A third DUI charge in California is very serious. At this point, the court views you as a repeat offender, which can mean stricter penalties and fewer chances for leniency. You may face time in jail, a long license suspension, and significant fines.
Emotionally and financially, the stress can be overwhelming. It’s important to get help so you understand what lies ahead and what steps to take next. A Santa Monica third offense DUI lawyer who can protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.
For nearly 20 years, Los Angeles DUI Lawyer has helped Californians facing DUI charges get the legal support they need. Call today, and we will connect you with a Santa Monica DUI lawyer who can assist you with your case.
What Happens When You Get a Third DUI in California?
When you get a third DUI in California within 10 years of your previous offenses, the consequences are severe and can affect many areas of your life. Courts treat repeat offenses harshly, so the process often moves fast and with little leniency. You may face:
- Up to 1 year in county jail
- Fines and fees totaling several thousand dollars
- A 30-month DUI education program
- Three to five years of probation
- Installation of an ignition interlock device
- Loss of your driver’s license for up to 3 years
Certain aggravating factors worsen third DUI penalties, such as high blood alcohol, having a child in the car, causing an accident, refusing tests, or excessive speeding. A third DUI can become a felony if someone is injured or if you have a prior felony DUI.
What are Possible Defenses for a Third DUI in Santa Monica?
Even with prior DUI convictions, you still have options. With so much on the line, it’s important to get help from a Santa Monica third offense DUI attorney who knows how to build a strong defense. Some strategies they may consider include:
- Challenging the legality of the traffic stop: If the officer didn’t have a valid reason to pull you over, any evidence gathered after the stop could be thrown out in court.
- Challenging the legality of the arrest: Even after a stop, the officer must observe signs of impairment. Without enough evidence, the arrest may not hold up under legal scrutiny.
- Noting the lack of a Miranda warning: If you hadn’t been read your Miranda rights before questioning, statements you made during or after arrest might be inadmissible in court.
- Questioning an illegal DUI checkpoint: Police must follow strict rules at DUI checkpoints. If the checkpoint was not legally set up or operated, any evidence obtained there may be dismissed.
- Challenging the accuracy of breath or blood test results: Breathalyzers and blood tests can malfunction or be improperly used. Calibration errors, faulty equipment, or contamination can lead to unreliable BAC readings.
- Making a case for rising BAC: Your blood alcohol level may have been legal while driving, but rose afterward. This challenges the timing and accuracy of the test results.
Sometimes, medical conditions or improper testing equipment can also explain a high BAC reading. For a third DUI, the court will look closely at the facts, so working with a capable and experienced attorney matters.
What Happens to Your Driver’s License After a Third DUI?
The California DMV takes a rigid stance on third DUIs. You’ll be labeled a habitual offender and face a three-year license revocation. This starts with an automatic suspension 30 days after your arrest unless you request a DMV hearing within 10 days.
The DMV hearing focuses on whether your arrest followed legal procedures and whether your blood alcohol level was above the legal limit. If you lose your hearing or don’t request one, you’ll lose your license.
You may qualify for restricted driving privileges, but conditions apply, including the use of an ignition interlock device. A third offense DUI lawyer in Santa Monica can help you understand what to expect from a third DUI in California and represent you at hearings.
What are the Long-Term Consequences of a Third DUI?
A third DUI conviction in California can follow you for years. It stays on your criminal record and driving history, affecting job opportunities, insurance rates, and even housing opportunities. If you get a fourth DUI within 10 years, it could be charged as a felony DUI in California.
You’ll also face long-term probation, ongoing court supervision, and financial strain from fines and higher insurance premiums. Some professional licenses may be at risk. Rebuilding your life after a third DUI is tough, but many people bounce back with the right assistance.
Get Help from a Santa Monica Third Offense DUI Attorney
If you’re facing a third DUI conviction within 10 years, take action immediately. Request a DMV hearing within 10 days to challenge the license suspension. Write down everything you remember about the arrest and gather documents related to your past DUI cases.
Then, consult with a Santa Monica third offense DUI attorney who can help you understand your options, advise you on your next steps, and work toward the best possible outcome. When your future is at stake, you don’t want to take on the system alone.
Los Angeles DUI Lawyer has helped thousands of clients connect with attorneys who can help with their DUI cases. Call today to get the legal assistance you need.
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