Driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while intoxicated (DWI) are criminal offenses and can have wide-ranging consequences to a person’s life and employment, such as jail time, years of probation, license suspension or revocation, and costly fines and fees. The law imposes harsh penalties upon drunk drivers but you have certain fundamental rights that a criminal defense attorney will help you understand and defend. If you have been arrested for a DUI contact the Law Office of Samuel Lasser for a free consultation.
If you hire us we will carefully review the facts of your case and explore all avenues of defense to safeguard your rights and ensure a fair result. We can also handle the related Dept. of Motor Vehicles (DMV) hearings in attempt to save your license from being suspended or revoked or to minimize the consequences.
California DUI Penalties
Drivers age 21 or older who have a .08 percent blood alcohol content (BAC) or greater may be charged with misdemeanor DUI and face the following penalties if convicted:
- First offense — minimum 48 hours in jail, up to a six-month driver’s license suspension, fines between $390 and $1,000, a $125 license reissue fee, court fees/fines, and alcohol program attendance;
- Second offense within 10 years — minimum 96 hours in jail, up to a one-year driver’s license suspension, fines between $390 and $1,000, a $125 license reissue fee, court fees/fines, alcohol program attendance for 18 to 30 months, ignition interlock device (IID).
If you cause an injury, or if it is your fourth DUI offense or a second felony DUI, you can be charged with a felony. For a further explanation of DUI laws and punishments visit the California DMV website: http://www.dmv.ca.gov/dl/driversafety/
If you are arrested for or charged with a DUI call the Law Office of Samuel Lasser at 415.373.4000 now for a free confidential consultation.
The Law Office of Samuel Lasser can also handle the DMV proceedings and hearings regarding the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license following your arrest for DUI or DWI. Act quick and call now to start defending your case.