Individuals arrested for California DUIs who have an out-of-state drivers license are subject to a slightly different DUI procedure than California residents. Out-of-state drivers are allowed to maintain their licenses, but receive notice that at the end of 30 days, their California driving privileges will be suspended. Similar to California license holders, out-of-state drivers have 10 days to schedule a hearing with the DMV. Scheduling an administrative hearing prolongs the time before a license will be suspended. Typically, the California DMV alerts the out-of-state driver’s state of the disciplinary action. If a California conviction occurs, the home state may suspend the driver’s license as well.

California takes part in the “Driver’s License Compact” – an arrangement between most states to disclose an individual’s driving information. When a DMV or DUI violation occurs in one state, the home state applies the applicable penalties. Thus, even though a violation occurs in California, your home state penalties such as fines, license suspensions and points apply.

In many cases, if you’ve been charged with a misdemeanor DUI while visiting California, its possible for an experienced Southern California DUI defense attorney to represent you without you being present for all court hearings. However, if your case is held over for trial, it’s best to attend. Juries are more sympathetic to defendants they see in person. Also, it is a good idea to attend your pre-trial hearing if your testimony is necessary to disprove the prosecution’s case. Where it is difficult to return to California, we will strive to limit your need to appear in court.

Southern California DUI Defense Attorneys

If you or a loved one is a non-California resident that was charged with DUI in Los Angeles, Orange County, Riverside of San Bernardino, its critical to contact an experienced DUI attorney at once. An attorney from The Chahine Law Firm can protect your rights, inform you of your legal options, investigate the conditions of your arrest, and question law enforcement and witnesses. Contact us immediately for a free consultation at 1-800-950-7755 if you or a loved one has been arrested for a DUI in Southern California.