Facing Multiple DUI Convictions in Los Angeles

February 6, 2017

Legal Representation Essential if Facing Multiple DUI Convictions

If you or a loved one is charged with a DUI and you already have a DUI conviction on your record (or multiple DUI convictions), then it is critical that you contact an experienced Los Angeles DUI defense attorney to represent you in court and fight for your rights.

The DUI laws in California are unforgiving. Even a first-time DUI offense can result in a defendant serving time in jail, being hit with large fines, incurring a license suspension, and more. As you can see, the penalties associated with a DUI conviction are quite serious and even more so if you have prior DUI convictions on your record. In fact, under California law, with each subsequent DUI conviction, the penalties increase in severity. Below is a sample of the potential penalties associated with multiple DUI convictions.

Second DUI Conviction

If you have one DUI conviction on your record and are convicted of a second DUI, you are looking at serving between 90 days and one year in jail. You will also incur a monetary fine between $390 and $1,000. Your license will likely be suspended for up to two years and you could be ordered to attend a drug and alcohol treatment program.

Third DUI Conviction

If you have two DUI convictions on your record and are convicted of a third DUI, you are probably going to serve between 120 days and one year in jail, incur a fine between $390 and $1,000, have your license suspended for up to three years, and go through a mandatory treatment program.

Fourth DUI Conviction

If you are looking at a potential fourth DUI conviction, the penalties include serving between 180 days and up to 16 months in jail. You will get hit with the monetary fine of up to $1,000, and your license will be suspended for up to four years.

Ten Year Rule

An important factor in assessing your DUI case is whether your DUI would be considered a “subsequent offense.” To be considered a subsequent offense, your DUI must have occurred within 10 years of the previous conviction. This means that if you were convicted of a DUI when you were 21 years old and are now facing a second DUI charge at age 35, you can argue that the DUI should not be viewed as a second offense. To make a compelling case, you should retain the services of an experienced Los Angeles DUI lawyer.

If You Harm Someone While Allegedly Driving Intoxicated, the Penalties can be Severe

An example of just how serious the California legal system takes DUIs is the Central California man who was sentenced to 60 years in prison for an accident that resulted in the deaths of four people. The Central California man was intoxicated when the collision occurred, according to kcra.com. He also had three prior DUI convictions on his record. The combination of his prior record and the tragic ramifications of the collision resulted in the judge leveling a life-altering sentence that means the man will likely be in prison for the rest of his life.

Contact an Experienced Los Angeles DUI Defense Attorney Today

The Law Offices of Peter Berlin is dedicated to helping those who have been charged with almost any kind of criminal activity, including multiple DUIs. With over 20 years of experience  we know what it takes to provide a strong defense against any charge. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation: (818) 986-0968