DUI In Alabama Second Offense
Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious crime in the United State—and if you are arrested in Alabama, you will face some of the toughest sentencing guidelines in the country, especially if you are a repeat offender. Indeed, under the state’s DUI laws, a second offense carries a number of harsh criminal penalties.
Are You Considered A Repeat Offender?
From a legal perspective, any person who has been convicted of driving under the influence within the last five years is considered a repeat offender if he or she is arrested for a subsequent offense. Unlike a first offense, a second DUI conviction carries a minimum five-day jail sentence, as well as a one-year license suspension and up to a $5,100 fine. You will also have to perform at least 30 days of community service if you are found guilty of a second drunk driving charge.
Challenging A Second DUI Arrest
Even if you have a history of DUI, the prosecution must prove you are guilty of the current charges against you before you can be convicted of a second DUI—and with the right defense strategy, this can be an extremely difficult task for the State. From proving the arresting officer lacked probable cause for your arrest to refuting your chemical test results, there are a number of ways to challenge the evidence against you and increase your chances of obtaining a successful outcome for your case.
Of course, challenging a drunk driving charge is not that simple. To determine the best way to fight a second DUI offense, most drivers must obtain legal representation. As a result, if you were recently arrested for driving under the influence and have a prior DUI conviction on your record, it is more important than ever to have an experienced attorney by your side when you day in court finally arrives.
Our attorneys have more than 60 years of combined experience fighting Alabama DUI cases. Each member of our legal team remains committed to staying on top of the latest drunk-driving defense strategies and techniques–ultimately benefitting our clients. Our firm has handled cases across the state, and we have a proven track record of obtaining the dismissal, acquittal and reduction of DUI charges.
For more information on challenging a DUI, complete our online form today to connect with one of our skilled drunk-driving defense attorneys and receive a free case evaluation.