5 things to know about a third offense DUI case include the penalties you face, the steps a lawyer will take to protect you from a conviction, and California’s lookback period. Familiarizing yourself with these factors can help you make smart decisions throughout the legal process.
A skilled third-offense DUI lawyer in Los Angeles will advise you on what you should know about your DUI case and represent you during negotiations with prosecutors and courtroom appearances. Let’s take a closer look at third offense DUI cases and how an attorney can help you avoid a damaging conviction.
1. A Third DUI Comes With Mandatory Minimum Penalties
One of the most important things to know about a third offense DUI case is that a conviction will come with mandatory minimum penalties. These penalties are non-negotiable unless the charges are reduced or dismissed.
If you are found guilty, you could face the following consequences:
- A minimum of 120 days in county jail
- $2,500 or more in fines
- Mandatory DUI classes
- License suspension
- Possible installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle
- Probation
2. California Has a Lookback Period for Third Offense DUI Cases
If you are researching the top 5 things to know about a third offense DUI case, you’ll likely come across information about California’s lookback period. The state uses a 10-year “lookback” period for DUI sentencing. This means prosecutors count any prior DUI convictions within the past 10 years, including DUI convictions that happened out of state.
According to this rule, your previous DUIs won’t count as “prior” if they happened 11 or 12 years ago. That said, if your last two DUIs fall anywhere within the 10-year window, a new DUI will be treated as your third. Reach out to an attorney today to learn more about the lookback period and what else you know about a third offense DUI case.
3. A Third DUI Doesn’t Have to Result in Jail Time
While the mandatory jail time minimum for a third offense DUI is 120 days, that does not mean every person has to serve that much time in a county jail. California counties have options that allow you to avoid this harsh outcome, and a strong defense can open the door to favorable alternatives.
A dedicated lawyer can provide more information on the 5 things you need to know about a third offense DUI case, work hard to protect you from a lengthy jail sentence, and help you explore these alternatives to imprisonment:
- Work-release programs
- House arrest
- Treatment programs
- Placement in a sober living program
- Community service
4. What You Do After the Arrest Matters
Your lawyer will likely tell you that one of the most important things to know about a third offense DUI case is that the steps you take after your arrest matter. After you’re charged, the prosecution will begin building your case against you. It’s at this time that you must take steps to build your defense and protect yourself from severe consequences.
It’s strongly recommended that you take the following actions after a third offense DUI arrest:
- Request a DMV hearing to avoid automatic license suspension
- Preserve any evidence you have of the incident and hand it over to your attorney
- Hire a lawyer ASAP
- Speak to your attorney about your legal rights and potential alternative sentencing options
- Don’t post about your case on social media, as your digital footprint can be used against you
- Allow your lawyer to handle communications with prosecutors and other parties
5. Having a Skilled Lawyer Can Make a Major Difference
The last and arguably most important thing to know about a third offense DUI case is that having a skilled lawyer can dramatically change the outcome of your case. A dedicated attorney will protect your rights and take the following steps to get the best results possible for you:
- Determine whether the traffic stop was legal
- Challenge improper police conduct
- Reviews video footage and witness statements
- Examines breath and blood tests
- Represent you at the DMV hearing to fight automatic license suspension
- Negotiates with prosecutors for reduced jail time or alternative sentencing
- Fight to minimize or prevent mandatory minimum jail time
- Build a defense strategy tailored to your history and unique case
Get More Information on the 5 Things to Know About a Third-Offense DUI Case
Facing a third offense DUI charges can be frightening and confusing. At a time like this, you need the help of a skilled legal representative to understand your case and protect yourself from the worst outcomes. Fortunately, at Los Angeles DUI Lawyer, we can connect you with an attorney who has the experience required to combat the charges you’re facing.
A knowledgeable attorney will answer any questions you have, explain the 5 things to know about a third offense DUI case, and fight your charges in court. Contact us today to get connected with an attorney who has experience handling cases like yours. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
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