Orange County Multiple DUI Defense Lawyer

DUI convictions stay on your DMV driving record for 10 years. You will face steeper penalties if arrested for a second, third, or subsequent DUI within 10 years of a previous conviction. These consequences can be severe and profoundly impact your life. However, these consequences are not always inevitable if you have an experienced and proven DUI defense attorney on your side. 

At the Law Offices of Virginia L. Landry, Inc., you will have the advantage of representation from a distinguished professional with the expertise you need to fight DUI charges of all kinds. Ms. Landry has not only achieved the status of Board Certified in DUI Defense Law from the National College for DUI Defense but has been named its Dean/President, highlighting her outstanding knowledge, ability, and leadership as a DUI defender. 

Request a free case evaluation with our Orange County multiple DUI defense attorney. You can reach us via our contact page or at (949) 694-8804. 

Repeat DUI Offenses in California

While second and third DUI offenses are still prosecuted as misdemeanors, their penalties are severe.  

A second California DUI conviction carries the following penalties: 

• Jail Time: The minimum jail time for a second DUI conviction is 96 hours, which can extend up to one year.
• Fines: Fines range from $390 to $1,000, but the total can reach $4,000 with additional penalty assessments.
• Probation: This can range from three to five years. 
• License Suspension: A second DUI conviction can result in a two-year license suspension. Depending on the length of time between the prior offense, however,  you may be eligible for a restricted license.
• Ignition Interlock Device: Installation of this device in your vehicle is typically required for one year. 
• DUI School: You must complete an 18 or 30-month DUI school program.

A third DUI conviction carries even more severe penalties: 

• Jail Time: If convicted of a third DUI, you face a minimum of 120 days to a maximum of one year in jail.
• Probation: This ranges from three to five years.
• Fines: Fines range from $390 to $1,000, plus penalty assessments that can range up to $4,000.
• License Revocation: Your license could be revoked for three years, but you may be eligible for a restricted license if no one has been injured in an accident.
• Ignition Interlock Device: This is generally required for two years. 
• DUI School: An offender must complete an 18 or 30-month DUI school program.

Additional penalties can include required attendance at Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous, participation in a Victim Impact Panel, such as those sponsored by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), or a requirement to pay restitution to alleged victims. 

Collateral Consequences of Repeat DUI Convictions

Beyond the immediate legal penalties, repeat DUI convictions can have far-reaching effects on your life, future, and finances. 

Many employers perform background checks. A DUI conviction can make it difficult to secure employment, especially in fields like transportation, law enforcement, or any job requiring a clean driving record. Furthermore, your auto insurance rates will likely increase significantly after a DUI conviction.

A DUI conviction can also damage your personal and professional reputation. Finally, the cumulative costs of fines, court fees, DUI school, and increased insurance premiums can create substantial financial distress.