Vigorously Defending Clients Against Second and Third DUI Charges
If you have been convicted of DUI DWI in California within the last 10 years, a second DUI DWI conviction carries even heavier penalties. If your blood alcohol level is .08 percent or greater, you can expect a suspended license for one year. If you refuse chemical testing, your license will be revoked for two years. Driving penalties for a third DUI DWI conviction are severe: loss of your license for three years.
I am Jim Pokorny, San Diego drunk driving defense attorney. I have more than 30 years of experience defending clients against driving under the influence and similar charges. To discuss your drinking and driving criminal charges, contact me as soon you can to schedule a free phone consultation. We can talk about the options available to you, and how I can help regain limited driving privileges.
A One-Two Punch for Driving Under the Influence
Defending you against DUI DWI charges involves two separate processes: the administrative DMV hearing and the court proceeding. A second DUI offense raises the stakes considerably. You can request limited driving privileges one year after your license was suspended. You must agree to attend alcohol education courses, and may only drive to and from alcohol education and to and from work.
In July 2010, new DUI law AB 91 will go into effect. Repeat drunk driving offenders will be required to have an ignition interlock device installed on every car he or she drives. In order to operate a car with an ignition interlock device, you must blow into the breathalyzer. The car won't start if you are intoxicated. You will have to submit breath samples as you drive. In addition, you will be responsible for installation fees, unit rental and monthly monitoring fees.
Criminal Proceedings for the 2nd Offense and 3rd Offense DUI DWI
In reviewing your charges, the judge may decide to grant probation. If he or she does, you will pay a $2000 fine, serve 10 days to one year in jail and agree to alcohol assessment. In addition your license will be suspended for two years. After one year, you may qualify for limited driving privileges, if you follow the court's direction, attend mandatory alcohol education courses, and maintain a clean record with no further offenses. If this is your third DUI DWI offense, sentencing guidelines recommend 120 days to one year in jail plus a revocation of driving privileges for four years.
Drunk Driving and Negligence
Drunk driving charges can get even worse. If you are driving under the influence and kill another driver or pedestrian, you may be charged with vehicular manslaughter or murder. If you drink and drive and injure someone, you may be charged with felony DUI.
You can see why it is so important to retain an experienced criminal defense lawyer - someone who will protect your rights and look out for your best interests. For a free initial phone consultation, contact me at the Law Offices of James F. Pokorny, A.P.C. as soon as possible.
