After a person is stopped for a DUI in Los Angeles County, law enforcement officials and prosecutors determine the charges to file based on the circumstances surrounding each DUI arrest. The charges and potential penalties stemming from a California driving under the influence vary depending on many circumstances, including the age of the driver, blood alcohol level at the time of the arrest and whether the person has any prior DUIs. Factors such as prior convictions, high BACs and DUIs with minors under 14 in the vehicle are considered “aggravating factors” and increase the severity of penalties. Likewise, if a Los Angeles DUI accident causes an injury, or even a wrongful death, penalties are substantial, and include the possibility of significant fines and jail time.

In addition to civil and criminal penalties, the DMV may impose separate drivers’ license suspensions and restrictions for those arrested for DUIs.

Under California’s “Zero Tolerance” laws, drivers under 21 face prolonged DMV license restrictions and suspensions.