What are the penalties for a DUI in California for a first time offense?

California DUI penalties and statutes are strict, and even a first offense can be costly.  A first offense carries stiff penalties including:

• Three to five years of court probation;
• Fines and court fees of $1,400 to $1,800;
• 6 month loss of license;
• DUI school 12 to 48 hours; and,
• Mandatory jail time.

Additionally, it will be up to the Department of Motor Vehicles whether a restricted license will be issue to a first time offender.  If it is allowed, an interlock device will be required in the vehicle. Jail time for a first offense is mandatory, and at least 48 hours must be served.  The judge will have the discretion to convert that jail time to work service. California DUIs are criminal offenses which will remain on your criminal record forever unless you or your attorney can convince a judge to expunge that record.

Furthermore, as of 1 July 2010, if the first offense is committed in Alameda, Los Angeles, Tulare or Sacramento counties and results in a conviction, the ignition interlock device will be mandatory for a period of 5 months – 12 months if an injury was involved.  This is presently a pilot program which will expand statewide if it proves successful.

The second offense DUI within 10 years will require a 2 year loss of license and the DUI School will have to be attended for 18 months.  If you have been arrested for a DUI in California, you will want to contact an experienced DUI attorney for assistance.