Penalties for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol (DUI) become more severe when the defendant has a previous DUI record. Second or subsequent DUI convictions can lead to longer terms of incarceration, higher fines, longer driver's license suspension periods and more. Furthermore, prosecutors will jump at the chance to label you as a repeat DUI offender who does not deserve to be given any lenience. While it is wise to consult with a Honolulu DUI attorney for any drunk driving offense, having strong legal representation becomes even more crucial when you are accused of a repeat DUI offense.

I am a Honolulu criminal defense lawyer who has more than 20 years of experience, so I am fully prepared to help you challenge your criminal DUI charges. I can help you devise a criminal defense plan that best meets your particular needs and that can help reduce your chances of conviction. My firm, the Law Office of Steve Cedillos, has provided some important information so that you can be better informed about the penalties you could be facing for a second, third or subsequent DUI offense.

Below are the penalties drivers can face upon second or subsequent DUI offense that occurs within a five-year period. According to Hawaii's laws, these sentences must be given without the possibility of probation or suspension of sentence. Second DUI Conviction

• At least 240 hours of community service, or 5 to 30 days of imprisonment
• Fine of $500 to $1,500 and additional fees
• License revocation lasting 18 months to 2 years
• Installation of ignition interlock device to drive

Third DUI Conviction

• 10 to 30 days of imprisonment
• Fine of $500 to $2,500 and additional fees
• License revocation lasting 2 years
• Installation of ignition interlock device to drive

When individuals are convicted of third or subsequent offenses that occur within a 10-year period, they can end up getting their driver's licenses revoked for a period of five to 10 years. Harsher license revocations can also be given to those who refuse to submit to breath or blood tests following DUI arrests. These revocation periods can last 2 to 10 years, depending on how many previous DUI offenses a person has. This is because Hawaii is an implied consent state, which means that there is a presumption that anyone who accepts driving privileges in their state automatically provides his or her consent to this testing once he or she is lawfully arrested for suspected DUI.

In addition to these damaging criminal penalties, being labeled as a repeat offender can also damage your reputation. Having a more extensive criminal record can make it more difficult for you to obtain the job or housing you want in the future. Employers and landlords are usually not interested in listening to your side of the story, even if there is a good explanation behind your criminal convictions. By fighting your new DUI charges, you can help create better opportunities for yourself in the future.

There are many ways to challenge DUI allegations. Tests commonly used for showing driver impairment-such as field sobriety tests and chemical tests-are often subject to human and technological error. In other cases, law enforcement officers might have failed to follow proper procedures during the police stop or arrest process, leading a much higher chance of a dismissed case. When you work with me, I will thoroughly review the facts of your case and search for any potential weaknesses in the prosecutor's case against you. I have had over two decades of experience as a Honolulu DUI lawyer. Contact me to learn more about your options for moving forward with your case!