While every case is different, there are some standard penalties that are imposed in most first-time California DUI cases.
In California and across the nation, a DUI is considered a serious crime. With advocacy groups and lawmakers leading the charge, the penalties for DUIs in California have steadily increased — including the recent law that requires the installation of ignition interlock devices for even first time offenders.
Whenever you are convicted of a DUI, you will be facing a wide range of possible consequences. A skilled Santa Ana DUI lawyer can often negotiate with a prosecutor to get a more favorable deal, but this will depend on the specific facts of your case. A more serious incident — such as one involving excessive speed, a child in the car, or where someone gets hurt or killed — will result in more significant penalties, including jail time. The following is an outline of what you can expect to be sentenced to if you are arrested for a DUI and it is your first offense.
Fines and Fees
First and foremost, a DUI conviction can result in some heavy financial penalties. The absolute lowest amount that a judge can sentence a first-time DUI offender to pay is $390. That is the statutory minimum. The maximum is $1,000. Unless there are special circumstances — if your case is more extreme than an average case — you will probably be required to pay $390 for a first offense.
However, the fine is just part of what you will be required to pay. You will also have to pay various penalties and assessments, which can bump the total amount to close to 2,000 dollars. These costs can really add up, particularly when added to the expenses associated with the other consequences of a DUI.
Probation
Probation is a period of supervision after a person is convicted of a crime. It can either be formal (meeting with a probation officer) or informal (completing the terms on your own). In most cases, first-time DUI offenders will be sentenced to three years of informal probation. However, the judge may sentence you to as much as five years of probation. During this time, you will be required to follow the law (including not getting any further DUIs) and complete the terms of your probation, such as attending DUI class, paying all fines and fees and any other conditions that the judge may impose.
DUI School
You will also likely be sentenced to attend classes on drugs and alcohol, which is commonly called DUI school. There are three options for this class for a first-time offender: 3 months, 6 months or 9 months. Most first-time offenders will be sentenced to three months of DUI school, which must be completed to successfully complete the terms of their probation.
Ignition Interlock Device
Under a new law, all DUI offenders in California must install an ignition interlock device in their car — and pay for its installation and maintenance. This device requires a clean breath sample before starting and while driving. It is typically ordered for five months for a first-time offense
Other Penalties
A court also has the discretion to order additional penalties. These may include attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings for a set period of time, going to a Hospital and Morgue program or a Mothers Against Drunk Drivel panel. While rare, a judge may also order you to a term of imprisonment.
If you have been charged with a DUI, it is incredibly important that you have a skilled Santa Ana DUI lawyer to defend you. Contact the Chambers Law Firm today at 714-760-4088 or dchambers@clfca.com. Our firm has years of experience defending clients against DUI charges, and can help you get the best possible outcome for your case.
