Multiple DUI Attorney in Eagle
Facing A Second, Third or Subsequent DUI Charge? You Are Not Alone
If you are dealing with a second or multiple DUI charge after an arrest in or around Eagle, it can feel like your life is about to be torn apart. You may be worried about jail, your license, your job, and how your family will react. At Atkinson Law Office, we understand how frightening it is to face the court again, and our team is here to help you take the next step.
Since 2010, we have represented people across the Treasure Valley in serious criminal cases, including many involving repeat DUI charges. Our firm has handled over 1000 criminal cases, is led by a board-certified criminal law specialist in criminal law, and has a success rate of more than 90 percent in criminal matters.
We pair that experience with a non-judgmental approach, so you can talk honestly about what happened and what you are afraid of. We offer free consultations, including virtual meetings, so you can get clear, straightforward advice about your situation before important deadlines arrive.
Whether you are facing a second misdemeanor or a third-offense felony, we are ready to stand between you and the prosecution. For a free consultation and a comprehensive strategic review of your case, call (208) 670-8164 or reach out online. Let Atkinson Law Office, PLLC fight for your second chance.
Penalties for Repeat DUI Offenses in Idaho
In Idaho, the lookback period for DUI offenses is ten years. That means if you are convicted of a DUI and are later charged with another DUI within ten years of the prior conviction, the new offense is treated as a second (or subsequent) DUI with enhanced penalties. Convictions older than ten years generally do not count toward repeat DUI sentencing enhancements.
When a second or multiple DUI arrest happens in Eagle, the case typically moves through Ada County court processes. That can involve appearances at the Ada County Courthouse and interaction with local prosecutors and judges who regularly handle DUI matters from the Treasure Valley.
Idaho's sentencing guidelines for multiple DUIs are among the most rigid in the country. The law mandates minimum punishments that a judge cannot ignore unless the evidence is successfully challenged by a skilled Eagle multiple DUI lawyer.
Second Offense DUI (Within 10 Years)
A second offense within ten years remains a misdemeanor but carries "mandatory minimums" that are significantly more severe than a first offense:
- Jail Time: 10 days to 1 year (at least 10 days must be served in jail).
- Fines: Up to $2,000.
- License Suspension: A mandatory one-year absolute suspension. This means no restricted permit is available for work or school for the entire year.
- Ignition Interlock: Mandatory installation for at least one year following the suspension period.
Third Offense DUI (Felony)
In Idaho, a third DUI conviction within a 10-year window is a Felony.
- Prison Time: 30 days to 10 years in the Idaho State Penitentiary.
- Fines: Up to $5,000.
- License Suspension: Mandatory revocation for 1 to 5 years (the first year is absolute).
- Permanent Felony Record: Loss of your right to possess firearms and the loss of your right to vote while serving your sentence.
Why People Turn To Our Team For Second & Multiple DUI Charges
When you are facing charges for a second or multiple DUI, the lawyer you choose matters. You may already feel like the system has decided who you are, and you need a defense team that will see more than your record. Our attorneys have guided more than 1000 criminal cases through Idaho courts, and we have built our practice around serious charges that can change a person’s life.
Our firm is led by a board-certified criminal law specialist in criminal law, a credential that reflects advanced training and a deep focus on criminal defense work. We also have a success rate over 90 percent in criminal matters. Those numbers are not promises about what will happen in your case, but they do show how seriously we take each client’s future and how often our approach has produced strong outcomes.
We also bring something many firms do not have. Both of our partners have personally stood in court as defendants. We know what it feels like to be scared, to worry about being labeled forever, and to feel that no one is listening. That experience shapes everything we do. We believe every person is innocent until proven guilty, and we treat clients with the respect and dignity we wanted when we were in their position. If you are looking for a multiple dui lawyer Eagle who will listen before judging, our team is ready to talk.
Defensive Strategies for Multiple DUI Charges
When you are facing a repeat offense, the prosecution is less likely to offer a "standard" plea deal. Our defense must be focused on the technicalities of the law and the science of the testing.
- Auditing the 10-Year "Look-Back": We carefully review your prior convictions. If a past conviction was handled improperly or if the legal "look-back" window was calculated incorrectly, we may be able to have the current charge "de-felonized" or reduced to a first-offense status.
- Challenging the Stop and Search: Because the police are often looking for "repeat offenders" in Eagle, they may act on a hunch rather than probable cause. We scrutinize the officer's dash-cam and body-cam footage. If the initial traffic stop was illegal, all subsequent evidence—including the breathalyzer or blood test—may be suppressed.
