
• Less willingness to negotiate favorable plea deals
  

Even without a fatality, a second or third DUI now puts you at significantly greater risk due to the legal environment shaped by Trenton’s Law.

Why Trenton’s Law Raises the Stakes for All DUI Defendants

Trenton’s Law has raised the bar for accountability in impaired driving cases. Its impact goes beyond the statute itself, setting a tone in Florida courtrooms. Judges and prosecutors are now more likely to:

• Re-examine a defendant’s history more aggressively
  
• Push for stronger penalties to deter repeat behavior
  
• Use the law to justify tighter sentencing in standard DUI cases
  

This legal shift means that prior offenses, even from years ago, may now carry heavier weight in sentencing.

The Bottom Line: You Need Strong Legal Representation

If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Florida, your next steps matter—especially if you have a prior on your record. The consequences under this stricter legal framework can escalate quickly.

A DUI defense attorney can:

• Review your prior DUI history
  
• Challenge the evidence and procedures used in your arrest
  
• Negotiate strategically under the new, tougher conditions
  
• Work to minimize the impact on your license, record, and livelihood

Why It’s Crucial to Act Now

Even if your current charge didn’t involve injury or death, Florida’s tougher DUI laws mean:

• A first conviction makes future charges much more dangerous
  
• A second or third DUI could now carry nearly felony-level consequences
  
• Prosecutors may be more aggressive from the start
  

If you’re charged, don’t assume it’s a minor issue. In the post-Trenton’s Law environment, every DUI charge is treated more seriously.

Navigating a Defense Under Trenton’s Law: Challenges and Considerations

Defending DUI cases under Trenton’s Law requires a sophisticated legal approach. The elevated first-degree felony classification creates complex challenges that demand experienced legal representation.

Our defense team analyzes several key aspects of each case:

• Field Sobriety Tests – We scrutinize proper administration and accuracy
• Blood Alcohol Testing – We examine the chain of custody and testing procedures
• Accident Scene Investigation – We review evidence collection methods
• Witness Statements – We assess credibility and consistency

Procedural errors remain a critical defense strategy. Law enforcement must follow strict protocols during:

• Traffic stops
• Arrest procedures
• Evidence handling
• Miranda rights

Early legal intervention is crucial after an arrest. Quick action allows us to:

• Preserve vital evidence
• Interview witnesses while memories are fresh
• Challenge license suspensions
• Begin building a strategic defense

The stakes are higher under Trenton’s Law. A skilled Florida criminal defense attorney can identify constitutional violations, challenge evidence reliability, and protect your rights throughout the legal process.

Our experience with similar cases helps us anticipate prosecution strategies and develop compelling counter-arguments. We understand the technical and procedural complexities unique to DUI cases in Florida.

The Role of a Florida Criminal Defense Attorney in Light of New DUI Legislation

A Florida criminal defense attorney’s expertise becomes critical under Trenton’s Law’s heightened penalties. Our legal team breaks down complex legal terminology into clear, actionable information. We help clients grasp how these changes affect their specific situation and potential outcomes.

The new legislation demands that attorneys possess:

• Deep understanding of updated DUI statutes
• Experience handling felony-level cases
• Knowledge of current sentencing guidelines
• Skill in evidence evaluation and challenge
• Proficiency in negotiation tactics

Each DUI case requires a unique defense approach. We analyze every detail – from arrest procedures to blood alcohol testing methods. This thorough examination helps identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

Our attorneys develop personalized strategies considering:

• Client’s prior record
• Circumstances of arrest
• Available evidence
• Potential constitutional violations
• Witness credibility

The stakes are higher than ever with Trenton’s Law. A skilled Florida criminal defense attorney anticipates prosecution tactics and prepares robust counter-strategies. This proactive approach maximizes opportunities for charge reduction or case dismissal.

In light of these circumstances, it’s crucial to understand how to minimize the consequences of a DUI charge. Following the advice of our Florida criminal defense attorneys can significantly help in reducing the impact of such legal issues.

Why Expert Guidance from a Florida Criminal Defense Attorney Matters Now More Than Ever

Self-representation in DUI cases under Trenton’s Law creates significant risks. The enhanced penalties and complex legal framework demand a deep understanding of Florida criminal defense strategies. Inexperienced lawyers might miss crucial defense opportunities or fail to challenge evidence effectively.

A knowledgeable Florida criminal defense attorney brings essential advantages to your case:

• Strategic Case Analysis: We examine every detail of your arrest, from probable cause to testing procedures
• Evidence Evaluation: Our team identifies potential flaws in breath tests, field sobriety tests, and police procedures
• Negotiation Power: Years of experience dealing with prosecutors helps secure better plea deals
• Technical Expertise: Understanding of scientific evidence and testing protocols strengthens your defense

The stakes are higher with HB 687’s implementation. A skilled attorney protects your rights by:

• Challenging evidence collection methods
• Identifying constitutional violations
• Developing alternative sentencing options
• Building strong defense strategies based on case specifics

Our deep knowledge of Florida DUI laws enables us to anticipate prosecution tactics and prepare robust counter-strategies. Each case receives personalized attention to achieve the best possible outcome under these stricter penalties.

Contact Our Firm for a Free Consultation

Don’t let Trenton’s Law’s stricter penalties put your future at risk. Our experienced Florida criminal defense team offers a free initial consultation to discuss your DUI case.