3. Is it worse if my prior was recent?
Yes in most cases. If there are no viable defenses in your current case, then additional hurdles will likely be present such as a violation of probation charge in Sonoma County (usually at least an additional 30 days jail exposure), and possible remand to jail or tougher conditions of release during the case due to heightened Sonoma County court concerns with community safety following a new DUI arrest if the repeat offender is out on bail or "own recognizance."
Tougher conditions may include the Supervised Own Recognizance ("SOR") requirements to check in periodically with a probation officer, random alcohol and drug testing, a "SCRAM" alcohol monitoring ankle bracelet and mandatory AA atttendance. Sometimes a local Santa Rosa DUI lawyer can work to alleviate the court's concerns for community safety and avoid such additional conditions in particular cases.
Even if the blood alcohol levels alleged in the current case are below .08%, the Santa Rosa DMV may act to suspend a driver license for a year (with no possibility of any work or other driving privileges) if a new DUI arrest occurred while the driver was on probation for a prior conviction. However it may still be possible to obtain an ignition interlock restricted license after a relatively short wait period, pursuant to new laws. Consult with a DUI lawyer in Sonoma County about your specific case.