Third Offense DUI in Henrico County: Felony Penalties & Long-Term Consequences

If you’ve been charged with a third DUI offense in Henrico County, you need an experienced Henrico felony DUI lawyer who understands both the law and the local courts. Under Virginia Code §18.2-270, a third DUI within ten years is a felony — carrying mandatory jail time, license revocation, and lifelong consequences.

At Peters Law Firm, we’ve successfully defended clients facing third-offense DUI charges in Henrico, Richmond, Chesterfield, and Hanover. Our attorneys know how to challenge the evidence, question procedures, and fight for the best possible outcome.


1. Why a Third DUI Is a Felony in Virginia

A third DUI in Virginia becomes a felony because the law assumes a pattern of high risk and repeat behavior. Penalties under §18.2-270 include:

  • Mandatory minimum jail time: 90 days (within 10 years) or 6 months (within 5 years)

  • Up to 5 years in state prison

  • Indefinite license revocation

  • $1,000+ fine and possible vehicle forfeiture

A skilled Henrico felony DUI lawyer can examine whether your prior convictions qualify, whether they occurred within the required time frame, and whether they’re admissible in court.


2. How Henrico County Prosecutes Third-Offense DUIs

Henrico prosecutors take repeat DUIs very seriously. Police use body-cam footage, dash cameras, and breathalyzer data to build cases — but errors often happen. Our team has handled numerous Henrico felony DUI cases and understands how local officers document arrests, how prosecutors approach plea deals, and which defenses resonate with judges.

We regularly appear before the Henrico General District and Circuit Courts, advocating for reduced charges or alternative sentencing whenever possible.


3. Common Defenses in Felony DUI Cases

Even in serious cases, the law provides defenses your lawyer can use, including:

  • Illegal traffic stops (no reasonable suspicion)

  • Improper field sobriety testing or uncalibrated equipment

  • Inaccurate BAC timeline or procedural errors

  • Violation of your constitutional rights during questioning

Our attorneys at Peters Law Firm have successfully argued these issues to get charges reduced or dismissed, protecting our clients’ freedom and livelihood.


4. Long-Term Consequences of a Felony DUI in Virginia

A third DUI conviction can impact every part of your life:

  • Loss of driver’s license for an indefinite period

  • Difficulty finding or keeping a job

  • Loss of professional licenses or firearm rights

  • Higher insurance premiums and permanent criminal record

Our Henrico felony DUI lawyers help clients manage both the criminal case and the practical challenges that follow — from restricted licenses to compliance with ignition-interlock requirements.


5. Peters Law Firm’s Experience in Felony DUI Defense

At Peters Law Firm, we’ve defended clients in Henrico County and across Central Virginia facing felony DUI charges and repeat-offense prosecutions. We combine local experience with aggressive courtroom strategy, analyzing every piece of evidence to uncover procedural errors or weaknesses in the Commonwealth’s case.

We believe everyone deserves a strong defense — especially when the stakes include your freedom, reputation, and ability to provide for your family.

We help people protect their liberty and livelihood when facing criminal charges.