Those convicted of California DUIs face potentially serious penalties including, but not limited to, imprisonment, fines, driver’s license revocation and suspension, mandatory ignition interlock devices, and community service.

Judges have strict guidelines governing the factors they must weigh when issuing sentences for DUI convictions. These factors include the existence of any aggravating circumstances such as previous DUIs, the refusal to submit to a blood alcohol content test, having a blood alcohol content twice the legal limit or higher, or driving while under the influence with a minor younger than 14 in the car. Where aggravating factors exist, penalties for DUI may be more severe.

Those charged with DUIs face potentially serious penalties that may significantly affect your life and your future. If you’ve been charged with a California DUI, it is critical to contact an experienced DUI attorney as soon a possible to evaluate your case. A skilled lawyer may be able to work with prosecutors to reduce or even eliminate DUI charges.

The following is a list of current penalties for DUI Offenses:

DUI 1st Offense

• Up to six months in jail
• Fines of $390 to $1000
• Six-month license suspension
• Completion of a Driving Under the Influence Program
• Installation of an Ignition Interlock Device
• Requirement of California Insurance Required for Restricted License

DUI 2nd Offense

• Up to one year in jail
• Fines of $390 to $1000
• Two-year license suspension
• May apply for a restricted driver license
• Completion of a Driving Under the Influence Program
• Installation of an Ignition Interlock Device
• Requirement of California Insurance Required for Restricted License

DUI 3rd Offense

• Up to one year in jail
• Fines of $390 to $1000
• Three-year license suspension
• May apply for a restricted driver license after one year
• Designation as a habitual offender
• Completion of a Driving Under the Influence Program
• Installation of an Ignition Interlock Device
• Requirement of California Insurance Required for Restricted License

DUI 4th Offense

• Up to one year in jail
• Fines of $390 to $1000
• Four-year license suspension
• May apply for a restricted driver license after one year
• Designation as a habitual offender
• Completion of a Driving Under the Influence Program
• Installation of an Ignition Interlock Device
• Requirement of California Insurance Required for Restricted License

Southern California DUI Defense Attorneys

The Chahine Law Firm has helped countless clients fight California DUI charges. With years of trial and litigation experience, the attorneys at The Chahine Law Firm have the skill and legal expertise it takes to successfully contest their clients’ DUI charges. Whether you are a first time offender or a multiple DUI offender, you can be assured that the attorneys at The Chahine Law Firm will put every effort into helping you avoid a criminal conviction. For more information or to find how our Los Angeles DUI Lawyers can help, contact the attorneys at The Chahine Law Firm at 1-800-950-7755 for a free consultation.