Howard County Third Offense DUI Lawyer
Due to the fact that it is not a first offense and you have already been sentenced twice for the same mistake, third offenses are treated very seriously and are often accompanied by serious consequences such as large fines and jail time. For this reason, if you are facing your third or subsequent DUI charge it is imperative you consult with a Howard County DUI lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your case and begin building a defense.
Penalties For Third Offense DUI
A DUI still carries one year in jail and a $1000 fine. A third time DUI offense can carry a maximum three years and $3000 as a maximum.
Does The length of Time Between Charges Matter?
Yes, the fact that there has been substantial amount of time between second and third DUIs has an impact on a judge’s disposition. The length of time between offenses has an influence on the judge regarding incarceration or the length thereof. Also, it is something that can be addressed by a good attorney who knows that in Howard County, there are certain things such as treatment and continuous treatment that are necessary to prove to a judge that the person is someone worth taking a chance on. That is why it is important to hire someone with experience in Howard County very early in this matter.
Enhanced Penalties and Aggravating Factors
The State Attorney’s office can file for enhanced penalties, which brings the maximum penalties to three years or a $3000 fine. An example of an enhancement would be if minors are in the vehicle, there would be enhanced penalties on any DUI first, second, or third.
Driver’s License After a Third Offense
A person’s driver’s license is at the mercy of the Motor Vehicle Administration and the administrative judge. The person should still request the motor vehicle administrative hearing to see if there is any way to maintain a license; even if that means that the person is on ignition interlock for a period of time.
What About a Third Conviction?
Third DUI conviction would certainly come with a recommendation for Motor Vehicle Administration that the person’s license be suspended or revoked. If the attorney is able to get the person into some form of ignition interlock program, they would be able to maintain the driving ability.
However, in the end, if their license is revoked or in some fashion imposed on by the MVA, the person may be required to complete a second alcohol program through the MVA to prove that he or she is going to remain sober before getting their license back.
If a Person is Not Convicted Can They Get Their License Back?
Hopefully, the person has their license back in some fashion at that point. If the person is not convicted, they wouldn’t get points so there is no need for a second hearing.