A DUI is a criminal offense in which a person is charged with driving a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol in excess of the amount set by law. A Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) test is used by law enforcement officers to determine whether a driver is in fact operating a motor vehicle illegally by exceeding the state’s BAC limit. In California, the illegal limit is a BAC of 0.08 and above for most drivers, and 0.01 for most minors.
The penalties and punishments for convictions of a DUI are serious in California. Generally, a first DUI conviction can result in $1,800 of fines, a six month loss of California driver’s license privileges, and mandatory jail time of 48 hours. A second DUI conviction can result in $2,800 of fines, a two year loss of California driver’s license privileges, and a mandatory jail time of 96 hours. A third DUI offense can result in more harsh fines, a three year loss of California driver’s license privileges, and a mandatory jail time of 120 days. A fourth DUI offense is considered a felony DUI, meaning that the convicted, among other fines and penalties, can be incarcerated in state prison. In California, penalties and punishments may increase if there are any “aggravating” factors surrounding the conviction. An example of an “aggravating” factor is driving under the influence while a child is in the motor vehicle or if the convicted is driving with a suspended license.
A driver convicted of a DUI is protected under the Constitution and under state law. The experienced criminal defense attorneys at Doreen Boxer, APD, know how to use these laws to save their clients from the toughest penalties. If you or someone you care about are charged with a DUI offense, or a charge related to DUI, Doreen Boxer attorneys can quickly evaluate your case, and advise you on what to do.
A DUI conviction can cost you a lot of money, your freedom, your job, and can have many other devastating effects on your life. Your life is important: you cannot afford to hire a cut-rate lawyer when your future is at stake. Call Boxer Doreen now for the help you need: (949) 261-2700.