Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious criminal act in California. In many cases, the penalties for DUIs get worse with each subsequent conviction. This leads some drivers to wonder if they can avoid jail time after a second DUI in Los Angeles.
Generally, a second DUI conviction results in a minimum of at least a few days in jail. In some cases, drivers will end up spending much longer behind bars. They can also face fines and restrictions on their driver’s licenses. Find out more by checking out this article.
Jail Time for a Second DUI Charge in California
As we mentioned, California takes DUI charges very seriously. A conviction could lead to jail time, even for a first DUI. In fact, you may end up facing a maximum of six months in jail for a first-time, basic DUI conviction. With the penalties increasing for additional convictions, a second conviction can lead to:
- A minimum of 96 hours in jail
- A maximum of one year in jail
Note that this only holds true in some counties. There are counties that have a higher minimum amount of jail time for a second DUI offense. Additionally, because of aggravating factors, not all DUI charges lead to the same amount of jail time.
You may face a longer sentence if you are accused of hurting or killing someone in a DUI accident, for example. In this situation, you may even face felony charges here in Los Angeles. We are here to help you handle any kind of DUI charge. Learn more by calling (310) 862-0199.
Other Penalties for a Second DUI in Los Angeles
Jail time is only one penalty for a DUI conviction in Los Angeles. There are a number of other penalties associated with this charge. You can face fines of thousands of dollars after a DUI conviction. Additionally, you may face restrictions on your driver’s license.
The state of California recently adopted an ignition interlock device (IID) program. This program requires many drivers convicted of a DUI to install an IID on their vehicle. IIDs are like personal breathalyzers. They assess your blood alcohol content (BAC) each time you want to start your vehicle.
Using an IID could prevent you from losing your license after a DUI arrest. You may need to use this device for a year after a second DUI conviction. Some drivers refuse to install an IID. In this case, you can face the suspension of your driver’s license.
Handle DUI Charges to Avoid Jail Time in Los Angeles
As you can see, a second DUI conviction will lead to jail time in Los Angeles. However, DUI charges do not automatically lead to a conviction in California. You can take steps to avoid a conviction by working with a DUI lawyer in Los Angeles. A lawyer will help you focus on avoiding a conviction by:
- Investigating your charges
- Working to dispute the evidence against you
- Weakening the prosecution’s case
In some cases, a lawyer could block enough evidence to get your charges dismissed. This would allow you to avoid a jail sentence. A lawyer can also help you secure a plea bargain after a DUI arrest. These bargains are deals offered by the prosecution.
Some plea bargains allow you to reduce the penalties you’d face for a conviction. You may end up serving community service instead of spending time in jail, for example. However, a plea bargain still shows up on your record as a conviction.
Consider Defenses to DUI Charges in Los Angeles
A Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer can also help you handle DUI charges in court. Defending you could allow you to secure a verdict in your favor. A lawyer can argue that:
- You were not driving under the influence
- You were stopped without due cause
- Your blood alcohol content (BAC) test was mis-administered
Start working on your options for a defense right now. A lawyer can help you handle questioning by prosecutors and police officers. Your lawyer can also help with your bail hearing, if applicable. Take control immediately if you are charged with a second DUI in California.
Ask a Lawyer About Avoiding Jail Time After a Second DUI
Can you avoid jail time after a second DUI in California? You might not avoid jail time if you are convicted of a second DUI. However, a DUI lawyer in Los Angeles can help you avoid a conviction for this criminal charge. Find out how with a free consultation by calling us at (310) 862-0199. You can also fill out our online contact form right now.
