Experienced Attorneys Representing Individuals Facing DUI/DWI Charges in Los Angeles California
Drunk driving is a serious problem in the State of California and can lead to motor vehicle accidents and deaths. As a result, DUI is punished very harshly under the California Penal Code. California Penal Code 23152(a) VC Driving Under the Influence (DUI): 23152(a) It is a misdemeanor to drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. 23152(b) It is a misdemeanor to drive with . 08% or more of alcohol in your blood. In addition to fines and jail time following a DUI conviction, you may face an administrative driver’s license suspension by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). There are also special considerations with DUI refusal cases, which arise when a driver refuses to take a breathalyzer test.
The penalties of a DUID conviction are the same as those in a DUI alcohol case. The first offense will probably be charged as a misdemeanor, but the penalties will increase in severity for multiple convictions and according to whether or not you caused an accident resulting in injury. Here’s a summary of the potential penalties you may face if charged with DUID:
Offense | Jail | Fine | Driver’s License |
1st offense – misdemeanor | Up to 6 months in county jail | Up to $1,000 | Revoked for 6-10 months, but driver is eligible for a restricted license |
2nd offense – misdemeanor | Up to 1 year in county jail | Up to $1,000 | Revoked for two years; driver is eligible for a restricted license after 12 months |
3rd offense – misdemeanor | Minimum 120 days up to 1 year in county jail | Up to $1,000 | Revoked for three years; driver is eligible for a restricted license after 18 months |
DUI with injury – misdemeanor | Minimum 5 days to 1 year in county jail | Up to $5,000 plus restitution to injured parties | 1 to 3 years |
DUI with injury – felony | 16 months to 16 years in state prison | $1000-$5000, plus restitution to injured parties | Five years |
Felony DUI (charged when you have 4 or more DUI convictions within a ten year period) | 16 months, two years, or 3 years in state prison | Up to $1,000 | Four years |
If you are facing DUI or DWI charges in the State of California, you should have an experienced criminal defense lawyer by your side advocating for your rights. At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, our Los Angeles DUI Lawyers legal team has years of experience representing individuals charged with drunk driving offenses. Our experienced Los Angeles DUI defense attorneys can represent you in court and may be able to negotiate a favorable plea deal – such as for a “wet reckless” – on your behalf.
In the State of California, it is against the law for anyone to operate a motor vehicle under the following circumstances:
A DUI conviction in the State of California can result in serious penalties that may affect both your personal and work life, as well as your ability to drive. Potential penalties for a California DUI conviction include:
A good criminal defense lawyer on your side during a DUI trial or sentencing hearing can make all the difference. The Los Angeles DUI defense lawyers at The Law Offices of David S. Chesley can advocate for a reduced penalty on your behalf and help to minimize the most serious consequences associated with a criminal DUI conviction.
Los Angeles DUI/DWI lawyer, please call us today at 800-880-6374, or contact us online.