A third DUI in California is treated very seriously. By this point, the court sees you as a repeat offender who hasn’t been deterred by past penalties, so the punishment is much tougher.
You could face longer jail time, an extended license suspension, stricter probation, and even the possibility of felony charges if certain factors apply. This isn’t something to take on by yourself. A Westminster third offense DUI lawyer can fight for the best possible outcome.
At Los Angeles DUI Lawyer, we help people facing serious charges find skilled defense attorneys. We’ve assisted thousands of clients, and our network of Westminster DUI lawyers is ready to provide the representation you need to fight a third DUI charge.
How a Lawyer Can Help After a Third DUI Arrest
After a third DUI, the penalties are severe, but the right attorney can make a difference. A Westminster third offense DUI attorney will review the details of your case, build a defense strategy, and work with prosecutors to reduce the impact. With skilled representation, you may be able to lower the penalties or, in some cases, have the charges dismissed.
An experienced third offense DUI lawyer in Westminster can:
- Review the details of your arrest
- Identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
- Challenge the legality of the traffic stop
- Question the accuracy of test results
- File motions to suppress improper evidence
- Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges
- Represent you at DMV administrative hearings
- Advocate for lighter sentencing options
- Protect your rights throughout the process
If you’ve been arrested for a third DUI, contact a Westminster third offense DUI lawyer right away. A third conviction can bring serious financial, career, and personal consequences.
Understanding a Third DUI Offense
You may face a third DUI charge if you have two prior DUI convictions within the past ten years. At this stage, the penalties become much more severe because of your criminal history.
Certain “wet reckless” convictions also count as prior offenses and can increase the severity of your penalties. However, DUI arrests that didn’t lead to a conviction are not counted as previous offenses.
A Westminster third offense DUI lawyer can review your record to determine whether you truly qualify as a third-time offender and help challenge the classification if possible. If it is a confirmed third conviction, our network of attorneys can start building a strong defense for you immediately.
DMV Consequences for a Third DUI
If you don’t request a DMV hearing within 10 days of receiving your suspension notice, your license will be automatically suspended, limiting your ability to drive.
For a third DUI, your license will be revoked for at least one year. After that, you may be eligible for a restricted license that allows driving to work, school, or other approved locations.
You will also be required to carry SR-22 insurance, which is mandatory for high-risk drivers. This coverage is costly and typically comes with much higher monthly premiums.
Criminal Penalties for a Third DUI in California
A third DUI is treated far more seriously than a first or second offense. Repeat offenders face harsher fines, longer jail time, and stricter license restrictions. If you are charged with a third DUI, speak with a skilled attorney right away. A lawyer can help you understand your options and work to minimize the impact on your life.
Possible criminal penalties for a third DUI include:
- Fines: $390 to $1,000, though additional fees can raise the total to $18,000 or more
- Jail time: Mandatory 6 months to 1 year in county jail; serious cases may result in state prison
- License revocation: Your license may be fully revoked rather than temporarily suspended, making it harder to regain driving privileges
- DUI education: A 30-month DUI program is required
- Ignition interlock device (IID): You must install and pay for an IID that tests your breath before and during driving
- Court-ordered treatment: Alcohol or drug rehab may be required, with program length based on your record and arrest circumstances
- Habitual traffic offender status: You could be labeled a habitual offender for three years, facing added penalties if caught driving without a valid license
A third DUI conviction remains on your record for 10 years. Any subsequent DUI during that period is treated as a fourth offense and is automatically charged as a felony in California.
Westminster DUI Lawyers Help With Third Offense Charges
Facing a third DUI can be stressful and intimidating. Concerns about jail time, license loss, and lasting effects on your life are common.
A skilled DUI lawyer will review your case and outline your legal options. They will guide you through every step of the process and fight to protect your rights in court.
Third Offense DUI Lawyers in Westminster Can Help
A third DUI in California carries serious consequences for your freedom, your license, and your future. Because you are already considered a repeat offender, the court is likely to impose strict penalties. The choices you make now can have a lasting impact on your case.
A third offense DUI attorney in Westminster can explain your rights and outline your options. They will work to reduce the impact of your charges, and in some cases, may help get your charges lowered or dismissed.
At Los Angeles DUI Lawyer, we have years of experience connecting Californians with skilled attorneys who handle DUI cases. Contact us today to find a lawyer who can guide you through your third-offense DUI.
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