Multiple DUI’s and the Los Angeles Court System
Getting a second DUI in Los Angeles is a greater problem as it relates to you and your driving privilege. The Los Angeles DA’s office view second DUI offenses very critically as there had been greater instance of death and injury recently to innocent people on the highway by second time DUI offenders. Specifically, the Los Angeles DA’s office will look at how many DUI’s you have had in the last 7 years. In order to be charged with a second DUI one would have had to have the second within 7 years of the first. If it is after the 7 year mark, for instance the DUI charged is in the 8th year, you are charged as if it was a first DUI. Unfortunately, the court may use the fact that you have had a DUI in your past in considering your penalty.
Second, third, and fourth DUI’s make penalty negotiations much more difficult. Your lawyer will need to be aggressive and creative in order to positively argue on your behalf. If you have not been addressing your alcohol or drug issues, and you have received a second or third DUI, it is time to face the problem, particularly since it may be your only hope of escaping significant jail time.
Understand, with multiple DUI’s you are facing potential mandatory jail time, longer alcohol treatment programs, impounds of your vehicle, and mandatory license suspensions.
