Can an attorney lower penalties for a California DUI charge?

Answer:

The State of California has some of the harshest laws regarding motorists who are charged with driving under the influence (DUI). New laws went into affect in July 2010 in Alameda, Los Angeles, Sacramento and Tulare counties for individuals convicted of a DUI. First-time offenders with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .15 or higher will be required to install an ignition interlock device into any vehicle that they drive. A CA DUI attorney may be able to get the charges reduced or dropped by successfully challenging the accuracy of the chemical test. Breathalyzer machines are often inaccurately calibrated, resulting in a higher BAC level. Certain types of medical conditions can cause an incorrect reading.

DUI Penalties in the Golden State

Any driver that is convicted of a DUI will face mandatory jail time, unless a CA DUI attorney can get the charges reduced. It may be possible to plead to a lesser charge of “wet reckless”, resulting in a shorter jail sentence, a lower fine and no mandatory license suspension. The probation time is also shortened to a period of one to two years.

California DUI Offense	Jail Time Imposed	Amount of Fine	License Suspension
First Conviction	4 Days to 6 Months	$1,400 to $1,800	Up to 6 Months
Second Conviction	90 Days to 1 Year	$1,800 to $2,500	Up to 2 Years
Third Conviction	120 Days to 1 Year	$1,800 to $2,800	Up to 3 Years

In addition to the above penalties, drivers will have to complete a DUI program and obtain SR22 insurance as proof of financial responsibility.

Obtain Help For a Strong Legal Defense

The laws in California require any individual that is convicted of a fourth DUI offense within ten years to be charged with a felony offense. The District Attorney can bring felony charges if the individual causes serious injury or the death of another person. To be successful in getting the charges reduced will require a skilled and experienced attorney. If you have been arrested on suspected DUI charges, contact a lawyer immediately for assistance with your case.

References:

California DUI Lawyers and Laws

Get Informed: DUI and Driving Laws

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