Los angeles ada defense attorneys

Los Angeles 2nd DUI Attorney

If you have been arrested for a second DUI offense in Los Angeles California, you need the help of an experienced Los Angeles DUI attorney to protect your rights and minimize the punishment you face. California has some of the toughest DUI offense penalties for DWI-related crimes in the country, including fines, license suspension, jail time, mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device, and more. A second-time DUI can lead to even harsher California DUI penalties, making it critical to have a skilled criminal defense attorney on your side.

The California Vehicle Code classifies a DUI as operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. If you are arrested for drunk driving, you have only ten days to request a hearing with the DMV to fight your license suspension. Without legal representation, you risk losing your driver’s privileges and facing other serious consequences.

At The Law Office of Stein & Markus, our Los Angeles criminal defense firm, we have extensive experience defending individuals against all types of alcohol-related offenses, including second-time DUIs. We understand the complexities of California DUI law and can help you navigate the legal system to achieve the greatest possible outcome. We will work tirelessly to protect your rights, challenge any evidence against you, and negotiate on your behalf to minimize the punishment you face.

California 2nd DUI Offense

When a driver is stopped and found guilty of driving under the influence (DUI) in California and has already received a DUI conviction within the previous ten years, it is considered a second DUI offense. In California, a second DUI violation is a severe crime that carries substantially heavier punishments than a first offense.

DUI is defined by the California Vehicle Code as operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or greater. Fines, license suspension, the requirement to install an ignition interlock device, probation, community service, and obligatory prison time are all possible consequences for a second DUI offense. The offender can also be forced to participate in a 30-month-long DUI program that has been approved by the court.

License Suspension for 2nd DUI in CA

A second-time DUI offender in California faces a license suspension for a length of time that typically ranges between 1 and 2 years. After 90 days of the suspension term, the motorist may be qualified for a restricted license if they have successfully completed a DUI program. The motorist is able to go by car to work, school, and other important appointments with a limited license. The motorist must submit an SR-22 form to the DMV and provide documentation of enrollment in a DUI program in order to receive a restricted license, however.

It’s vital to remember that if the motorist refuses to submit to a chemical test or has a history of DUI convictions, the license suspension time may last longer. A knowledgeable DUI lawyer may also assist you in navigating the legal system to lessen the effects of a license suspension and assist you in getting your license back as quickly as possible.

The Period of Time Between Getting DUI Offenses
Car Breathalyzer

In California, you may be subject to harsher punishments if you acquire two DUIs in a calendar year than if you just receive one.

The following punishments apply to a second DUI violation within a 10-year window:

Prison time of at least 96 hours and a maximum of one year.
A range of $390 to $1,000 in fees and fines.
18 months of required DUI education.
A two-year license suspension.
A year of ignition interlock device (IID) installation on your car.

But, if you are found guilty of two DUIs within a year, you may also be subject to the following punishments:

A minimum of 10 days in prison is required.
A two-year suspension of the license.
An extended DUI education course.
Completion of a clinical assessment and potential therapy.
The potential for being classified as a repeat traffic offender.

The severity of the DUI crimes and if there were any aggravating elements like property damage, injuries, or fatalities will all play a role in the precise fines and repercussions that apply to your situation.

Prison Term for a Second DUI in California

A second DUI violation within ten years of a prior DUI conviction in California carries a mandatory prison sentence. In California, a second DUI violation carries a 96-hour mandatory minimum punishment (4 days). The court may, however, impose a sentence of up to one year in prison on the defendant based on the particulars of the case.

Moreover, there are other aggravating circumstances that may lead to lengthier prison terms. The judge may impose a lengthier jail sentence, for instance, if the driver’s BAC was extremely high or if a minor was present in the vehicle at the time of the violation. The term may be greatly lengthened if the driver was responsible for an incident that resulted in death or harm.

