San Rafael Multiple DUI Arrest Defense Attorney

Lawyer for Repeat Drunk Driving Offenses in San Rafael, CA

The Marin County District Attorney's Office prosecutes drunk driving charges with determination. For repeat offenders, the consequences can be severe. If you are charged with a second or subsequent DUI offense in San Rafael, you need a knowledgeable DUI defense attorney who understands the complexities of these cases and can advocate effectively on your behalf.

Since 1985, Attorney Paul Burglin has successfully represented thousands of clients charged with multiple DUI offenses in Marin County and throughout northern California. Attorney Burglin is a co-author of California Drunk Driving Law, a comprehensive two-volume legal guide that provides hundreds of decision-based drunk driving defenses and authoritative case analyses. This reference is widely consulted by other attorneys handling DUI cases. Attorney Burglin is one of only five lawyers in California certified by the National College of DUI Defense (as approved by the American Bar Association). His extensive legal knowledge and proven success rate make him a sought-after attorney by judges, prosecutors, and DMV hearing officers for DUI matters involving their friends and family.

Penalties for Multiple DUI Offenses in the Bay Area

A second or subsequent drunk driving conviction within 10 years carries significant penalties, including:

Second DUI Offense

• 96 hours to one year in Marin County jail;
• Up to a $1,000 fine plus penalty assessments;
• Suspension of your driver's license for up to two years;
• Attendance at DUI school for 18 months; and
• Three to five years of probation (usually five years and supervised).

Additional court orders may include community service, attendance at Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meetings, installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on all vehicles owned or operated, restitution payments, emergency response cost reimbursement, and being subject to searches of your person, home, office, and vehicle.

Third Offense

• Four months to one year in Marin County jail;
• Up to a $1,000 fine plus penalty assessments;
• Revocation of your driver's license for three years;
• Attendance at DUI school for 18 months;
• Designation as a habitual traffic offender; and
• Three to five years of probation (usually five years and supervised).

These penalties may be compounded by other orders, such as community service, mandatory AA or NA meetings, and the installation of an IID.

Fourth Offense

• May be charged as either a felony or misdemeanor;
• Minimum of 180 days in Marin County jail and up to three years in state prison;
• Up to $10,000 in fines and penalty assessments;
• Revocation of your driver's license for up to four years;
• Attendance at DUI school for 18 months; and
• Three to five years of probation (usually five years and supervised).

If aggravating factors such as an accident resulting in injury or death are involved, the penalties for a multiple DUI conviction are enhanced substantially.

Defending Multiple DUI Charges in San Rafael

Due to the strict penalties imposed on repeat DUI offenders, exploring every possible legal avenue is essential to avoid or reduce charges. Legal weaknesses in the prosecution's case can sometimes result in a dismissal or a reduction of charges. A thorough review of the circumstances surrounding your case will help determine the best defense strategy.

Potential legal defenses may include:

• Lack of probable cause for the traffic stop and subsequent DUI arrest;
• Rising blood alcohol concentration (BAC), meaning it was below 0.08 at the time of driving but increased later;
• Unreliable or improperly administered field sobriety tests;
• Faulty chemical test results caused by equipment malfunction, mishandling, or improper storage;
• Insufficient evidence proving actual driving; or
• Driving under emergency circumstances that could warrant a "legal necessity" defense.

Speak with a Knowledgeable San Rafael Multiple DUI Offenses Attorney

Handling cases involving repeat DUI offenses requires skill and experience. Courts often impose stricter penalties on repeat offenders, and these cases present unique legal challenges. To navigate these hurdles effectively, you need an attorney who understands the intricacies of the Marin County Superior Court and is committed to securing the best possible outcome for your case. Attorney Paul Burglin has extensive experience in defending DUI charges and works diligently to provide compassionate and effective representation.

For a free consultation with Attorney Burglin, contact our office today at 415-729-7300. We serve clients in San Rafael and throughout the Bay Area, helping those in need of strong legal representation for DUI charges.