
Irvine Multiple DUI Attorney
Experienced Defense for Repeat DUI Offenders in Irvine, CA
Facing a second, third, or fourth DUI charge in California is not just a repeat of your first arrest—it’s significantly more serious. With each subsequent DUI conviction, the penalties grow harsher, and your freedom, finances, and future are increasingly at risk. If you’re facing repeat DUI charges in Orange County, an experienced Irvine multiple DUI lawyer from Braden & Tucci can provide the strategic defense you need to fight for the best possible outcome.
Our team understands how California’s DUI laws operate, especially when dealing with multiple offenses. We leverage years of courtroom experience, deep legal knowledge, and a client-focused approach to help reduce or dismiss charges when possible.
By calling (949) 996-0170, you can schedule a free consultation to discuss your case in depth.
Second DUI
A second DUI offense within 10 years of your first conviction is still classified as a misdemeanor under California law—but the penalties are much more severe.
- Potential penalties for a second DUI conviction in California may include:
- 96 hours to 1 year in jail
- $390 to $1,000 in fines (plus thousands in penalty assessments)
- 2-year driver’s license suspension
- 18 to 30 months of DUI education
- Mandatory ignition interlock device (IID) installation
- 3 to 5 years of probation
In addition to these penalties, the DMV may initiate separate administrative actions, such as suspending your driving privileges. If your second DUI involved an accident, high blood alcohol concentration (BAC), or refusal to submit to a chemical test, enhanced penalties may apply.
An Irvine multiple DUI attorney from Braden & Tucci can help you challenge both the criminal charges and the DMV suspension through aggressive legal defense and representation at DMV hearings.
Third DUI
A third DUI conviction within a 10-year period escalates the legal consequences even further. At this point, courts tend to treat offenders as chronic risks to public safety.
Possible penalties for a third DUI include:
- 120 days to 1 year in county jail
- $2,500 to $3,000 in fines and fees
- 3-year driver’s license revocation
- 30 months of DUI school
- Mandatory IID installation
- Designation as a habitual traffic offender (HTO)
You may also face longer jail time or harsher penalties if the offense involved a crash, a high BAC, a minor in the vehicle, or refusal to comply with testing.
At Braden & Tucci, we investigate every aspect of your arrest—from the legality of the traffic stop to the accuracy of the breath or blood test. Our goal is to uncover flaws in the prosecution’s case that may allow us to reduce the charges, negotiate alternatives to incarceration, or fight for dismissal.
Fourth or Subsequent DUI
A fourth DUI offense within 10 years is considered a felony in California. A felony DUI conviction can change your life permanently, limiting employment, housing, and civil rights, such as your right to vote or own a firearm.
Felony DUI penalties may include:
- 16 months to 3 years in state prison
- Up to $5,000 in fines and penalty assessments
- 4-year driver’s license revocation
- Habitual traffic offender status
- Long-term DUI school (up to 30 months)
- Mandatory IID for several years
A fourth or subsequent DUI is extremely serious and demands an equally aggressive legal response. Our firm has extensive experience defending clients against felony DUI charges. We thoroughly review your criminal history, police reports, field sobriety test records, and more to craft a compelling defense strategy tailored to your case.
We may be able to argue for a reduction in charges, alternative sentencing like drug or alcohol rehabilitation, or even challenge the constitutionality of prior convictions if they were unlawfully obtained.
Multiple DUI FAQs
How long does a DUI stay on your record in California?
A DUI remains on your criminal record permanently, but for sentencing purposes, California uses a 10-year "lookback" period to determine whether a DUI is a second, third, or fourth offense.
Can I avoid jail time for a second or third DUI?
Possibly. An experienced Irvine multiple DUI lawyer may be able to negotiate alternative sentencing such as house arrest, community service, alcohol treatment programs, or SCRAM monitoring, especially if you demonstrate a willingness to seek rehabilitation.
Is a fourth DUI always a felony?
Yes, a fourth DUI within 10 years is charged as a felony in most cases. However, your attorney may be able to challenge one or more prior convictions or negotiate with the prosecution for a lesser charge, depending on the facts.
Do I need a lawyer if this is my second DUI?
Absolutely. The consequences of a second DUI are too severe to face without legal representation. An attorney can help protect your driving privileges, reduce penalties, and fight for your rights in court and at the DMV.
What if I refused a breath or blood test?
Refusing a chemical test can result in enhanced penalties, including longer license suspensions and mandatory jail time. However, there may be ways to challenge whether the refusal was valid under California law.

We help you move forward
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“The outcome far exceeded the expectations that were initially set.”
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“Mr. Tucci is an aggressive bulldog attorney that you want representing you!”
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“Thank you again, Mr. Tucci, through your efforts you have altered the course of my life. Truly the greatest to have ever done it.”
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What sets us apart:
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Zealous, Individualized Representation for Your Case
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Proven Successes in Trial, in Court & with the DMV
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Certified in Alcohol Screening & Field Sobriety Testing
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Southern California’s Most Respected DUI Attorney
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Former President of the CA DUI Lawyers Association
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Southern California’s Most Aggressive and Successful DUI Attorney

Contact Our Irvine Multiple DUI Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one is facing a second, third, or fourth DUI charge in Orange County, don’t face the court system alone. Repeat DUI offenses require a skilled legal strategy and a proactive defense. At Braden & Tucci, our goal is to help you move forward with your life by protecting your rights and minimizing the long-term consequences of your arrest. We offer free, confidential consultations to review your case, discuss your legal options, and explain how we can help.
Contact our office today to speak with a trusted Irvine multiple DUI attorney who is ready to stand by your side.

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We Know What You're Facing. We Know How To Win.