When it comes to drunk driving (DUI), the state of California takes no chances. It is well known for its severe DUI punishments, which can include fines, time in jail, DUI school that must be completed, community service, a license suspension, and/or probation. A DUI conviction may also result in the revocation of a professional license and other repercussions, such as increased insurance premiums.
Due to the seriousness of these repercussions, it is crucial that you retain the services of the top DUI attorney available. A renowned DUI defense attorney can fully research the allegations against you and vigorously defend you to create a plan for the best outcome. Keep reading to learn about the potential for jailtime after a second DUI conviction. Then contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 to request a legal consultation.
A first DUI conviction can result in jail time but it is rare
In California, a first-time DUI charge normally does not result in jail time, however it is conceivable, depending on the situation. For instance, if the DUI results in physical harm or death, the prosecutor may prosecute the DUI as a felony, and the offender may receive a jail or even state prison sentence in California.
The standard penalties for a first DUI violation in California, however, include a fine of at least $390 plus fees of over $1,800; a 48-hour jail sentence or a 90-day license restriction; a three-month alcohol education program; community service; and/or probation. The severity of these penalties can vary greatly depending on the type of DUI violation you committed, and they usually go up if you had a particularly high blood alcohol content (BAC) or if additional circumstances were present, such having a child in the car at the time.
You are much more likely to spend time in jail for a second DUI conviction
DUI crimes in California have a 10-year “look back” period. It will be regarded as a second DUI if you are convicted of a second alcohol-related offense within ten years of your first DUI (or a related offense, such as a wet reckless conviction). There is a strong chance you will spend at least 10 days in jail if you are found guilty of a second DUI.
Additionally, you won’t be able to apply for a limited license during the year that your license is suspended. The additional penalties for a California DUI, such as increased fines, additional community service requirements, and lengthened attendance in alcohol education courses, will still be in effect. Similar to first-time DUI charges, you may be subject to even harsher punishments if there are any mitigating circumstances, such as if someone was injured as a result of your drunk driving.
There are defense options to DUI charges
It may be challenging to refute a second DUI accusation, especially if your BAC was high at the time of your arrest. Repeat DUI offenders often face more harsh prosecution because prosecutors see them as a threat to other drivers’ safety. Repeat offenders frequently receive harsher punishment from judges. This is why it’s crucial to work with a DUI defense lawyer with experience.
Even though there may not always be a way to completely escape the repercussions of a second DUI, an experienced attorney may be able to aggressively explore opportunities to have the charges dropped or reduced based on the particulars of the case.
Our team of committed attorneys at the Chambers Law Firm has years of experience helping clients who have been accused of DUIs. Formerly a prosecutor, Dan E. Chambers is now a highly accomplished DUI defense lawyer. To arrange a free initial consultation, get in touch with our office at 714-760-4088 or dchambers@clfca.com right now.