Steps to Getting Your License Back After A 2nd California DUI Offense

If your license was suspended due to a second DUI conviction in California, you might be able to get it back after completing certain requirements. Here are the steps you need to take:

Serve your suspension period. The length of the license suspension period for a second DUI offense in California is generally between 1 and 2 years. You must serve the entire suspension period before you can apply for a reinstatement of your driver’s license.
Complete a DUI program. You must enroll in and complete a DUI program approved by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The length of the program varies depending on the circumstances of your case, but it can last up to 30 months. The program may include classes and counseling sessions to help you understand the dangers of driving under the influence and avoid future offenses.
File a SR-22 form. You must file an SR-22 form with the DMV. This form is a certificate of financial responsibility that proves you have car insurance. Your insurance provider will file this form on your behalf.
Pay any fees. You may be required to pay a reinstatement fee and other fees to the DMV to get your license back.
Schedule a hearing with the DMV. After completing the above requirements, you must schedule a hearing with the DMV to discuss the reinstatement of your license. The DMV will review your case and determine if you are eligible to get your license back.

The process of getting your license back after a second DUI conviction in California can be complicated, so it is recommended to seek the assistance of an experienced DUI defense attorney to help you work your way through the process.

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How to Get DUI Charges Reduced or Dropped

Getting DUI charges reduced or dropped can be difficult, but it is possible under certain circumstances. Here are some strategies that a DUI defense attorney may use to try to reduce or dismiss DUI charges:

Arguing against the necessity of the traffic stop. Any evidence acquired during the stop might be inadmissible in court if the police officer did not have a good justification for stopping your car, which might result in a charge being reduced or dropped entirely.
Putting the validity of the field sobriety tests under scrutiny. Field sobriety tests, including the one-leg stand, walk-and-turn, and horizontal gaze nystagmus, are subjective and liable to inaccuracy. The findings of these tests might not be acceptable in court if they are proven to be unreliable by a skilled lawyer.
Arguing against the findings of the chemical testing. Blood tests and breathalyzers are frequently used to calculate blood alcohol content (BAC). The administration or analysis of these tests, however, may contain flaws, making them not always reliable. A knowledgeable lawyer might be able to contest the legality of these tests and have them invalidated.
Arranging a plea bargain. A prosecutor could agree in some circumstances to drop DUI charges completely or lower them to a lesser misdemeanor like careless driving in return for a guilty plea or other requirements.
Proposing alternative punishment. Your lawyer might be able to convince the judge to impose an alternative punishment, like probation, community service, or participation in alcohol treatment programs, if the evidence against you is compelling.

It’s vital to keep in mind that every DUI case is unique, and the tactics utilized to get the charges against you lowered or dropped will depend on the particulars of your case. An adept DUI defense lawyer can assess your situation and provide recommendations for the smartest line of action to assist you in getting a great result.

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Offenses After A 2nd DUI in California

In California, if you are convicted of a second DUI offense within ten years, the penalties are much harsher than those for a first-time offense. However, if you commit additional offenses after a 2nd DUI, the penalties become even more severe. Here are some of the potential consequences of subsequent offenses:

Third DUI. A third DUI offense in California within ten years of the prior offense is punishable by a minimum jail sentence of 120 days and a maximum sentence of one year. The driver may also face fines, license suspension, mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device, probation, and mandatory attendance of a DUI program.
Fourth DUI. In California, a fourth DUI violation within ten years after the previous crime is a felony punishable by up to three years in state prison. The motorist may also be subject to fines, license suspension, the requirement to install an ignition interlock device, and other sanctions.
DUI felony. Even for a first offense, a DUI crime that results in injury or death may be punished as a felony. A felony DUI conviction carries a range of punishments, including up to three years in state jail, fines, license suspension, and the requirement to install an ignition interlock device.

It’s important to remember that subsequent DUI offenses can have severe consequences, including jail time, hefty fines, and a criminal record that can impact your future.

