Have you been arrested for multiple DUIs? The more DUIs you have on your record, the higher your penalties will be. California law wants to make sure to crack down hard on habitual offenders. First-time DUI offenders often get off easy, while those who are arrested again for the same crime bear the tougher penalties. This is because the majority of DUI offenders out on the road have been charged with multiple DUIs.
California' s Lookback Period
In the state of California, there is a 10 year lookback period. This means that if you are charged with a second or subsequent DUI within 10 years of your first DUI, it will count against you as a multiple DUI. Once a DUI conviction is 10 years old, it no longer counts against you in the event of another arrest.
DUI Felonies: 4 th Offenses
If you are charged with a fourth DUI within 10 years, the case will not be charged as a misdemeanor, as is the case with first, second and third DUIs. The California laws require that individuals with a fourth DUI charge be prosecuted for a felony. DUIs can also be prosecuted as felonies if the DUI caused death or if the individual has a prior felony DUI. This means that if you are arrested for a fifth, sixth, seventh or subsequent DUI, these will also be prosecuted as felonies on your record.
The penalties for a felony DUI include:
- Sixteen months or two to four years in prison
- $390 to $1,000 in fines
- Habitual Traffic Offender status for at least three years
- Four years of license suspension
These are the basic DUI penalties and they can escalate to harsher punishments depending on the nature of the DUI and number of previous DUIs on the individual's record.
Santa Ana Multiple DUI Defense
If you have been charged with multiple DUIs, it is essential that you call a confident and successful attorney to help you. At Darwish Law, the criminal defense team is committed to effective and customized defense. Don't allow one mistake to ruin your future. You can schedule a complimentary consultation with a lawyer at the firm today if you want more information!