Most Los Angeles and San Bernardino DUI charges are classified as misdemeanors. However, there are particular circumstances where a DUI charge will be escalated and classified as a felony. Felony DUI cases are increasingly complex and the penalties associated with a conviction are severe. DUI with injury, a fourth DUI offense and vehicular homicide may all be classified as felony offenses. In California, a felony offense is punishable by a minimum of 1 year in state prison. In addition to this, you will face fines, probation, counseling and the loss of your driver's license.

Felony DUI Penalties

If you are convicted of a felony DUI, the court could impose severe penalties. The following are standard penalties which may be enforced for a felony DUI conviction:

Fourth DUI Offense:

• Driver’s license suspension: 4 years
• Probation: up to 5 years
• State prison sentence: up to 3 years

DUI with Injury:

• State prison sentence: up to 3 years
• With great bodily injury: up to 6 years in prison
• Strike under California’s Three Strikes Law

Vehicular Manslaughter:

• Felony DUI manslaughter: up to 4 years in state prison
• With gross negligence: up to 10 years in state prison

Los Angeles and San Bernardino Felony DUI Defense Lawyers

If you have been charged with driving under the influence in Los Angeles or San Bernardino Counties, you will need to hire an attorney who can protect your constitutional rights and defend you both in and out of court. At The Chahine Law Firm, our experienced DUI attorneys have helped countless clients throughout Los Angeles County and surrounding areas fight their DUI charges. We are skilled attorneys who strive to provide each of our clients with exceptional legal representation and advice. Contact us today at (800) 950-7755 for a free case evaluation.