While any type of DUI arrest can impact a person’s life, the penalties increase in severity with repeat offenses. A third-time DUI in Junction City can have serious long-term consequences that affect your reputation, relationships, and overall well-being. Depending on the circumstances of the arrest, the state could classify the charge as a misdemeanor or felony.
If you have been accused of a third drunk driving offense, it is crucial to discuss your legal options with a dedicated DUI attorney. An arrest does not always guarantee a conviction, and there are often several ways to dispute the charge. Let a lawyer guide you on how to handle a third-time DUI charge.
Understanding Misdemeanor Versus Felony Charges
DUIs are often categorized based on how many prior convictions a person has. First-time offenders typically face lighter penalties, while a second conviction is treated more seriously. When it comes to a third-time DUI, an individual may face felony penalties in Junction City.
Misdemeanors
A person may face misdemeanor charges if both of their prior convictions occurred more than 10 years ago. This offense is considered a Class A misdemeanor, which results in a jail sentence of 90 days to one year. Additionally, an individual may have to pay a fine between $1,750 and $2,500.
Felonies
A DUI becomes a felony if one of the two prior convictions happened within the last 10 years. However, both misdemeanors and felonies carry similar potential penalties for jail time and fines.
A credible attorney could explain the various penalties a person may face for their DUI charge and determine the best approach to avoid a conviction. Call (785) 645-2732 today!
While the penalties for misdemeanors and felony DUIs may be similar, a felony conviction comes with additional long-term consequences.
For instance, felons lose certain constitutional rights, such as voting and legally owning a firearm. They will also have a permanent criminal record, which can lead to major complications throughout their life. Being a convicted felon also automatically disqualifies a person from certain occupations. It could affect housing applications, child custody cases, or immigration proceedings.
Additionally, a third-time DUI conviction in Junction City may harm an individual’s reputation. They may have difficulty maintaining personal and professional relationships, leading to isolation and social withdrawal.
What Is a “Look-Back” Period?
Most states have a process known as a “look-back” period to determine penalties for a DUI conviction. In these jurisdictions, a prior conviction will only be considered for the purpose of increasing penalties if it falls within this period. For example, in a state with a 10-year look-back period, the courts would consider a conviction from nine years ago, but not one from 11 years ago.
Kansas does not have a look-back period. This means any prior DUI conviction – regardless of where it occurred in the country – may be used to increase the penalties in a current case. The only time the courts in Junction City will consider how recent a DUI conviction was is for a third-time offense.
Speak With a Lawyer in Junction City About a Third-Time DUI Today
If you have been accused of a third DUI, let experienced legal counsel challenge the charge. These allegations are serious, and a conviction could have lasting consequences. CallAddair Law to discuss your rights and options for defending against a third-time DUI in Junction City.
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