Mississippi Criminal and Family Law BlogMississippi has strict DUI laws, and the state is not very sympathetic towards drivers who get behind the wheel while intoxicated on multiple occasions. Things can get especially bad if you commit three DUIs within five years in the Magnolia State. But why is this such a big deal? What exactly happens when you commit three DUIs in five years, and how can you fight these charges in the most efficient way possible?
The answer to the last question is simple: get in touch with a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. As you will soon find out, the consequences for getting three DUIs within five years are quite serious, and you will need top-notch legal assistance if you want to get through this situation. Our qualified defense lawyers can use a number of strategies to mitigate any consequences you might be facing, allowing you to fight for your freedom.
You Will Face Felony Charges
There is no sugar-coating this. If you commit three DUIs within the space of five years, you will face felony charges. Mississippi has a “three strikes” system, which means that you will face much more serious penalties for your third DUI offense. Mississippi also has a “lookback” period of five years, which means only the previous five years are considered when assessing your past offenses.
What are the Consequences?
You will face a number of potential consequences if you commit a third DUI within five years, including:
- Between one and five years in prison
- $2,000 to $5,000 in fines
- Legal fees
- Suspended license
- Installation of interlock device
- Psychological assessments
- Alcohol addiction programs
- Community service
- Educational programs
Fighting a DUI Offense
Because of these consequences, it becomes very important to fight your DUI charge in the most effective way. This might be easier than you think – especially if you enlist the help of a qualified attorney. For example, the police officer who pulled you over may have made some kind of mistake. Perhaps the breathalyzer machine was not calibrated properly, and it encountered some kind of error. Maybe there is not sufficient proof that you were intoxicated. Perhaps the police officer in question committed some kind of violation in the process of the traffic stop, making your arrest unlawful. There are a number of potential strategies that may be helpful.
Enlist the Help of a Qualified Attorney Today
If you have been searching the Mississippi area for a qualified, experienced criminal defense attorney, look no further than Vic Carmody Jr., P.A. Over the years, we have handled a considerable number of DUI cases, including felony DUIs. We know that the stakes are high in this situation, which is exactly why you need the best legal representation you can find. With our assistance, you can avoid serious consequences and fight for your rights in an effective manner. Book your consultation today, and we can immediately get started on a defense strategy together.