This article should provide the reader with the knowledge and understanding of what to expect if arrested and charged with a first-time DUI offense in the State of California.

Facing a third-time DUI in California can result in serious ramifications, including a three-year license suspension, thousands of dollars in fines, and up to a year in jail. In California, a third DUI is a misdemeanor, but there are certain factors that may lead to felony charges. Most likely you will be charged with a misdemeanor so as long your driving didn’t hurt/kill another driver, passenger, citizen, etc. 

Dealing with a third-time DUI can be extremely stressful and costly. Depending upon the factors surrounding the case, a DUI charge in California may result in a jail sentence of 120 days to a year and fines between $390 and $1,000. While categorized as a misdemeanor (as long as no major injuries occurred), due to being a third-time DUI offense, the court is less likely to be lenient.

Is there a legal defense for failing a breathalyzer? Unlike what we see on daytime television talk shows when a person fails a polygraph while indicating that there was something wrong with the machine and/or the polygrapher; one can actually fail a breathalyzer due to a medical condition. 

Getting convicted for a DUI is never a good thing, but subsequent offenses can damage your reputation and cause financial losses that you likely want to avoid. If you’re wondering how a 2nd DUI is different from a 1st or 3rd, you have come to the right place. 

Getting your DUI records sealed means that the public cannot access all the information regarding your arrest or conviction. After it’s been sealed, your criminal record becomes confidential and is unavailable for future employers for background checks or public records.