Prior DUI Convictions Increase Penalties
We are experienced DUI defense lawyers that have handled over 5,000 DUI cases, protecting the interests of our clients charged with DUI offenses in Vista, and all of San Diego. Listed in San Diego Magazine’s “Top Lawyers” and with the highest rating* in legal ability and ethical standards (Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review rating), Christoph Law Offices for over 40 years has provided the highest level of personal and professional DUI and criminal defense representation.
Call for a free consultation: 760-941-5720.
Experienced Representation for Multiple DUIs
If you have been charged with your second, third or fourth DUI, or if someone was injured this time, the penalties you face may be significantly more severe. Subsequent DUI offenses lead to harsher consequences, often escalating to felony charges that threaten your freedom and driving privileges.
Specific penalties for subsequent DUIs may include:
- Second DUI: Mandatory minimum incarceration of 96 hours up to a year, significant fines, license suspension for two years, mandatory completion of an 18-month or 30-month DUI program and installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) for a year.
- Third DUI: Mandatory minimum incarceration of 120 days up to one year, significant fines, license suspension for three years, mandatory completion of a 30-month DUI program and installation of an IID for two years.
- Felony Fourth DUI (within 10 years): Mandatory minimum jail time of 180 days up to three years (state prison), significant fines, license suspension for four years, mandatory completion of a 30-month DUI program and installation of an IID for three years.
Prior DUIs must have occurred within the last 10 years and be supported by a valid conviction record. Sometimes, out-of-state prior convictions may not be adequately similar or proven. It is essential to have an experienced attorney who can manage your criminal case, address DMV procedures and help get the best resolution possible.
Penalties and Consequences for Driver’s Licenses
Repeated DUI offenses lead to increasingly severe penalties that specifically impact your driving privileges. In addition to license suspension, each DUI conviction results in points being added to your driving record.
Accumulating too many points within a specific timeframe can lead to further penalties, including longer suspension periods or even permanent revocation of your driver’s license. Preserving your license requires taking proactive steps, such as obtaining legal representation as soon as possible.
We Take an Individualized Approach to Every DUI Case
Every DUI case is different. We give you and your case the individual attention it requires. We review every case for all possible defenses and legal technicalities to ensure the best possible result, whether that is dismissal, negotiated settlement, lesser charges or minimizing consequences in addition to trying to preserve your driver’s license.
There are a number of areas and issues which need to be explored and investigated in each case. We look carefully at probable cause for the contact, search, seizure, testing and calibration, individual health issues, career impact and many other areas depending on the facts of your case and your personal circumstances.
Many cases are resolved through negotiations resulting in lesser charges or lesser penalties. We will give you an honest appraisal of your case, keep you informed as we navigate the justice system and present the factors of your individual case in the best possible way to get lesser charges or penalties.
Representing Clients Throughout North County
Our office is strategically located in Vista, just across the street from the courthouse, where we have served the accused in Vista and surrounding areas for 40-plus years. We are proud to assist those throughout North San Diego County, including:
- Oceanside
- Carlsbad
- Escondido
- Encinitas
- San Marcos
- Vista
No matter where you are in North County, we are ready to provide you with premier support and legal representation.
You Need an Experienced DUI Defense Lawyer on Your Side
If you have been charged with a DUI with priors, call us today at 760-941-5720 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation with our experienced attorneys.
*AV®, AV Preeminent®, Martindale-Hubbell Distinguished and Martindale-Hubbell Notable are certification marks used under license in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell certification procedures, standards and policies. Martindale-Hubbell® is the facilitator of a peer review rating process. Ratings reflect the anonymous opinions of members of the bar and the judiciary. Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review Ratings™ fall into two categories — legal ability and general ethical standards.
