Overview of California DUI Charges
Guidance from a Los Angeles DUI Attorney
Our law firm is experienced with defending driving under the influence charges and has the knowledge of the law as it relates to drunk driving. This knowledge and experience have made representation by our defense attorney invaluable. We have included some important information about DUI as it relates to California law and, most importantly, to you.
DUI Laws in California
DUI (driving under the influence), also sometimes referred to as drunk driving, is the act of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In California, there are two basic drunk driving laws, listed in Vehicle Code sections 23152(a) and (b):
- 23152(a) It is a misdemeanor to drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
- 23152(b) It is a misdemeanor to drive with .08% or more of alcohol in your blood.
Most often, a person charged with driving under the influence will be charged with both offenses. Penalties, however, will typically only be applied for one of the crimes, rather than for both.
What do these offenses mean to you? First, even if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is below the legal limit, you may still be charged with driving under the influence - if your abilities were impaired. Second, if your BAC is .08% or above, you can be charged with DUI regardless of whether your abilities were impaired at all. This is often referred to as a DUI "per se."
Regardless of the specific charges you face, Los Angeles DUI defense lawyer David Diamond may be able to help. His experience in this area and his dedication to his clients gives him an edge both in and out of court, helping you gain the advantage in your case.
Penalties for Driving Under the Influence in LA
In California, most DUI offenses are charged as misdemeanors, where the maximum penalty is 12 months in county jail and a fine of up to $1000. Certain DUI-related crimes, however, are charged as felony offenses where the minimum penalty is 1 year in state prison. Specific charges will be dependent upon your blood alcohol concentration, whether you have prior offenses, and whether anyone was injured.
Some specific penalties for DUI include:
- First DUI offense: (misdemeanor) up to 6 months in county jail; fine of up to $1000.
- DUI causing injury: (felony) up to 3 or 6 years in state prison; possibly a "strike" on criminal record.
- Fourth DUI offense: (felony) up to 3 years in state prison; fine of up to $1000.
To avoid these penalties and others, including license suspension, probation, community service and substance abuse classes, be sure to consult a skilled DUI attorney as soon as possible. An attorney will be able to protect your rights and help you avoid these harsh penalties.
License Suspension and DUI
If you are arrested for DUI, the officer will confiscate your driver's license and give you "notice of suspension" - a temporary license. After your arrest, you have 10 days to contact the DMV and schedule a hearing regarding the suspension of your license. If you fail to do this important step, your license will be automatically suspended - regardless of the outcome of your DUI case.
Your lawyer can represent you at your DMV hearing, helping you keep your license. Your lawyer can also schedule this hearing for you, handling it as he or she will handle every aspect of your case. Our Los Angeles DUI defense law firm is qualified to help you with your DMV hearing and all other aspects of your case. We have the knowledge and resources to be effective and will not stop until we have helped you secure the best outcome possible for your case.
Contact a Los Angeles DUI defense lawyer at the firm today for a free overview of your DUI case.
Client Testimonies
-
I've seen a lot of attorneys throughout my years, and I have to say you're one of the best I've seen.
“I've seen a lot of attorneys throughout my years, and I have to say you're one of the best I've seen. I thought you were organized, you were prepared, you had great arguments, you had a great composure with this jury. Your legal research was spot on.”
- Los Angeles Superior Court Judge, Compton Branch, Robbery-Gang Trial -
Thank you so much for all of your help!
“Thank you so much for all of your help! I hope none of our family has to go through an appeal, but if they do, with great confidence, I would be happy to recommend you! Thank you again!”
- C.M. -
I would like to thank you for your professionalism, dedication and favorable results in my case.
“I would like to thank you for your professionalism, dedication and favorable results in my case. I appreciate knowing and being able to count on your firm. If I ever need your services in another case, I will not hesitate to call you.”
- E. S. -
I am sure glad that I had David Diamond on my side.
“As a peace officer, I never imagined that someone would attempt to serve me with a restraining order, but I am sure glad that I had David Diamond on my side. I cannot thank you enough, David. I would recommend the services of David Diamond to everyone.”
- A.P. -
Dave proved to be not only very competent but also very aggressive on my behalf.
“Great Job, Dave! You will always be my first call... But in fairness, I hope I will never need your services again.”
- Rob P.
Real Results
-
Not Guilty Verdict CA v J.R.
-
Dismissed CA v A.C.
-
Argued Successfully CA v C.V.
-
Motion to Suppress the Stop and Search GRANTED CA v C.M.
-
New Trial Ordered CA v. M.E.
-
Motion to Suppress Evidence, Case Dismissed CA v. M.G
-
Hung Jury One Count Carjacking, Gang Enhancement
-
Reduced to Seven Years Client Facing 3rd Strike (Life in Jail)
-
Reduced to Public Intoxication DUI
-
Reduced to Exhibition of Speed DUI