Michigan Criminal Lawyers Blog
On Saturday evening January 17, 50-year-old Linda Grace Mendoza of Santa Maria was arrested on suspicion of felony DUI. According to a news article at Noozhawk.com, Mendoza has three prior DUI convictions within the last 10 years, making this her fourth.
Officers with the Santa Maria Police Department allegedly found Mendoza behind the wheel of a vehicle that was parked; she was intoxicated, according to the officers. Lt. Dan Cohen said that Mendoza was booked into the Santa Barbara County Jail, and was charged with driving with a suspended license, driving while on probation for DUI, DUI, and driving with a BAC (blood alcohol content) higher than .08%.
In California, a fourth DUI following three convictions within a 10 year period is a felony punishable by up to four years in prison, up to $1,000 in fines, driver’s license revocation for four years, and more.
Drunk driving is a serious offense that leads to serious consequences without the assistance of a skilled Michigan DUI defense attorney. In Michigan, a fourth offense DUI could result in fines of up to $5,000, a maximum of five years in prison, court ordered attendance of an alcohol program, community service, and more. In addition, the minimum jail time is 30 days, which means if convicted, you will spend one month behind bars.
Any DUI charge is serious, and can have lasting consequences on your future. A criminal record will impact employment opportunities and more. Your reputation and career may be in jeopardy. While driving under the influence may not seem like such a “big deal,” it definitely is – it is a criminal offense, not a traffic infraction. You will also lose your privilege to drive for a specific length of time, depending on how many times you have been convicted for DUI in the past.
Regardless of whether it is your first, second, third, or fourth offense, do not attempt to beat a DUI charge on your own. Consult with a highly experienced Michigan DUI lawyer who will thoroughly review your case, advise you of the options, and work to secure the best possible results.