If you’ve been faced with driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs within the state of California, you likely understand that this is a serious charge which will have lasting implications. You should consult a DUI lawyer as early as you can after your DUI charge so that he or she can formulate a defense. Lots of people automatically think they should plead guilty to DUI just to “get over it” and “be through with it.” But actually, doing so can subject one to severe penalties, even for a first-time DUI offender. DUI penalties within the state of California may be harsh since it is such a strict state.DUI laws of California have severe penalties. When you have been charged with driving under the influence, you may lose your driver’s license. There will be other repercussions to deal with, too. Here are some things to expect, if this happens to you.
Penalties for DUI
In California, all cases of DUI involve facing penalties which are dependent on particular laws that govern DUI charges. Your personal circumstances will also be considered once the judge that hears your DUI case makes a ruling or judgment against you. This may include the facts of the case, the way in which you were arrested and the facts surrounding your arrest, your BAC level whenever you were arrested, and even the judge’s unique opinion of DUIs. One big factor that may determine the level of DUI penalties you’ll face is the experience and skill level of your DUI attorney with regards to working together with the district attorney or D.A. in your particular case. Sometimes your competent DUI lawyer can make a deal and have your charges reduced. In other instances, your lawyer may need to litigate your case before a jury.
What to Expect After DUI Conviction
Generally, with the first time DUI offense within the state of California, you will probably lose your driving privileges. When having a first time DUI conviction, usually a person will lose the right to run a motor vehicle for a minimum of six months. The fines that you will face can cost as much as $1000. As stated by attorney Hart Levin these fines can be even steeper when subjected to penalty enhancement. You could also need to pay to get a device set up on your car or truck that verifies your sobriety before your car can be started, which assures the court that you won’t be drunk driving again. Depending on to the BAC test results in your case, you may even be expected as a condition of the sentence to attend an alcohol treatment course that can last as long as half a year. Unfortunately, with a first-time offense of DUI law in California, you might also spend as much as half a year in jail.
Enhanced DUI Fees and Penalties in California
In a few instances, California DUI penalties are enhanced. For instance, if you’re adjudged responsible for speeding while committing the DUI, or if you won’t have undergone blood alcohol content testing, or if you’re driving having a minor in your car while you’re drunk, you can be penalized much more. If you have enhanced DUI penalties you could pay more in costs and fines, you could spend more hours in DUI rehab programs, or you may spend additional time in jail.
As you can see, even a first offense DUI law in California is not to be scoffed at. A DUI charge signifies that you are in serious trouble. Finding a knowledgeable DUI attorney to defend you against DUI is a crucial initial step that can help you to keep your liberty, your reputation, as well as your way of life.