What Happens if You Are Charged with a Felony DUI in CA

In California, being charged with a felony DUI is a serious violation that has substantial repercussions. What to anticipate if you are accused of a felony DUI in California is as follows:

Increased punishments. Charges for felony DUI are only brought in situations when a DUI accident results in someone being hurt or killed. As a result, felony DUI convictions carry substantially harsher penalties than misdemeanor DUIs. A felony DUI conviction carries additional consequences, including fines and up to 3 years in state jail.
Suspended license. Your driver’s license will be suspended for a long time in California if you are found guilty of a felony DUI. Depending on the specifics of your case, the suspension period’s length varies.
Criminal history. A felony DUI conviction will remain on your criminal record permanently, which may affect your future ability to rent an apartment, acquire a job, or pursue other career prospects.
Ignition Interlock Device. In California, you may be obliged to have an IID installed in your car if you are found guilty of a felony DUI. Before your automobile starts, this gadget requires you to pass a breathalyzer test. Its purpose is to stop drunk driving.
A rise in insurance premiums. Increased auto insurance costs or possibly coverage refusal are possible consequences of a felony DUI conviction.

In summary, being accused of a felony DUI is a severe infraction that necessitates prompt legal counsel.

How A Criminal Record Can Affect Your Future

Your DUI-related charges can lead to punishments that may appear on your criminal record. A criminal history can have a significant impact on your future in several ways:

Employment. A criminal record can make it more difficult to find employment, as many employers conduct background checks as part of their hiring process. Depending on the nature of the offense, certain jobs may be off-limits to those with a criminal record.
Education. A criminal record can also impact your ability to pursue higher education, as some schools may deny admission based on criminal history. In addition, you may be ineligible for certain financial aid programs.
Housing. A criminal record can have a significant impact on your ability to find housing. Many landlords conduct background checks on potential tenants, and a criminal record can make it more difficult to secure a lease or rental agreement. Landlords may be concerned about renting to someone with a criminal record due to concerns about potential criminal activity or disruptive behavior. In addition, some landlords may be required by law to deny housing to individuals with certain criminal convictions, such as drug offenses or violent crimes.
Professional Licenses. A criminal record can have a significant impact on your ability to obtain professional licenses. Certain professions require professional licenses, such as doctors, nurses, and lawyers, and a criminal record can make it more difficult or even impossible to obtain the necessary license.
Immigration. A criminal record can also affect your immigration status and may even result in deportation. In addition, even minor criminal offenses or misdemeanors can result in immigration consequences, such as denial of a visa or green card or additional scrutiny during the immigration process.

Overall, a criminal record can limit your opportunities and negatively impact your future. It’s important to understand your rights and options for expungement or other legal remedies that may be available to mitigate the impact of your criminal history.

Buying and Renting Property in California with a DUI on Criminal Record

Having a DUI on your criminal record can make it more difficult to buy or rent property in California, as landlords and lenders often conduct background checks on prospective tenants or borrowers. Here are some factors to consider:

Rental applications. When applying for a rental property, landlords often run background checks to assess a tenant’s creditworthiness and criminal history. A DUI conviction may negatively impact your chances of being approved for a rental property, especially if it is a recent conviction or if you have multiple DUI convictions on your record.
Home buying. When applying for a mortgage to purchase a home, lenders also run background checks to assess the borrower’s creditworthiness and criminal history. A DUI conviction may negatively impact your chances of being approved for a mortgage and may result in higher interest rates or stricter borrowing requirements.
Housing discrimination. It’s important to note that discrimination based on criminal history is illegal in California. Landlords and lenders are prohibited from denying housing or loans based solely on a person’s criminal history. However, some landlords and lenders may still use criminal history as a factor in their decision-making process.
Expungement. If you have a DUI conviction on your record, you may be able to have it expunged (removed) from your criminal record. This may make it easier to secure housing or loans in the future, as it will no longer appear on background checks.

Having a DUI on your criminal record may make it more difficult to buy or rent property in California, but it is not necessarily an insurmountable obstacle. It’s important to be honest with potential landlords or lenders about your criminal history and to work with a criminal defense attorney to explore options for expungement or other legal remedies.

