While being convicted for a 2nd DUI is carries more severe penalties than first time offenders, if you are convicted for a 3rd DUI, the penalties are even more severe. At this stage you may even face the addition of a felony conviction on your permanent record. Continuing to drink and drive can seriously affect many parts of your life, especially your freedom to come and go as you choose.
The Effects of Subsequent DUIs
While the laws will differ in each state, on one item there is no difference: each time you are convicted of a DUI, the penalties become harsher.
In many states a conviction for a 3rd DUI makes it a felony offense. Some of the effects that may accompany this DUI conviction may include but are not limited to the following:
• A felony conviction will great impair your ability to obtain and maintain employment.
• You lose some of your constitutional rights that are guaranteed to those citizens who do have felony convictions on their records.
• In some states you may be treated as a habitual offender.
• Jail time may be followed by probation or house arrest.
• You will probably be required to install an alcohol monitoring device on your car.
• In many states you will lose your license for at least eighteen months and may not qualify for a hardship permit.
• Potential loss of employment for those who must drive in their line of work.
• Increase in insurance premiums following each conviction.
Employment Hardships Related to Repeated DUIs
One thing many people don’t consider when they choose to drink and drive is the effects on their employment. This is especially true for those who drive for a living because hardship permits only cover those who must drive to and from work, not those who must drive in their line of work. The longer you are without your license the greater the possibility your employer will terminate your employment. If you are unable to perform your regular duties (driving), your employer will be forced to replace you.
Contacting a Lawyer
When you are faced with having to go to court for a 3rd DUI arrest, you will need to contact a lawyer with successful experience working with clients who have been arrested for several DUIs. While it becomes more difficult to fight the charges, if you have a good lawyer you may be able to reduce your jail time and maybe avoid a felony conviction—at least obtain a reduction in the class into which it places you.
