As of today, there is a 10 year "look-back" period for separate DUI convictions. This means, if you got your first DUI conviction within 10 years of the date of your most recent DUI arrest, you are accused of a "second time DUI." In addition to consequences concerning your license, there are additional and equally serious consequences including, jail, DUI classes, Community Work Program, Fines and other consequences. Contact The Law Offices of Keith J. Bruno for a free consultation and explanation of your options.

If you are convicted of a second DUI within the look-back period, your license will be suspended. The suspension is for two years based on the conviction. However, the second year can be converted to a restriction if you have enrolled in the SB-38 program, have completed most of it, and install an ignition interlock device (IID) in your car, pay the reinstatement fee and file a SR-22 (proof of insurance).

Note, you have the option of either an IID with unlimited driving subject to the IID, or a restricted license that restricts driving to: to and from work or within the course and scope of work, and to/from your alcohol program. There is no requirement that a year of the program be completed before being eligible for either restriction.

There is some confusion as to the length of suspension because, like all things related to DUI, there is no consistency nor applied logic in the manner in which the government punishes you. An individual CONVICTED of a second time DUI is always looking at a mandatory two year suspension on a 2nd time DUI once the DMV receives abstract of judgment (proof of your conviction) from court in which your case was heard. The confusion seems to come from the fact that the initial admin per se (APS) hearing and suspension is only a year, but the conviction is what triggers the 2 year suspension. Many times, the conviction comes after the APS hearing, so the total suspension time, if not handled properly, can actually exceed the two year period.

If you have been accused of a DUI, contact the Orange County, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino and San Diego DUI defense firm of The Law Offices of Keith J. Bruno. We offer a free face-to-face consultation and can work out a payment plan in most situations.

The Santa Ana, Orange County, California, Law Offices of Keith J. Bruno represents Californians who have been accused, charged, or arrested for DUI and other criminal offenses in Orange County, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino and San Diego.