Despite what the city’s long-running ad campaigns might imply, Las Vegas comes down hard on those who get behind the wheel while intoxicated – and the consequences of a DUI conviction can be devastating and long-lasting. Do you have a prior DUI on your criminal record? If so, you face significantly more severe punishments if convicted of another offense. Navigating the Nevada criminal justice system for a second or third time can be more challenging when more is on the line.
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At De Castroverde Criminal & Immigration, we understand the repercussions of subsequent DUI convictions and how they can change your life. Our criminal defense lawyers have extensive experience handling DUI cases for those with prior offenses. We want to help you address the legal complexities of multiple DUI charges and convictions, working towards the most favorable outcome for your situation.
Don’t wait to mount a serious defense of your subsequent DUI charges. You need to discuss your unique case with an attorney who understands how to navigate your challenging situation. Contact the Las Vegas, NV office of De Castroverde Criminal & Immigration today for a confidential legal consultation.
Understanding Las Vegas, NV DUI Laws
Drunk or drugged driving is called different things in different states. Nevada refers to drunk driving as driving under the influence or DUI. State DUI laws prohibit individuals from operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol or when an individual has a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 percent or higher within two hours of operating a motor vehicle. What does “under the influence” mean? Nevada classifies being “under the influence” as being impaired by drugs or alcohol to the point where that person cannot safely drive a motor vehicle.
In Nevada, the legal penalties for DUI convictions increase with each subsequent conviction. Escalating criminal punishments are in place to help prevent future DUI incidents. Nevada also has implied consent laws, meaning drivers suspected of driving under the influence can lose their license if they refuse to provide police with a blood, urine, or breath test. The penalties for violating implied consent laws also escalate upon subsequent offenses.
Penalties for Multiple DUI Convictions
Nevada has strict penalties for DUI offenses, which only get more severe with each subsequent conviction. The penalties include:
DUI- First Offense
- Fines between $400 and $1,000
- Two days to six months in jail, or 48 to 96 hours of community service
- 185-day license revocation
- 185-day ignition interlock device
- Online attendance of DUI school and a Victim Impact Panel
DUI – Second Offense
- Fines between $750 and $1,000
- Ten days to six months in jail
- One-year license revocation
- Up to three years of interlock ignition device installation
DUI – Third Offense
- Fines between $2,000 and $5,000
- One to six years of prison time
- Three-year license revocation
- Three-year ignition interlock device
The first and second DUI charges are misdemeanor offenses. A third DUI violation within seven years of other DUI convictions is a felony offense, meaning the penalties are significantly more severe for a conviction. If an individual is convicted of a felony DUI in Nevada, all subsequent DUI offenses will be charged as felonies. After the third conviction, additional felony DUI convictions can be classified as a category B felony and carry a punishment of two to ten years in prison and substantial fines. When another driver is significantly injured or killed in a DUI accident, the penalties for the impaired driver can be even harsher, including up to 20 years in prison.
In addition to criminal penalties, multiple DUI convictions can lead to a wide range of personal and professional challenges, as there is a social stigma attached to repeated drunk driving. An offender might face anger and resentment from family and friends and lose their much-needed support system. A criminal conviction can also make it difficult to secure housing and employment. Those with a DUI offense on their records can also expect higher insurance premiums.
Role of a Las Vegas, NV DUI Lawyer
Suppose you are arrested for DUI and have previous convictions on your record. In that case, you need to speak with a Las Vegas criminal defense attorney who has experience handling multiple DUI cases. The stakes are high, and you will benefit from having an attorney who understands your situation and can build a solid defense plan aimed at achieving the most favorable outcome, given the circumstances.
The role of a Las Vegas multiple DUI lawyer is to assess your case thoroughly, outline your legal options based on the facts, negotiate with prosecutors for lesser charges when possible, and represent you in court if a plea bargain cannot be reached with the prosecution.
Navigating the Legal System
Navigating the legal system in Las Vegas, Nevada, is easier with the guidance of an experienced defense lawyer. After your attorney reviews your situation, they will develop a defense strategy tailored to your case’s specific facts and evidence. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to drafting a defense plan. Your attorney must carefully review the circumstances of your case and evaluate whether procedural errors by law enforcement or the accuracy of BAC test results apply to your situation. Your attorney may also consider whether special considerations in your case may sway a judge.
From start to finish, your attorney can help you prepare for court appearances, understand your legal rights, and determine whether a plea deal or trial offers the best opportunity to achieve a favorable outcome. Your attorney can also be a valuable source of support and advice during this challenging time in your life.
Contact an Experienced Las Vegas, NV, Multiple DUIs Lawyer Today
Have you been arrested for DUI while already having DUI convictions on your record? Your freedom is at stake. The consequences of multiple DUI convictions can be severe. Don’t leave your fate to chance – instead, speak to a skilled Las Vegas, multiple DUIs lawyer immediately. The team at De Castroverde Criminal & Immigration wants to help you navigate the legal process toward a brighter tomorrow. Contact our Las Vegas office today for a confidential legal case evaluation.