I just got my second DUI in CA. I haven’t been drinking a lot lately and just quit one o my jobs where partying was encouraged. My first one was when I was under 21 and I completed everything for it. No one was involved in either crash other than myself and my pour totaled cars. I don’t want to go to prison. I don’t know if I need to hire a lawyer. I never want this to happen again. If I have a couple drinks I take it too far and black out. I haven’t drank and drove since the first one I don’t understand how it happened. I’m so angry and scared
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I can only imagine. Never had trouble with the law or driven under the influence, just my own bag of mistakes. But I feel for you, that amount of stress and uncertainty would be a lot. Especially not even knowing how it happened this time around.
Are you looking to quit drinking going forward? This community can help support and advise you during your recovery - if you don’t drink anymore, there won’t be more DUIs to worry about. I don’t mean that in a judgy way or to rub it all in. I want you to not have to worry about alcohol disrupting your life anymore. Or ending it, if your luck runs out while ending up behind the wheel loaded.
Wish I could help you with your questions on the legal process - unfortunately I’m not familiar with DUI stuff or even American law in general.
I have never been caught, but I have also driven drunk. Once with my kid in the car. I know how scared you must be. I’m thinking of you. Your doing the right thing to stop drinking.
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Dont overwhelm yourself of your outcomes. Just take prior action. Getting legal advice is never a bad idea. Your guilty of the charge so your probably go thru classes and groups for some kind of dui related plea. Maybe getting into a rehab or outpatient (IOP) you can provide proof of getting yourself help will go a long way to the judge or court…goodluck
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Yes, you need to hire a lawyer.
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Downloading this app and talking to the lovely supportive community on here is a big step to take, great job! As for the DUI’s, yes you must lawyer up. I can only imagine how afraid you are right now, but it CAN and WILL get better, there is nothing you can’t bounce back from! It sounds like you know moderate drinking is a struggle for you, and knowledge is power. If everything feels a bit too overwhelming right now, try to just take life 10 minutes at a time, get a bit of light exercise if you feel up to it, and keep talking to us here if you need to chat! Sending love 
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So sorry to hear of this, and I know the shame and sadness that comes from it. I would definitely seek counsel. I did and it really makes a difference. I’m not sure about CA but I’m assuming there will be additional criteria involved with a 2nd DUI. You’re not alone, a lot of us have been there. (((Hugs)))
@Klarson I’m an old DUI guy, with 5 convictions.On the practical, legal front, do not admit any guilt, don’t offer any excuses, alibis or other facts, get a lawyer. The penalties and process vary by state.
Know this, that it will get better. Just do the first thing you have to do and worry not for the future. Whatever is in front of you is what you need to think about and to do. All will be well, even if you don’t believe it and can’t see how that can possibly be true.
When I did get sober, I was on house arrest for my last DUI and attending AA, counseling, and the Department of Corrections intensive outpatient program. That was the time for me to be honest and to take responsibility for my drunken actions and for pursuing my sobriety. In DOC, there are lots of guys who deny their addiction and blame the arrest on someone else or some external condition or just bad luck. They showed me that untreated addiction leads to jail and death and insanity, nowhere else. The people in AA showed me that there is a way to peace and contentment and harmony. It is my choice and my responsibility.
I start by not drinking today. I decide that and put the decision into action. I pray you find the path that fits your soul. 
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