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Multiple-Offense DUI in California

Multiple-Offense DUI: What You Should Know

California multiple-offense DUI defense consultation

Facing a third or subsequent DUI in California is extremely serious. The penalties grow exponentially harsher with each offense - including possible felony charges, license revocation, and lengthy jail time. At Walia Law Firm, we build defense strategies that align your DMV hearing, sentencing exposure, and emergency response plan across the San Francisco Bay Area.

Understanding Multiple-Offense DUIs in California

Under California law, any DUI within 10 years of a prior conviction counts as a prior offense. A third or fourth DUI often results in mandatory jail or prison time and long-term license suspension. If an injury or high BAC is involved, review the DUI with injury and high BAC guides to understand additional enhancements.

Penalties for Multiple-Offense DUI

OffenseKey Penalties
Third DUI (within 10 years)120 days to 1 year in jail, $2,500–$3,000 fines, 3-year license revocation, 30-month DUI school, IID for 2 years
Fourth DUI (within 10 years)May be charged as a felony, up to 3 years in state prison, permanent license revocation, habitual traffic offender status
Multiple DUIs are "priorable," meaning penalties increase for every new conviction within a 10-year window. Compare baseline sentencing ranges on our California DUI penalties overview.

Common Defenses for Repeat DUI Offenses

Even with prior convictions, a strong defense can make a difference. Common defense strategies include:

  • Illegal traffic stop
  • Faulty breath or blood test results
  • Unverified prior conviction documentation
  • Procedural errors in earlier DUIs
  • Medical conditions affecting BAC

DMV Consequences for Multiple DUIs

Multiple DUI convictions can result in a multi-year or lifetime license revocation. However, with an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) and proper legal advocacy, some drivers can obtain a restricted license. Learn how to stay on the road with our IID compliance guide and license reinstatement playbook.

You have 10 days to request a DMV hearing - our firm will handle that process for you and prepare for the hearing presentation.

The Stakes of Multiple DUI Convictions

Beyond immediate penalties, multiple DUI convictions can have lasting consequences including:

  • Permanent criminal record affecting employment
  • Professional license suspensions or revocations
  • Increased insurance costs or policy cancellation
  • Habitual traffic offender designation
  • Immigration consequences for non-citizens

Immediate Steps After a Multiple DUI Arrest

  1. Contact an experienced DUI defense attorney immediately.
  2. Request the DMV hearing within 10 days to contest license revocation—follow the process outlined in our DMV deadlines section.
  3. Gather documentation from all prior DUI cases.
  4. Do not discuss your case with anyone besides your attorney.
  5. Consider proactive steps such as alcohol treatment programs or SCRAM monitoring to support favorable plea negotiations.
  6. Schedule a free DUI case evaluation so we can triage court and DMV deadlines.

Why Choose Walia Law Firm

With over 20 years of DUI defense experience, Attorney Ginny Walia provides aggressive and personalized defense for repeat DUI cases throughout the Bay Area.

We focus on:

  • Avoiding felony designations
  • Reducing jail exposure
  • Pursuing rehabilitation alternatives
  • Protecting driving privileges

Areas We Serve

Counties: Alameda, Santa Clara, Contra Costa, San Mateo, San Francisco
Cities: Fremont, Oakland, San Jose, Hayward, Redwood City, Walnut Creek, and surrounding areas.

Facing multiple DUI charges?

Don't face felony charges and prison time alone. Our experienced team provides aggressive defense for repeat DUI offenders across the Bay Area.

Request a Free Consultation

Multiple-Offense DUI FAQs

Any DUI conviction or wet reckless within 10 years counts as a prior offense. See how priors stack up in the multiple-offense overview.

Yes. A third or fourth DUI can result in state prison time, especially with aggravating factors like high BAC or injury allegations.

In rare cases, yes - with strong legal defense, rehabilitation, and negotiation strategies like those described under common defenses and our wet reckless guide.

A third DUI carries a 3-year revocation; a fourth DUI can result in permanent revocation. Review reinstatement pathways in our license suspension resource and IID guide.

Possibly, by installing an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) and meeting DMV requirements. Start with the options listed in the DMV consequences section.

An attorney can challenge prior convictions, negotiate plea deals, and help minimize or avoid jail time through targeted motions, DMV hearings, and mitigation highlighted in why choose us.

Multiple DUI offense defense lawyer