Getting a DUI California can lead to many undesirable consequences, including jail time, fines, probation, mandatory classes, mandatory license suspension and other penalties.
California DUI Legal Consequences
Depending on your criminal background (whether you have had prior DUI convictions) and your age, the following consequences may result from a DUI conviction under California law:
- For first time offenders, you may be sent to jail for up to six months, fines may be imposed of up to $1000 and your license may be suspended for up to six months. You may be required to complete a special course for DUI offenders, pay for a special kind of insurance and in some cases installation of an ignition device to determine blood alcohol content prior to driving is required. You may have to pay the cost of installation of any device. Other penalties may be imposed on a case-by-case basis.
- For second-time DUI offenders, you may be sent to jail for up to one year, fines may be imposed of up to $1000 and your license may be suspended for up to two years. Completion of special DUI coursework and specialty DUI conviction insurance will also likely be required. You may be able to apply for a restricted license if you need it to get to work or other court allowed activity. This will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
- For third-time DUI offenders, you may be sent to jail for up to one year, fines may be imposed of up to $1000 and your license may be suspended for up to three years. You may be considered a habitual offender. You may be required to install a device on your ignition which measures your blood alcohol level prior to starting your car. Other consequences may apply on a case-by-case basis.
The proximity in time between each offense is used to determine whether the penalties will increase. Generally, a DUI that occurs within ten years of another causes increase in penalties.
Getting Legal Advice
It is a good idea to at least consult an attorney as to the possible defenses you may assert in your DUI case. You might not realize that you have a defense until after you have discussed your case with an experienced attorney. If you have a decent defense, fighting your case in court could save you money, embarrassment and time in the long run.
