A DUI arrest in California can have serious consequences, even if it is your first offense. A conviction means a suspended license, costly fines, and possible jail time. It might feel like an impossible situation, but you aren’t powerless.
If you are facing a DUI charge, contact a lawyer as soon as possible. Don’t try to fight the government on your own. An experienced Stevenson Ranch DUI lawyer can fight for your rights and help you get your life back on track.
We can help you get in touch with a DUI attorney who knows the law and can help you determine the best next steps. You don’t have to fight this alone!
What Is a DUI in California?
While driving under the influence seems self-explanatory, the intricacies of DUI laws are more complex. An attorney can help you understand your charges and whether or not they have merit.
Blood Alcohol Limits
In California, the blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) necessary to charge most drivers over the age of 21 with DUI is 0.08%. That means, if you are stopped and submit to a breath or blood test, you will be charged with DUI if you register a BAC of 0.08% or higher.
There are some exceptions and variations:
- For drivers under the age of 21, the BAC limit for DUI is 0.01%.
- For commercial vehicle drivers, including taxis, limousines, and ride-share services, the BAC limit is 0.04%.
- For drivers on DUI probation, the BAC limit is 0.01%.
Driving Under the Influence of Drugs in California (DUID)
Like drinking and driving, you will face serious consequences if you are arrested for driving under the influence of drugs. However, there is no test to indicate your level of impairment.
Instead, the arresting officer will make a judgment call based on the events that led to their suspicion, evidence found at the scene, and your behavior. The officer may then call a drug recognition expert for further evaluation and, eventually, a blood test.
A blood test can’t show your level of impairment; it can only reveal if drugs are present in your system. A skilled Stevenson Ranch DUI attorney will know how to contest your charges and give you the best chance of beating them.
What Happens With a First-Offense DUI Conviction in California?
Your first DUI carries a lighter sentence than a repeat offense, but penalties are still significant. Keep in mind that an arrest is not the same as a conviction. A skilled DUI attorney knows the potential ways to win your DUI case and may be able to help.
Here are some of the things you can expect:
Your License Will Be Suspended
For a first DUI, your license will be suspended for four months. The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) takes this action, and it is separate from any criminal charges you may face. The suspension begins thirty days after your arrest. You may request a hearing within 10 days to contest the suspension.
It is smart to contact an attorney immediately after your arrest. They can offer advice on how or if you should contest your suspension. They could even get your charges dropped, depending on your situation.
To get your license back, you must first address your outstanding criminal charges and associated penalties. You may also be required to take a DUI education course.
You Will Face Criminal Charges
In California, DUI is not an automatic felony. Your first DUI is likely a misdemeanor. You may see a license suspension, a fine of up to $1,000, and up to five months on parole.
However, depending on the circumstance of your DUI, you could face up to six months in prison. Some factors that may complicate your case and lead to harsher penalties include:
- If you had a child in the car while you were driving under the influence
- If you were involved in an accident while driving under the influence
Consult a DUI attorney in Stevenson Ranch for a full explanation of the charges against you and the penalties you could face.
DUI Penalties for Repeat Offenders
Repeat offenders with DUI convictions within the same 10-year period face much harsher penalties than first-time DUI offenders. As a second-, third-, or fourth-time offender, you will see tougher fines, longer jail time and/or probation, and more extensive DUI program requirements.
- Second offense: Two-year license suspension, fines up to $1,000, 3-5 years informal probation, DUI education programs, up to one year in jail
- Third offense: Three-year license suspension, fines up to $3,000, 3-5 years probation, DUI education, up to one year in jail
- Fourth offense: Four-year license suspension, may be classified as a felony, one year in jail, DUI education program
The State of California will also require you to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on your car. This device requires the driver to submit to a breathalyzer test when starting the vehicle. If the driver fails the test, the car will not start.
Felony DUI in California
In California, your DUI can be a felony if:
- You caused the death or injury of another person
- It is your fourth DUI charge in less than ten years
- You already have a felony conviction at the time of your arrest
- Your DUI endangered the life of a child.
Depending on the severity of your charges, a felony DUI can mean extensive prison time and serious fines. In some cases, it can lead to a permanent revocation of your driving privileges. Talk to an attorney to find out how a lawyer can help you with a DUI charge.
Connect With a Stevenson Ranch DUI Lawyer
The repercussions of a DUI conviction can follow you for years and possibly for the rest of your life. It might seem like there is no way out of your situation, but a skilled Stevenson Ranch DUI attorney will know the best course of action.
Your attorney may be able to argue for a lesser charge or challenge the evidence against you. They might be able to get your charges dropped altogether. Every situation is different, and you won’t know what your lawyer can do until you meet with them and discuss your case.
One thing is for certain, though: It is tough to beat DUI charges on your own. At Los Angeles DUI Lawyers, we can help you get in contact with a skilled DUI attorney who can give you a fighting chance.
