Santa Monica DUI Defense Lawyer

Third DUI Offense in Southern California

As if being arrested for DUI the first time around wasn't bad enough, with each subsequent DUI conviction within a 10 year time period, the penalties become more severe. If you were arrested for a second or third DUI offense in Santa Monica, it would be in your best interests to contact a seasoned Santa Monica DUI defense attorney as soon as possible if you want to minimize the penalties that you are presently facing.

DUI: Third Offense Penalties in California

The state of California has an arrangement with other states where California will count prior DUI's in another state, which occurred in the past 10 years. What's more, prior "wet reckless" convictions will be counted as a prior offense in relation to DUI as well. In the absence of any "aggravating" circumstances the penalties for a third DUI offense in California are as follows:

• Three year driver's license suspension;
• One may apply for a restricted license after one year;
• Fines ranging up to $2,000;
• Anywhere from 120 days to one year in a county jail;
• From three to five years informal probation;
• Mandatory installation of an Ignition Interlock Device;
• Completion of an alcohol treatment program;
• Designation as a "habitual traffic offender" by the DMV; and
• California SR22 certificate required for a restricted license.

Aggressive DUI Defense Attorney Serving Santa Monica Residents

DUI's can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the facts of the case. If you are facing your third DUI offense, then you need a skilled and efficient attorney now more than ever. At the Law Offices of Loren M. Merlin we understand that you are going through a very difficult time. Other people may take their driving privileges for granted but you know just how difficult your life can be without having a license. For this reason, we will do everything within our power to obtain a plea bargain with the prosecution or get the charges reduced wherever possible. Our mission is to help find any mitigating circumstances that can help you reach a favorable outcome in the charges against you.

Contact a Santa Monica DUI defense lawyer from the firm to schedule a no-obligation consultation.