California DUI Law FAQs
FACT: DUI charges were brought against more than 1.3 million drivers in 2007 in this country, almost 190,000 in California alone.
FACT: In California when you are arrested for drunk driving you face two distinct proceedings with two distinct agencies: the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and the Superior Court of the county where the arrest occurred.
FACT: A DUI comes with two charges:
1. Driving Under the Influence: Aside from blood or breath tests the cops must have observed you doing something inconsistent with sobriety while driving.
2. Driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) over 0.08—usually a very technical issue
FACT: Conviction of a DUI in California (or a second one in more than 10 years) results in the following:
- Fine of $1500
- 2 days in county jail – however, you can do SWAP (community service such as picking up garbage) instead of jail time.
- Attendance at an DUI three month course, two hour classes once a week—called the First Offender Program (FOP)
- License restriction concurrent with a DMV suspension
FACT: Each case is different.
FACT; Each case requires a thorough investigation for a successful defense.
FACT: Each case requires an experienced lawyer to help you make the right choices.
|