- Forensic Testing Deficits: Breath-testing machines like the Lifeloc FC20 or the Alco-Sensor used in Ada County require strict maintenance. We demand the calibration logs and operator certifications. If the machine was overdue for service or if the officer failed to follow the 15-minute observation period, the BAC results can be thrown out.
- Alternative Sentencing: In some cases, the best defense involves an aggressive "mitigation" plan. We work to place our clients in intensive treatment programs or "Alternative Sentencing" (like the Ada County Community Transition Center) to satisfy the court's requirements while keeping you out of a traditional jail cell and keeping you employed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I go to jail for a second DUI in Idaho?
A second DUI carries a higher risk of jail than a first, but actual outcomes depend on factors like the timing of the prior DUI, your record, and the circumstances of the arrest. Idaho law sets mandatory minimums in some cases, but judges have discretion. We explain the likely penalty ranges and how your history and case details may influence potential jail time.
How much does it cost to hire a DUI lawyer for a second offense?
Costs vary based on case complexity, number of court appearances, and whether the matter goes to trial. We offer free consultations to explain fees, outline work involved, and discuss payment options. Our goal is transparency, so you can make informed decisions about hiring representation without surprises, even after handling fines or fees from a prior DUI.
What can a lawyer actually do in a multiple DUI case?
A lawyer can review the legality of stops, analyze field sobriety and chemical tests, examine prior convictions, and identify potential weaknesses in the state’s case. Attorneys also negotiate with prosecutors, file motions, and prepare clients for hearings. While outcomes aren’t guaranteed, having an experienced lawyer ensures your side is presented effectively and that procedural or evidentiary issues are addressed strategically.
How quickly should I contact a lawyer after my second DUI arrest?
It’s best to contact a lawyer immediately after a second DUI arrest. Early involvement helps review paperwork, testing, and deadlines while events are fresh, and allows preparation for the first court appearance. Acting quickly preserves options and can prevent mistakes. Free consultations and virtual meetings make it easy to get guidance without missing work or traveling long distances.
Talk With Our Team About Your Second Or Multiple DUI—Call Now
A second or multiple DUI charge in or around Eagle is serious, but it does not have to define the rest of your life. With the right information and a dedicated defense team, you can make informed decisions about how to respond and what steps to take next. At Atkinson Law Office, we draw on years of work in Treasure Valley courts, more than 1000 criminal cases, and our own experience on the other side of the system to guide clients through some of their hardest moments.
To talk with our team about your second or multiple DUI, call (208) 670-8164 or reach out online today.
Why Trust Atkinson Law Office?
What Sets Us Apart
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Empathetic GuidanceUnderstanding the personal and legal challenges our clients face, we offer empathetic guidance and unwavering support to help them navigate their DUI cases with confidence.
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Dedicated AdvocacyWe are committed to providing diligent and ethical representation, fighting for the best possible outcomes while maintaining the integrity of the legal profession.
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Compassionate RepresentationWe genuinely care about our clients' well-being and future, offering compassionate and personalized legal support through every step of their DUI case.
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Integrity and TransparencyWe uphold the highest standards of honesty and transparency in all our dealings, ensuring our clients are always well-informed and trust in the legal process.
What To Do Right After A Second DUI Arrest In Eagle
The hours following a second DUI arrest can feel overwhelming and stressful. Taking thoughtful, early actions can protect your rights, prevent additional complications, and give your attorney the information needed to build an effective defense.
While emotions may run high, staying organized and cautious in the first days can make a meaningful difference in how your case progresses.
- Review all paperwork carefully: Keep citations, notices, and any documents from law enforcement in a safe place. Note court dates and any license-related deadlines to avoid missing important requirements.
- Document your memory of the stop: Write down details such as where you were coming from and going, why you were stopped, statements made, field sobriety tests, and any breath or blood testing.
- Limit discussions about the case: Avoid talking about the arrest on social media or with anyone who doesn’t need to know.
- Exercise caution with law enforcement: Do not provide statements or explanations without consulting a lawyer first.
- Contact a defense attorney promptly: Early involvement allows your attorney to review the facts, explain your rights, and outline the next steps. Free consultations and virtual meetings are often available to make this process easier.
The penalties for repeat offenders in Idaho are life-changing. Put our experience in your corner. We offer free consultations and a commitment to protecting your rights in Ada County. Call us today at (208) 670-8164 or message us online to discuss your options.
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Call Us Today! 208-670-8164