Obtaining A Professional or Business License in California with a DUI on Criminal Record
Business License

Having a DUI on your criminal record can potentially impact your ability to obtain a professional or business license in California. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Disclosure requirements. When applying for a professional or business license, you will typically be required to disclose any past criminal convictions, including DUIs.
Licensing agency regulations. Each licensing agency has its own regulations regarding criminal convictions, including DUIs. Some agencies may deny a license outright if an applicant has a recent DUI conviction, while others may consider factors such as the nature of the offense and the applicant’s rehabilitation efforts.
Rehabilitation efforts. If you have a DUI conviction on your record, it may be helpful to demonstrate your rehabilitation efforts, such as the completion of an alcohol treatment program or participation in a support group.
Legal remedies. Depending on the circumstances of your DUI conviction, you may be able to have it expunged (removed) from your criminal record. This may improve your chances of obtaining a professional or business license, as the conviction will no longer appear on background checks.

Overall, having a DUI on your criminal record may make it more challenging, but not impossible, to get a professional or commercial license in California. Working with a criminal defense lawyer to investigate alternatives for expungement or other legal solutions is crucial. It’s also vital to be open and truthful with licensing organizations regarding your prior criminal history.

How a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help With 2nd or 3rd Offense Dui Charges

A criminal defense lawyer can be a valuable asset in defending against 2nd or 3rd Offense DUI charges. Here are some ways a criminal defense lawyer can help:

Understanding of the law. A criminal defense attorney is well-versed in the rules and legislation pertaining to DUI accusations in your region. They can assist you in becoming aware of your legal choices and rights as well as any possible repercussions.
Investigating a case. A criminal defense lawyer can thoroughly investigate your case to identify any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Creating a solid defense may entail looking over police records, witness testimonies, and other pieces of information.
Negotiating a plea. A criminal defense attorney and the prosecution can negotiate a plea deal that might lead to fewer charges or harsher punishments. This may be crucial in situations when there is substantial evidence against you.Repr
esentation in court. A criminal defense attorney can speak out for you in court and represent you. They can provide evidence in support of your defense, advocate for lower charges or punishments, and cross-examine witnesses to refute the prosecution’s case.
Advocacy for alternative sentencing. If you are found guilty of a second or third offense DUI charge, a criminal defense attorney may be able to negotiate a lesser sentence or suggest an alternative punishment like community service or probation.

To summarize, a criminal defense attorney may offer crucial advice and support throughout the whole DUI process, from the time of the arrest to the conclusion of the trial. They can assist you in deeply comprehending your legal alternatives and working on getting the ideal result for your case.

FAQs

Q: What Is the Average Age for a DUI?

A: Studies have shown that DUI arrests tend to be most common among adults between the ages of 21 and 35 years old. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), young adults aged 21-24 years old account for the highest proportion of drivers involved in alcohol-related crashes, followed by drivers aged 25-34. However, it’s important to note that individuals of any age can be arrested for DUI if they are caught driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Q: Can I Travel to Other Countries if I Have a DUI On My Record?

A: Some countries may deny entry to individuals with a criminal record, including a DUI conviction, while others may allow entry but with certain restrictions or conditions. For example, Canada is known to be strict with regard to DUI convictions, and individuals with a DUI conviction may be denied entry or be required to obtain special permission to enter the country. Similarly, Japan and many countries in the Middle East may also restrict entry to individuals with a criminal record, including a DUI.

Q: Can You Get a DUI in a Self-driving Car?

A: Yes, you can still get a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in a self-driving car. While self-driving cars may be able to operate themselves, current laws and regulations require a person to be behind the wheel and able to take control of the vehicle if necessary. This means that if you are in a self-driving car and you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you can still be charged with a DUI if you are in control of the vehicle.

Q: Can You Get Charged with a DUI as a Passenger?

A: No, it is not possible to be charged with a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) as a passenger in a vehicle. DUI charges typically apply to individuals who are operating the vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Passengers, on the other hand, are not responsible for the operation of the vehicle and are not subject to DUI charges.

Dependable Defense Lawyers For DUI Cases

If you’re facing a second DUI or DWI charge in Los Angeles, don’t face it alone. Contact The Law Office of Stein & Markus to schedule a consultation with our experienced DUI defense attorneys. We’ll work tirelessly to protect your rights, fight for your freedom, and minimize the consequences of your charges. Don’t wait – contact us today or visit our website to learn more about how we can help you.

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