Pasadena Multiple DUI Lawyer

Pasadena Multiple DUI Attorney

Texas takes a strict stance against impaired driving. A DUI conviction, especially subsequent convictions, carries serious legal consequences, including large fees, time in jail, and loss of your license. If you’re facing DUI charges, you need a skilled Pasadena multiple DUI lawyer.

What Is a DUI?

In Texas, DUI means Driving Under the Influence and describes when a person is operating a vehicle in a public space while intoxicated by alcohol or drugs. Intoxication is defined as having a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or higher or having lost the normal use of mental or physical abilities due to alcohol and/or drugs.

You can be arrested for a DUI regardless of whether your BAC was at .08 or higher if the arresting officer determines you’ve been drinking or using drugs.

Texas also has implied consent laws. By obtaining a driver’s license, you automatically consent to a breath or blood test upon DUI arrest, and refusing this test can result in an automatic driver’s license suspension.

Texas Penalties for Multiple DUI Offenses

A conviction for multiple DUI offenses can lead to severe penalties. While a judge determines the specific sentence based on the case specifics, the law sets minimum and maximum ranges.

• First DUI Offense. A first offense is usually a misdemeanor, but subsequent charges can quickly escalate.
• Second DUI Offense. The second offense is a Class A misdemeanor and comes with up to a year in jail, fines up to $4,000, and a driver’s license suspension for up to two years.
• Third DUI Offense. A person’s third DUI offense is a third-degree felony and comes with up to two to ten years in prison, a fine of up to $10,000, and a license suspension for up to two years.
• Subsequent and aggravating factors. Penalties increase further for subsequent DUIs, especially when aggravating factors are present, like an extremely high BAC, multiple prior convictions, or the situation results in an injury or death.

Additional Consequences of a DUI Beyond Criminal Penalties

A second or subsequent DUI conviction in Texas carries consequences far beyond immediate criminal penalties. These long-term repercussions can drastically affect many areas of your life, including:

• Career limitations. A felony DUI on your record can significantly restrict job opportunities, especially in professions that require a clean driving history or background check.
• Housing difficulty. Landlords routinely perform criminal background checks, and a DUI conviction may complicate your efforts to secure stable housing.
• Reputational damage. Multiple DUIs can severely harm your standing within your community and in your social circle.
• Severe financial burden. Expect high costs beyond fines, including escalating insurance premiums, substantial legal fees, and mandated expenses for programs like alcohol rehabilitation.
• Ignition interlock devices (IIDs). You may be required to install an IID in your vehicle, and since IIDs cut repeat DUI offenses by up to 70%, they are likely to be a popular choice in the courts.

Given these criminal and other penalties, you need to hire a multiple DUI lawyer to help mitigate the consequences on your life.

Why You Need to Hire a Pasadena Multiple DUI Lawyer

Facing multiple DUI charges in Texas can be overwhelming and highly risky. Texas DUI laws are exceptionally intricate, and the penalties for repeat offenses are severe.

You need a dedicated DUI lawyer from the very beginning. An experienced attorney like Joseph Ruiz can immediately evaluate the evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and tailor a unique legal strategy specifically designed for your case.

About the Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC

Joseph Ruiz is a criminal defense lawyer in Houston, Texas. He worked at a large law firm for 10 years, where he handled more than 325 jury trials. Mr. Ruiz founded the Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC, to provide trusted, personalized DUI and criminal defense representation to the community. Mr. Ruiz is also fluent in Spanish.

FAQs About Pasadena, TX Multiple DUI Laws

What Are the Penalties for Multiple DUIs in Pasadena?

In Pasadena, Texas, the penalties for multiple DUI convictions become harsher with each offense. A second DUI is charged as a Class A misdemeanor, carrying 30 days to one year in jail and fines of up to $4,000. A third or subsequent DUI is treated as a felony, which can lead to two to ten years in state prison with fines reaching $10,000. Those with repeat convictions may also have their license suspended or be required to install an IID.

Can a Lawyer Help Expunge or Seal Multiple DUI Convictions in Texas?

A lawyer may be able to help you in this situation, but it is unlikely that multiple DUI convictions can be expunged or sealed in Texas. True expunction is not typically available for DUI convictions in the state, and sealing is only an option for first-time misdemeanor DUI convictions that were non-violent and the BAC was below a certain threshold.

Can Prior DUI Convictions from Another State Count Against Me in Texas?

Yes, prior DUI convictions from another state can count against you in Texas. Texas law allows for enhanced penalties for a subsequent DUI if the out-of-state offense had elements that were similar to Texas DUI laws. Texas is a part of the Driver License Compact and the National Driver Register (NDR), which means the state shares conviction information with other states that participate.

What Defenses Are Available for Someone Facing Multiple DUIs in Texas?

Defenses for multiple DUIs in Texas often focus on challenging the prosecution’s evidence. Some of the most common strategies include disputing the legality of the initial traffic stop and questioning the accuracy of the chemical tests. The defense may also challenge the results of the field sobriety tests. In other situations, a lawyer may seek a plea negotiation for reduced penalties, probation, or alternative sentencing opportunities.

Hire a Multiple DUI Lawyer in Pasadena, TX

Are you facing another DUI charge in Pasadena? At the Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC, we can provide the professional resources and criminal defense experience necessary to build a defense completely tailored to your case. Reach out to our office today for a free consultation to discuss your specific situation and let us start building your defense.