What Are the Consequences of Multiple DUI Convictions in California?

A single DUI conviction in California is serious, but multiple DUI convictions bring escalating penalties that can severely impact your freedom, finances, and future opportunities. California law enforces a progressive penalty system, meaning that with each DUI conviction, the consequences become significantly more severe.

If you are facing a second, third, or fourth DUI charge, you need aggressive legal representation to fight for the best possible outcome. At Perlman & Cohen, our experienced Los Angeles DUI defense attorneys understand the complexities of California DUI law and will work tirelessly to protect your rights.

How Prior DUI Convictions Affect Your Case

California follows a ten-year lookback period, meaning that any DUI conviction within the past ten years counts as a prior offense and increases the penalties for your current charge. This includes all DUI-related offenses, such as:

• Standard DUIs – Driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher under Vehicle Code §23152.
• “Wet Reckless” Convictions – A plea bargain that still counts as a prior DUI if you are convicted again.
• Out-of-State DUI Convictions – If your previous conviction occurred outside of California, it may still be counted if it aligns with California DUI laws.
• Boating Under the Influence (BUI) Convictions – In some cases, a prior BUI conviction can increase DUI penalties.

Because the penalties increase with each conviction, it is crucial to have an experienced DUI defense attorney who can examine your case and fight to minimize the damage.

Penalties for Multiple DUI Convictions in California

Second DUI Conviction (Within 10 Years)

A second DUI in California is still classified as a misdemeanor, but the penalties are much harsher than a first-time offense:

• Jail Time: A minimum of 96 hours to 1 year in county jail.
• Fines & Court Fees: Base fine of $390 to $1,000, but after court assessments, the total cost can exceed $3,000 to $5,000.
• Driver’s License Suspension: A two-year suspension, with the possibility of obtaining a restricted license after one year.
• DUI School: 18-30 months of mandatory DUI education programs.
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID): Required for one year if you wish to continue driving.
• Probation: Three to five years of informal probation, requiring compliance with strict court-ordered conditions.

Third DUI Conviction (Within 10 Years)

A third DUI is still a misdemeanor, but the penalties become even more severe:

• Jail Time: A minimum of 120 days to 1 year in county jail.
• Fines & Court Fees: $390 to $1,000, but total costs can exceed $5,000.
• Driver’s License Suspension: Suspension is a 3-10 year revocation of your license with reinstatement with a breathalyzer immediately for two years.
• DUI School: 18 or 30 months of alcohol education classes.
• IID Requirement: Two years of mandatory IID installation.
• Probation: Three to five years, with stricter conditions and requirements.

Fourth DUI Conviction (Within 10 Years) – Felony DUI

A fourth DUI conviction is automatically charged as a felony, leading to life-changing consequences:

• State Prison Sentence: 16 months to 3 years in state prison.
• Fines & Court Fees: Up to $5,000, with significant court assessments.
• Permanent Driver’s License Revocation: No automatic reinstatement.
• DUI School: 30 months of court-mandated alcohol education.
• Felony Record: A permanent felony conviction, which affects employment, housing, and firearm rights.
• Probation or Parole: Formal probation or parole supervision after release.

Additionally, if a DUI results in injury or death, prosecutors may enhance the charges to vehicular manslaughter or second-degree murder, leading to decades in prison under California Penal Code §191.5.

Collateral Consequences of Multiple DUI Convictions

Beyond the criminal penalties, multiple DUI convictions can impact every aspect of your life:

• Severe Car Insurance Consequences – A multiple DUI conviction results in astronomically high insurance premiums or policy cancellations.
• Employment Issues – Many employers will refuse to hire or terminate individuals with multiple DUI offenses.
• Professional Licenses – Doctors, nurses, and attorneys risk losing their professional licenses due to repeat DUIs.
• Immigration Consequences – Non-citizens may face deportation, inadmissibility, or visa denials.
• Child Custody and Family Law Issues – Courts may restrict custody rights if a parent has multiple DUI convictions, citing concerns about reckless behavior.

At Perlman & Cohen, we don’t just focus on criminal defense—we help clients mitigate the real-life consequences of DUI convictions.

How Perlman & Cohen Can Help You Fight Multiple DUI Charges

If you are facing repeat DUI charges, you need an experienced defense team to fight for you. At Perlman & Cohen, we use proven legal strategies to fight DUI cases, including:

1. Challenging the Legality of the Traffic Stop

Law enforcement must have probable cause to stop you. If the stop was unlawful, we can file a motion to suppress evidence, which may lead to a dismissal of charges.

2. Examining Breathalyzer and Blood Test Accuracy

Breathalyzers and blood tests are not always accurate. We investigate whether the testing equipment was calibrated correctly, if there were errors in test administration, or if medical conditions, diet, or rising BAC levels could have impacted the results.

3. Fighting Prior DUI Convictions

We examine whether prior DUI convictions were obtained legally. If any previous conviction had due process violations, we may be able to challenge the validity of prior offenses.

4. Negotiating Plea Bargains to Reduce Charges

For clients facing felony DUI charges, we work to reduce the charge to a misdemeanor. In some cases, we can negotiate a “wet reckless” plea, which carries fewer consequences.

5. Exploring Alternative Sentencing Options

Instead of jail, we may be able to secure house arrest, alcohol rehabilitation programs, or community service. We also explore Veterans Court and DUI Diversion Programs for eligible clients.

Why Choose Perlman & Cohen for Your DUI Defense?

At Perlman & Cohen, we have a proven track record of helping clients facing multiple DUI charges. We understand the devastating impact of these convictions and fight aggressively to protect your rights. Our legal team is committed to building strong defense strategies, whether that means challenging evidence, negotiating reduced charges, or seeking alternative sentencing.

Contact Perlman & Cohen for a Free Case Consultation

If you are facing a second, third, or fourth DUI charge, you cannot afford to leave your future to chance. You need a dedicated legal team that will fight for you. Contact Perlman & Cohen today to schedule a free consultation and take control of your defense now.