2nd DUI Offense in California

Potential Penalties & Recent Arrests

Drunk driving is a major cause of fatal accidents across the United States. It is against the law to drive or operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 percent or more. In Orange County, CA DUI is considered to be a serious criminal offense and repeat offenders can expect to be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. A conviction for a 2nd DUI offense can result in jail time, hefty fines, as well as other penalties.

When sentencing a defendant convicted of DUI, the judge will consider the past record of the defendant. If the defendant has a prior DUI conviction, it will result in enhanced penalties. While a DUI in Orange County is generally a misdemeanor offense, it will be tried as a felony offense if it results in the death of another person. A felony offense is punishable with a prison term exceeding one year and a fine of $1000 or more.

For ferocious defense, turn to our California 2^nd offense DUI attorneys at the Law Offices of Randy Collins. Contact our firm today to get started.

Recent Arrest for 2nd DUI Offense in Orange County

A 42-year-old man was arrested on Tuesday, May 7, 2013 for a suspected DUI accident. The accident occurred on Santa Margarita Parkway and Los Alisos Boulevard in Mission Viejo around 11:40 p.m. The crash was fatal and resulted in the death of a 36-year-old mother of three.

The man was identified as William Joseph Carroll, a resident of Mission Viejo. He suffered serious injuries and had to be taken to Mission Hospital. The victim identified as Ana Martinez died instantly.

Carroll was driving his red Ford pick-up truck on the northbound Santa Margarita Parkway but in the opposite direction. He was attempting to turn onto the southbound lanes but turned onto the northbound lanes instead. It resulted in a head-on collision with Martinez’s white Toyota Sienna minivan. The impact of the crash instantly killed Martinez who was on her way home in Trabuco. Both vehicles were damaged from the front.

Depending on the results of the police investigation, Carroll could face criminal charges ranging from manslaughter to murder. The police are yet to determine if he was under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Officers who responded to the accident call detected signs of intoxication, including a strong odor of alcohol. Carroll has a DUI conviction from 2008.

Second DUI Legal Information

In California, if an officer arrests a person for DUI and the officer is aware of the person’s previous conviction for a DUI offense in the preceding ten years, the officer can impound the vehicle. The results of a chemical test will be admitted as evidence of DUI if the test is conducted within three hours of the DUI stop.

Why Choosing the Right DUI Attorney Matters

Choosing the right attorney for a 2nd DUI offense in California is critical because the stakes are significantly higher than with a first-time charge. A second DUI can lead to mandatory jail time, substantial fines, longer license suspensions, and harsher probation terms, all of which can disrupt your career, family life, and financial stability. With enhanced penalties and the possibility of felony charges in serious cases, having an experienced lawyer who understands how California courts treat repeat offenders can make the difference between minimizing the damage and facing life-altering consequences.

An experienced DUI attorney is also essential because second-offense cases are often more aggressively prosecuted. Prosecutors will rely heavily on your prior record and may push for maximum penalties, making it vital to have a defense lawyer who knows how to challenge the evidence, question the legality of the traffic stop, and scrutinize breath or blood test results. At the Law Offices of Randy Collins, Attorney Collins’ background as a former prosecutor gives him unique insight into how DUI cases are built, allowing him to anticipate the prosecution’s strategy and identify weaknesses that can be used to protect your rights.

Finally, choosing the right attorney means choosing someone who will fight for you, not judge you. A second DUI does not define who you are, but it can shape your future if not handled properly. Attorney Randy Collins is known for his aggressive, results-driven approach and his commitment to clients who are facing serious charges. With a strong reputation in Orange County courts, professional recognition, and a history of successful outcomes, the Law Offices of Randy Collins provide the experience, dedication, and personalized attention you need when your freedom and future are on the line.

For more information about DUI offenses, or to receive a free case evaluation from an experienced California DUI lawyer, call (844) 241-1221. The Law Offices of Randy Collins will provide you with free information to help get you back on your feet.