A third DUI in California is treated much more seriously than earlier offenses. The consequences are tougher and may include required jail time, higher fines, and a license suspension that can last up to three years. Having a knowledgeable third offense DUI lawyer in Torrance can help lower these penalties.
At Los Angeles DUI Lawyer, we match you with experienced local attorneys who know how to handle DUI cases. With decades of combined experience, our team understands what you’re going through and can guide you to a trusted Torrance DUI lawyer who will fight for you.
Torrance Lawyers for Third DUI Charges Provide Support and Guidance
A third DUI charge can be emotionally overwhelming. The fear of jail time, losing your license, and the long-term impact on your life can cause a lot of stress.
A DUI lawyer will look closely at your case, explain how California Vehicle Code 23546 applies, and help you understand your legal options. They’ll stand by you through every step and work to protect your rights in court.
What Counts as a Third DUI in California?
If you’ve been convicted of two DUIs in the past 10 years, a new DUI charge will be treated as your third offense. Only convictions count; past arrests without a conviction don’t apply.
Related convictions like “wet reckless” may also count as prior offenses under California law. The 10 years is based on the date of your current arrest and includes any qualifying convictions during that time.
Because a third DUI carries much harsher penalties, you should act fast. A Torrance third offense DUI attorney helps reduce the consequences and protects your future.
DMV Penalties for a Third DUI
If you don’t ask for a hearing with the California DMV within 10 days of your suspension notice, your license will be automatically suspended. This can seriously affect your ability to get around.
At the very least, your license will be suspended for one year, and you won’t be allowed to drive during that time. Afterward, you might qualify for a restricted license that lets you drive to places like work or school.
You’ll also have to get SR-22 insurance, which is required for high-risk drivers. This type of insurance is expensive and usually comes with much higher monthly premiums.
DMV Administrative Hearings
A DMV administrative hearing is separate from your DUI court case. It only focuses on your driver’s license and whether it should be suspended. This hearing isn’t automatic; you must request it within 10 days of getting your suspension notice if you want to fight the decision.
At the hearing, a DMV officer will look at the evidence, including the police report, your BAC results, and how the arrest happened. While it’s less formal than a courtroom trial, it still requires careful planning and a strong defense.
You have certain rights at this hearing, including:
- You can choose an in-person hearing instead of one by phone.
- A DUI lawyer can represent you throughout the process.
- You can ask the arresting officer to attend and answer questions.
Once you request a hearing, the DMV cannot suspend your license until it’s over. If you win, you may avoid a suspension entirely. An experienced Torrance third offense DUI attorney gives you the best chance of keeping your license or securing limited driving privileges. This hearing is a key step in protecting your ability to drive.
Criminal Consequences for a Third DUI in California
A third DUI comes with much tougher penalties than a first or second offense. Repeat offenders face more jail time, higher fines, and stricter license penalties. If you’re facing a third DUI, speak with a lawyer right away. A skilled attorney can help you understand your options and work to reduce the damage to your life.
Here are the possible criminal penalties for a third DUI:
- Fines: Base fines range from $390 to $1,000, but with penalty fees, the total cost can climb to $18,000 or more.
- Jail time: You face a mandatory sentence of 6 months to 1 year in county jail. In serious cases, you could be sent to state prison.
- License revocation: Instead of a temporary suspension, your license may be fully revoked, making it harder to get driving privileges back later.
- DUI school: A 30-month DUI education program is required.
- Ignition interlock device (IID): You’ll need to install an IID in your vehicle that checks your breath for alcohol before and during driving. You must pay for this device yourself.
- Court-ordered treatment: The court may require you to attend alcohol or drug rehab, with the program’s length and structure depending on your record and the circumstances of your arrest.
- Habitual traffic offender status: You may be labeled a habitual offender for three years, adding more penalties if you’re caught driving without a valid license.
A third DUI conviction stays on your record for 10 years. If you’re arrested again during that time, it will count as a fourth DUI, which is automatically charged as a felony in California.
Torrance DUI Lawyers for Third Offenses Can Help You Move Forward
A third DUI in California brings serious consequences. An experienced Torrance third offense DUI lawyer can help reduce the impact or even get the charges dismissed in some cases.
At Los Angeles DUI Lawyer, we quickly connect you with skilled defense attorneys after your arrest. Call today to tell us what happened and learn what to do next.
