While DUI conviction can have severe consequences, there may be ways to avoid or reduce the consequences. Contacting a Dublin DUI lawyer may be the most effective way to fight back against drunk driving charges and preserve your future.
From finding holes in the prosecution’s evidence to exposing any violation of your constitutional rights, legal advice and counsel can be crucial to a favorable outcome in your case. En Español.
California law establishes different potential penalties for first-time DUI convictions versus subsequent convictions. A previous arrest counts as a prior arrest if it occurred within the past ten years. Therefore, if a defendant is facing a second DUI charge within ten years of the first, they will face the harsher penalties associated with a second DUI offense, but if ten years have passed, they will face first-time DUI penalties. Although a first-time DUI is a misdemeanor charge, it still can result in severe penalties.
The minimum penalties for a first-time DUI charge may include:
This list is not exhaustive and the consequences can increase if there are enhancements such as speeding, underage drinking, minor in the vehicle, or high blood alcohol. For instance, a high blood alcohol enhancement can result in a lengthier DUI school such as nine months rather than three months.
Additional penalties for a first-time DUI include paying for the impoundment of the vehicle driven for 30 days and the installation and maintenance of an ignition interlock device on their cars after a conviction. A DUI lawyer in Dublin could help minimize the penalties for a first-time DUI conviction to the greatest extent possible.
For a second DUI conviction, the minimum jail sentence increases to 96 hours, and the maximum jail sentence and license suspension increases to one year. Individuals will also face an additional two years of restricted driving, meaning that they can drive back and forth only to work and alcohol treatment. A second DUI conviction also requires completion of a long-term alcohol treatment program for 18 or 30 months, which can be costly. Ignition interlock device installation is mandatory after a second offense.
Third DUI offenses can result in a minimum of 120 days in jail and for fourth offenses, a minimum of 180 days. Individuals will have their licenses revoked for three years for a third offense and four years for a fourth offense. Completion of a 30-month alcohol treatment program is necessary for individuals ever to regain driving privileges. Fourth DUI offenses can be charged as felonies.
Defendants may also face periods of probation, restricted driving, impoundment of their vehicles for 90 days, or the total forfeiture of their vehicles. Due to the potential severity of the sanctions, a defendant may wish to retain the advice of a criminal defense attorney when facing repeated DUI offenses.
Even if no defense permits an outright dismissal, there may still be defenses that could cause the prosecutor to drop or reduce the charges against. A Dublin DUI lawyer may be able to help raise the appropriate defenses in the case and work toward an outcome that is in the client’s best interest.
As DUI cases can move quickly, both through the administrative license suspension process and the criminal justice system, it is important to contact legal counsel right away. A skilled attorney will be familiar with the legal defenses to DUI allegations. By contacting legal representation, the chances for reaching a favorable resolution increase.
The Nieves Law Firm is dedicated to providing aggressive criminal defense representation to working professionals who have found themselves in trouble with the law. We show up to win, and we’re not afraid to fight aggressively to accomplish our client’s goals.
We understand that being accused of a crime can be a scary and confusing experience. That’s why we take the stress off our clients by handling the full scope of their legal situation from the initial consultation to the final outcome. Our bilingual attorneys and staff are here to ensure that our clients feel heard and understood every step of the way.
As one of the largest criminal defense teams in Oakland and the Greater Bay Area, we have the resources and experience to handle even the most complex cases. Our experienced team examines various aspects of your case and, perhaps most importantly, we genuinely care about our clients and their future. We take the time to learn about their goals and priorities so that we can achieve an outcome that allows them to move past their mistakes and focus on the future they want. When you work with us, you become part of our team.
Our skilled criminal defense attorneys have experience handling a wide range of criminal cases. With a deep understanding of the legal system and a track record of successful cases, our lawyers are committed to achieving the best possible outcome in your case.
When facing a criminal charge, having dedicated and experienced attorneys on your side is critical. At The Nieves Law Firm, we understand the gravity of your situation, and our criminal defense attorneys provide unwavering support and legal guidance.
From the moment you reach out to us, we prioritize your well-being and legal interests. Our criminal lawyers are with you every step of the way, from arrest to hearings and beyond, to ensure that your rights are protected. Whether you’re facing charges related to DUI, drug offenses, assault, sex crimes or any other allegation, we have the knowledge and courtroom experience to fight vigorously on your behalf.
We believe in the power of collaboration and will actively involve you in the decision-making process, ensuring you are well-informed and empowered to make the best choices for your defense. Our goal is not only to navigate the legal complexities but also to provide you with the peace of mind and reassurance you deserve during this challenging time.
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