Richmond Multiple DUI Lawyer

Richmond Multiple DUI Attorney

Driving under the influence of an impairing substance (DUI) in Texas is a serious offense, and it can become even more serious with previous DUI convictions. If you are facing DUI charges, you need a Richmond multiple DUI lawyer who can protect your rights and your freedom.

A dedicated DUI lawyer is essential from the very beginning, with their ability to evaluate the evidence and negotiate with prosecutors to work towards reducing the charges. When you hire a multiple DUI lawyer like Joseph Ruiz, your legal strategy can be tailored to your specific situation.

About the Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC

Joseph Ruiz is a DUI and criminal defense lawyer in Houston, Texas. After ten years and over 325 jury trials at a large law firm, Mr. Ruiz founded the Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC, to provide excellence in legal representation against DUI and other criminal charges. Mr. Ruiz is fluent in Spanish, so he is positioned to represent more people in the community.

Texas Multiple DUI Penalties

Texas is ranked as the 3^rd worst state for drunk driving, with 340 DUI arrests made per 100,000 licensed drivers in the state. Given this, a conviction for multiple DUI offenses can come with severe penalties. At the same time, the specific sentence is determined by a judge based on the circumstances of the case, and minimum and maximum ranges are set by the law.

• First DUI offense. A first DUI is generally classified as a misdemeanor, but any subsequent charges beyond that can quickly escalate.
• Second DUI offense. A second DUI offense is classified as a Class A misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to a year in jail and fines reaching up to $4,000. Your driver’s license can also be suspended for up to two years.
• Third DUI offense. A third DUI offense is considered a third-degree felony and carries penalties of two to ten years in prison, fines up to $10,000, and a license suspension of up to two years.
• Subsequent DUIs. For subsequent DUIs, penalties increase, especially if there are aggravating factors such as an extremely high blood alcohol content (BAC), multiple prior convictions, or an injury or death. Repeat offenses can also trigger a mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device (IID), higher insurance premiums, and required participation in alcohol education or rehabilitation programs.

Common Defenses for Multiple DUI Charges

Even when facing multiple DUI charges, there are several potential legal strategies to challenge the prosecution’s case. Effective defenses often focus on questioning the procedures, evidence, or timing of the arrest:

• Challenging the initial stop. If the arresting officer lacked the requisite reasonable suspicion to initiate the traffic stop, any evidence gathered may be deemed inadmissible in court.
• Contesting scientific evidence. The accuracy of breathalyzer results can be challenged, such as focusing on whether the device was properly calibrated or maintained, or whether there were operational errors that could have led to an inaccurate BAC reading.
• Questioning improper field sobriety tests. Field sobriety tests are inherently subjective. Results can be influenced by the driver’s medical conditions, challenging weather, or irregular road surfaces.
• The rising BAC defense. This defense argues that your BAC was below the legal limit at the time of driving but rose above the limit later due to the metabolic process of alcohol absorption before the chemical test was administered.
• Procedural violations. Your case may be dismissed if law enforcement failed to adhere to proper procedure, such as neglecting to inform you of your rights or mishandling crucial evidence.

Why You Need to Hire a Richmond Multiple DUI Lawyer

Navigating multiple DUI charges without experienced legal counsel can be both overwhelming and highly risky, especially because DUI laws in Texas are exceptionally intricate and the penalties for repeat offenses are severe.

FAQs About Richmond, TX Multiple DUI Laws

What Are the Penalties for Multiple DUIs in Richmond?

In Richmond, Texas, multiple DUI convictions mean increasingly severe penalties. A second offense is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by 30 days to one year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000. For a third or subsequent offense, it becomes a felony, which means you could face two to ten years in a state prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Repeat offenses can also result in license suspensions or the requirement to use an IID.

What Are Some Defenses That Can Be Used in My Case?

Some defenses for DUI charges may challenge the evidence and procedure. A lawyer can challenge the initial stop and argue the officer lacked reasonable suspicion, contest the accuracy of the breathalyzer or the field sobriety tests, or potentially argue that your BAC was below the legal limit while driving but rose later. You should discuss your case with a knowledgeable multiple DUI lawyer to understand what defenses could be used in your unique case.

If My License Was Suspended, Am I Eligible for an Occupational Driver’s License?

Yes, you may still be eligible for an occupational driver’s license (ODL) after multiple DUIs in Texas, but there is a mandatory waiting period. After the waiting period, you must be able to demonstrate that the ODL is going to be used for essential work. You may also be required to install an IID.

Can I Be Required to Install an Ignition Interlock Device?

Yes, you may be required to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) after multiple DUIs in Texas. After multiple DUI offenses, an IID may be mandatory on condition of bond, probation, and/or to obtain an ODL during your license suspension. The length of time that you may be required to utilize an IID usually depends on the number of DUIs you have been convicted of in the past.

Hire a Multiple DUI Lawyer in Richmond, TX

The Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC, offers over ten years of experience and a record of handling hundreds of jury trials. Our team can work tirelessly for the most positive outcome possible for your case, whether that is a dismissal or a reduction in charges. If you are dealing with DUI allegations, contact us right away to schedule a free consultation.