California DUI Penalties

Aggressive Defense Against DUI Charges in California 

DUI penalties can severely hurt the quality of one's life and the brightness of one's future. Over the years, courts have repeatedly been taking DUI offenses more seriously. All 50 states enforce a BAC (blood alcohol content) limit for drivers, the most generally accepted one is 0.08%.

In California, there are standard penalties for DUI offenses, provided that there are no "aggravating factors" presents, such as driving with a child in the car, speeding, driving on a restricted license, accidents, multiple DUI offenses on an offender's record, and an extremely high blood alcohol content (0.20% or over).

Have you been charged with a DUI in California? Call The Law Offices of Kirk Tarman & Associates today at (909) 658-7341 or contact us online to discuss California DUI penalties! 

What are the Penalties for a DUI in California?

If charged with a first-time DUI, an individual is almost always charged with a misdemeanor. Offenders are penalized by carrying out some inconvenient assignments but basically receive a "flick on the wrist" punishment.

The penalties of a first-offense DUI could include:

• Mandatory jail time of 48 hours
• A hefty fine (plus court fees)
• 3-5 years of probation
• 6-month driver's license suspension
• DUI school
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installed for 5 months

As of 2010, in many counties in Southern California, offenders are also required to install an Ignition Interlock Device on their vehicle for 5 months, which does not permit one's car to start unless the driver's BAC level is under 0.08%. All DUI convictions remain on the DMV's records for 10 years.

If you have been charged with a DUI after failing or refusing to perform a field sobriety test, you may be able to appeal your driver's license suspension. You must file your administrative license suspension hearing within 10 days of your arrest. Our DUI defense attorney on Rancho Cucamonga can provide you with the defense and representation your case deserves.

Harshest Penalties for Drunk Driving

If you are charged with a felony DUI or multiple DUI, your penalties will be much harsher. A felony DUI can make it difficult for a person to enter a school or apply for a job, and multiple DUI charges can result in privileges, such as the right to vote or own a gun, being taken away.

DUI penalties are enforced strictly by the courts. It is important that your case receives the attention to detail it needs to be successful. A DUI conviction can have devastating consequences on your future. Our DUI lawyer in San Bernardino can offer the support you need.

How We Can Help Reduce California DI

Our legal team at The Law Offices of Kirk Tarman & Associates understand what it takes to minimize California DUI penalties. We can assess the facts of the case, challenge any evidence that may be used against you, and develop an effective legal strategy that could result in a reduced sentence or even dismissal of charges.

For instance, our firm may discover that there was no probable cause for your arrest and challenge the legality of police procedures. Or we might be able to argue mitigating circumstances such as an emergency vehicle coming up behind you while driving or some other factor which led to your violation.

Additionally, we can negotiate with prosecutors on plea bargains and other alternatives to prosecution. Sentences often involve mandatory alcohol classes or community service instead of jail time, which may be a better outcome for all parties involved. Do not hesitate to let us fight for the best possible outcome of your case.

Contact The Law Offices of Kirk Tarman & Associates today to schedule a consultation and discuss the DUI penalties in California!