The legal consequences for DUI charges in the state of California are undeniably heavy. We have discussed a few of these in our previous blog posts with emphasis on the jail terms and fines, apart from the suspension or revocation of one’s driving license. Still, it would greatly help if one is adequately informed of the possible penalties to be imposed because this would also enable him to prepare for a proper defense against the same. Naturally, you would do well to seek the legal assistance of an experienced California DUI defense attorney the moment a charge is made. But becoming properly informed will allow you to protect yourself accordingly.

When it’s a first time DUI charge, the following penalties are to be expected, more or less:

  • 3 to 5 years summary probation.
  • Jail term up to a maximum of six months.
  • A three- or nine-month court-approved alcohol and/or drug education program.
  • Fines amounting from $390 to $1,000.
  • Suspension of driver’s license from 6 to 10 months wherein you may be allowed to apply for a restricted license.

Note, however, that these penalties are not fixed and only apply to a standard DUI conviction which basically means, a misdemeanor DUI. In cases where there are aggravating circumstances such as when it’s a hit and run DUI or homicide or manslaughter was committed along with the DUI offense, the penalties will be much graver. Moreover, if the offense will be committed a second, third, or even more times around, there will be enhanced penalties due to the element of “recidivism.” The enhanced penalties usually include longer jail terms, more substantial fines, possible revocation of one’s driver’s license, and longer and more rigid alcohol and drug programs to complete.

If the DUI court deems it necessary, it may also order other miscellaneous penalties which may include forfeiture of the vehicle and the installation of an ignition interlock device on all the vehicles of the offender for a designated period of time. That is why the moment you have been charged for DUI, seek legal assistance ASAP so that you will not serve the harsher penalties and your public driving records will not be stained. A competent DUI defense attorney in California will be able to work for the dismissal of your case or in the worse-case scenario, plea-bargain for less severe penalties to be imposed.