A DUI (Driving Under the Influence) conviction can result in loss of reputation, costly fines, required attendance at alcohol education classes, suspension or revocation of your driver's license, increase in or cancellation of your auto insurance, placing an ignition interlock in your car, and, in some case jail or prison. In San Diego, California, where most commuters travel the freeways, and public transportation is generally lacking, losing the privilege to drive can be devastating to a person's career, as well as one's personal life.
California DUIs are "priorable" offenses. This means that the punishment increases with each successive drunk driving conviction that takes place within a ten year period. Receiving a DUI in San Diego, California can be severe, depending on whether you're facing your first, second, third, or subsequent driving under the influence conviction. Most drunk driving cases are prosecuted as misdemeanors, although certain offenses will rise to the level of California felony DUI.
First Offense Misdemeanor California DUI
- Probation for three to five years
- Up to six months in county jail
- Ranging from $390-$1000 in fines
- Three or nine month alcohol education program approved by the court
- Six to ten month license suspension which means you are able to drive during the course of your employment, to and from work, school, and California DUI School.
If you are arrested you have 10 days to hire an experienced California DUI attorney to represent you at the hearing. Contact our office today to hire an experienced California DUI attorney.
Second Offense Misdemeanor California DUI
- Three to five years probation
- 96 hours to one year in county jail
- Ranging from $390-$1000 in fines
- 18 month or 30 month alcohol education program approved by the court
- 2 year license suspension (after twelve months, may be converted to a restricted license)
Third Offense Misdemeanor California DUI
- Three to five years probation
- 120 days to one year in county jail
- Ranging from $390-$1000 in fines
- 30 month alcohol education program approved by the court
- 3 year license revocation (after 18 months, may be converted to a restricted license)
Hiring an experienced San Diego DUI defense attorney to represent you in court and at your DMV hearing is invaluable to helping you avoid the harsh penalties that can surge from a California DUI conviction. To discuss your case with one of our skilled California DUI defense attorneys, please contact our office today.
