Los Angeles DUI Defense - California "Wet Reckless"

In certain instances, individuals arrested on a suspicion of a California DUI may be able to plead to a "wet reckless" (sometimes erroneously referred to as "wet and reckless") and get the DUI charge dismissed. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code Section 23103.5 "wet reckless" is a reckless driving charge, related to alcohol.

Often a wet reckless plea serves as a compromise between a defendant facing a DUI conviction and a prosecution that has a weak case. It is also often used for those individuals with a low blood alcohol content or where your Los Angeles DUI attorney exposed a significant weakness in your drunk driving case. Penalties for a "wet reckless" are lighter than for a DUI and include:

• Informal probation


• Reduced DUI fines


• Reduced hours of DUI education

A "wet reckless" conviction does not carry with it court-ordered mandatory driver's license suspensions. Further, no mandatory jail time exists for drivers charged with repeat offenses that are reduced to a "wet reckless."

It is important to note however, that an alcohol-related reckless driving is a priorable offense. That is. should you be arrested within 10 years of receiving a wet reckless for a repeat California DUI, a wet reckless is treated as a prior conviction. Further, insurance companies treat wet reckless as DUIs for policy purposes. However, a wet reckless is beneficial is such instances as professional licensing, housing, and job applications because it is not considered a "DUI conviction" and need not be disclosed.

Los Angeles DUI Defense Lawyer

If you are detained on any California DUI charge, it is crucial to contact an experienced L.A. DUI attorney at once to start preparing your defense. Where possible, an aggressive drunk driving defense attorney can get your charges dismissed by showing police errors and procedural mistakes. In other instances, the best strategy to avoid a Los Angeles DUI conviction is to plead to a lesser charge such as a wet reckless. At The Chahine Law Firm, we understand the law and can help determine the best strategy to help you.

For more information, or if you have been charged with any California DUI offense, contact The Chahine Law Firm at 1-800-950-7755 for a free consultation.