A DUI conviction can carry varied penalties depending on the circumstances of the case. Felony DUI and DUI with injury, in particular, can lead to serious consequences, including extended prison sentences. Continue reading to learn more about these two types of charges. If you require a free legal consultation with a Los Angeles DUI lawyer, reach out to Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088.
Implications of a DUI with Injury Conviction
A DUI with injury charge is considered a “wobbler”, implying it could be classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the arrest circumstances and the defendant’s criminal history.
When a DUI case involves an injury to anyone other than the driver, it can be categorized as misdemeanor DUI with injury. Penalties can encompass up to five years of summary probation, five days to a year in county jail, fines reaching $5,000, and up to 30 months in an alcohol program.
Misdemeanor convictions also mandate the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for six months to facilitate unrestricted driving. Alternatively, a one-year license suspension and compensation to all injured parties may apply.
Felony DUI with injury convictions, on the other hand, can result in prison sentences ranging from 16 months to ten years, depending on the number of victims and the severity of their injuries. This could also qualify as a strike under California’s three-strikes law.
Additional penalties include fines up to $5,000, up to 30 months in a drug and/or alcohol program, Habitual Traffic Offender status for up to three years, IID installation for up to three years, and compensation to all injured parties.
Penalties for Felony DUI
Felony DUI charges typically apply when an individual has four or more DUIs within a ten-year period. Consequences can include up to three years in state prison, fines up to $1,000, mandatory IID installation for at least one year, and being labelled as a Habitual Traffic Offender by the Department of Motor Vehicles.
In cases where the DUI results in a fatality, the penalties could escalate, potentially leading to a life sentence and a strike on the offender’s record.
Enlist the Support of a Los Angeles DUI Lawyer
If you face a DUI charge in California, contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 for a free legal consultation. As a leading Los Angeles DUI lawyer, we are committed to understanding your situation and fiercely advocating for your rights. Call us today, and let us assist you.
