Van Nuys Third Offense DUI Lawyer

A third DUI can derail your life. You’re not starting with a clean slate, which means judges and prosecutors will see a pattern, and that can lead to harsher sentences. If you’ve been arrested for your third DUI, a Van Nuys DUI lawyer can take on your case and defend your rights.

For over 19 years, Los Angeles DUI Lawyer has been connecting Californians with experienced DUI attorneys. If you’ve been charged with a third DUI, a Van Nuys third offense DUI lawyer can help build a robust defense.

Why Hire a Van Nuys Third Offense DUI Attorney?

If you’re facing your third DUI charge, a Van Nuys third offense DUI attorney can:

• Analyze the evidence: A lawyer can examine the police report, breath or blood test results, and body camera footage for inconsistencies or violations of your rights.
• Negotiate for reduced penalties: A lawyer can work to minimize your jail time, fines, and license suspension through plea bargaining or alternative sentencing.
• Represent you in court: If your case goes to trial, an attorney can develop a strong defense and argue on your behalf.

Without an attorney by your side, you’ll risk compromising your case and receiving the maximum possible penalties.

What Happens if You Have Three DUIs in California?

Under California law, a third DUI conviction within 10 years comes with severe consequences, including:

• Jail time: You’ll be sentenced to 120 days to 1 year in county jail.
• License suspension: Your driver’s license will be suspended for up to 3 years.
• Fines: You’ll be fined up to $1,000, not including court fees and penalty assessments.
• Probation: You’ll likely be subject to 3 to 5 years of probation with strict conditions.
• DUI school: You’ll be ordered to attend a 30-month program at your own expense.
• Ignition interlock device (IID): You’ll be required to install an IID in your vehicle for up to 2 years.

The court may also order alcohol treatment programs, community service, or participation in a Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) victim impact panel. A third offense DUI lawyer in Van Nuys can work to minimize the ramifications of your arrest.

When Is a Third DUI Charged as a Felony in California?

While most third DUIs are still charged as misdemeanors, there are circumstances where they can escalate to a felony, such as:

• Injury or death: If your DUI caused an accident that resulted in serious injuries or fatalities, it can be upgraded to a felony.
• Prior felony DUI conviction: If you have any prior felony DUI convictions on your record, your third offense can automatically be charged as a felony.
• Multiple priors with aggravating factors: Extremely high blood alcohol concentration (BAC), reckless driving, or the endangerment of minors can lead prosecutors to charge the crime as a felony.

Felony DUIs carry prison time, higher fines, and longer license suspensions than misdemeanor charges.

How Can You Fight a DUI Charge?

Even with two prior convictions, you still have legal options. Your attorney may use strategies such as:

• Challenging the BAC results: Breathalyzers and blood tests can be inaccurate due to improper calibration, contamination, or mishandling of samples.
• Disputing the traffic stop: If the officer lacked probable cause to stop you, all evidence obtained afterward could be suppressed.
• Highlighting procedural errors: Mistakes in arrest procedures or rights advisements can weaken the prosecution’s case.
• Presenting alternative explanations: Medical conditions, diet, or even certain medications can cause elevated BAC readings or mimic signs of intoxication.

A third offense DUI attorney in Van Nuys can fight for reduced charges, lighter penalties, or even a dismissal of your case.

Can You Get Your License Back After Three DUIs in California?

Yes, it’s possible to get your license back after three DUIs in California. However, it’s not guaranteed, and it will come with conditions, including:

• Completion of DUI school: You must finish the 30-month program.
• Installation of an IID: You will only be allowed to drive as long as you blow a clean breath sample.
• Payment of all fees: You must pay all of the fees you’ve incurred, including license reinstatement fees to the DMV.
• Proof of insurance: SR-22 insurance is mandatory for at least three years.

If you meet certain requirements, you may qualify for a restricted license before your suspension ends. A Van Nuys DUI attorney can help you get back on the road as soon as possible.

What Constitutes a DUI in California?

California Vehicle Code §23152 makes it illegal to drive:

• With a BAC of 0.08% or higher for most adult drivers
• With a BAC of 0.04% or higher for commercial drivers
• With a BAC of 0.01% or higher if you’re under 21
• While impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination, regardless of BAC

The law applies not just to cars but also to motorcycles and certain other motorized vehicles.

What to Do if You’re Arrested for a Third DUI

If you’re facing charges for a third DUI in Van Nuys, it’s crucial to:

1. Stay calm and cooperative: Don’t resist arrest, argue with officers, or make incriminating statements.
2. Exercise your right to remain silent: You are not required to answer questions about your drinking or activities.
3. Request an attorney immediately: The sooner your lawyer is involved, the stronger your defense will be.
4. Request a DMV hearing: You have just 10 days to request a hearing to challenge your license suspension in California.
5. Document everything: Write down details about the stop, arrest, and testing procedures while they’re fresh in your mind.

Connect with a Third Offense DUI Lawyer in Van Nuys

A third DUI can result in jail time, steep fines, and years without a license. But you don’t have to fight your charges alone. Los Angeles DUI Lawyer can connect you with a Van Nuys third offense DUI attorney who can protect your rights, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and fight for the best possible outcome.

Call today to take the first step toward safeguarding your future.