You have legal options if the police arrest you for driving under the influence (DUI) and you have a past DUI conviction on your record. In this situation, you can turn to a Santa Ana second-offense DUI lawyer to focus on solutions like having your charges reduced or even dismissed.
A Santa Ana DUI lawyer can explore all possible options to resolve your charges successfully. Attorneys understand that the court hands down harsher penalties for a second DUI, so they take these charges very seriously. You can strengthen your defense by contacting a lawyer immediately after an arrest.
Our team can help you find a lawyer who can address all your legal needs. We have decades of experience with situations involving DUI arrests.
Why Hire a Second-Offense DUI Lawyer in Santa Ana, CA?
You can immediately improve your chances of avoiding the harsh penalties of a DUI conviction by hiring a criminal defense lawyer after your arrest. An attorney can assist you by:
Supporting You During Legal Questioning
You do not have to answer questions about your second DUI arrest without your lawyer. In fact, the Constitution guarantees you the right to legal representation. Exercising this right means you’ll have someone on your side when dealing with the prosecution and police.
Keep in mind that the police and prosecution will use everything you say against you. They want to secure a conviction as quickly as possible and are not on your side. Fortunately, a lawyer can provide the personalized support you need.
Building Your Defense
Your attorney can focus on collecting evidence and constructing a personalized defense on your behalf after an arrest. For example, your attorney may argue that:
- The police stopped you without reasonable cause
- The arresting officer did not follow procedures for the blood alcohol content (BAC) test
- The lab mishandled your BAC test
It’s essential that you contact a lawyer as quickly as possible after an arrest to give your attorney a better chance of gathering all relevant evidence.
Handling Your DMV Hearing
In addition to the criminal charges you may face after a DUI arrest, you may face challenges associated with the Department of Motor Vehicles. The DMV can automatically suspend your license after an arrest if you do not request an administrative hearing after your arrest.
You have very limited time to request this hearing. Your second-offense DUI attorney in Santa Ana can help you request your hearing and explain what to expect while protecting your driving privileges.
How Do Lawyers Resolve Second Offense DUI Charges?
Attorneys can use several methods to handle your legal situation after a second DUI arrest. Depending on your situation, your lawyer may focus on:
Getting Your Charges Reduced
In some cases, the prosecution will offer a plea bargain after a DUI arrest, allowing you to reduce the penalties you face by admitting fault for a less serious charge. However, plea bargains are less common for drivers facing a second DUI.
Having Your Charges Dismissed
Your attorney may motion the court to dismiss your second offense DUI charges in some cases. The court may dismiss your charges if a lawyer can show that the prosecution lacks enough evidence to prove that a crime occurred.
Fighting for You in Court
You can rely on your lawyer to build a solid defense for you after a DUI arrest and represent you aggressively in court. In many cases, hiring a lawyer can improve your chances of securing a verdict in your favor.
Do You Need a Lawyer for a Second DUI Arrest?
Many individuals benefit from hiring a lawyer after a second arrest for driving under the influence. The court system often treats subsequent DUI charges more seriously, so having a legal professional on your side may help you protect your future.
Your attorney will take the potential penalties for a second DUI conviction seriously. These convictions can result in:
- Incarceration in a county jail
- Steep fines
- Restrictions on your driving privileges
California considers DUIs “priorable.” These offenses stay on your record for 10 years, and each subsequent conviction will come with harsher penalties.
Is a Second DUI a Felony?
Typically, California treats a second offense DUI as a misdemeanor–level offense. However, you may face felony charges if the police accuse you of causing an accident that results in injuries or death while impaired.
An attorney can explain the specific charges you face so you know what to expect throughout the legal process.
Will You Need an IID for a Second DUI Conviction?
California requires the majority of drivers convicted of any DUI to install ignition interlock devices (IIDs) on their vehicles. These devices function as personal breathalyzers and will test your BAC each time you try to operate your vehicle.
You have to cover the costs of installing and maintaining the IID, raising the financial costs associated with a second DUI conviction.
Learn More About Handling a Second-Offense DUI in Santa Ana
You do not have to face an arrest for drunk driving alone. A professional Santa Ana second-offense DUI lawyer can support you, build your defense, and guide you through the legal process.
Our team can help you get in touch with an attorney who will put you first and provide the dedicated assistance you need, so reach out now.
