What are the DUI laws in California for a first offense?

The DUI laws in California set specific penalties based on whether or not you have any prior offenses. There may also be other aggravating factors that will make the penalties worse, such as if you get into an accident at the time of the DUI or if you have an open container of alcohol in the vehicle with you when the DUI occurs. 

As a general matter, however, the potential penalties for a first DUI offense in California include:

• Anywhere between 4 days and six months of jail time
• A fine ranging from between $1000 to $1600
• A suspension of your license for a six month period
• A mandated DUI program
• A requirement that you have SR22 insurance when you are able to get a restricted license back. 

In addition, after the term of your license suspension, you may need to have an ignition interlock system put on your vehicle which will test your BAC prior to allowing you to start your vehicle. These penalties are, of course, for a standard first DUI- if there are aggravating circumstances, then there may be more jail time, larger fines or other additional consequences. 

Because the consequences are very serious, it is in your best interests to hire a lawyer if you are ever charged with a DUI. An attorney can assist you in exploring your options, based on the circumstances. Your lawyer can then advise you on whether a plea bargain may be an option, or on whether you can potentially raise one of the DUI defenses, like a rising BAC defense or a lack of probable cause defense.