If you are arrested for drunk driving or driving under the influence in California, you may be asking yourself if you need to hire a DUI attorney or criminal defense lawyer. The fact is you don’t. However, you may want to hire a lawyer that specializes in traffic violations including DUI offenses because it could mean the difference between a conviction and a dismissal or reduction of the charges against you.
Whatever you do, you need to understand that this is a serious offense that may have consequences other than a criminal record. If you don’t know what the potential consequences are then you should, at a minimum, speak to an attorney who offers a free initial consultation. Sacramento DUI lawyers are professionals that are licensed to defend people like you throughout California.
First DUI Offense in California
- 1st Drunk Driving Conviction
- Jail – From 96 Hours to 6 Months
- Fine – From $390 to $1000
- License Suspension – 6 Months
- Must Complete a Driving Under the Influence Program
- May Be Ordered to Install Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
- Must Provide Proof of Financial Responsibility for Reinstatement
Second DUI Offense in California
- 2nd Drunk Driving Conviction (Within 10 Years of Previous)
- Jail – 90 Days to 1 Year
- Fine – From $390 to $1000
- License Suspension – 2 Years
- May Apply for Restricted Driver License (IID Required)
- Must Complete a Driving Under the Influence Program
- Must Provide Proof of Financial Responsibility for Reinstatement
Third DUI Offense in California
- 3rd Drunk Driving Conviction (Within 10 Years of Previous)
- Jail – 120 Days to 1 Year
- Fine – From $390 to $1000
- License Suspension – 3 Years
- You Receive a Designation as a Habitual Offender (This is not a good thing)
- May Apply for Restricted Driver License after 1 Year
- Ignition Interlock Device Required
- Must Complete a Driving Under the Influence Program
- Must Provide Proof of Financial Responsibility for Reinstatement
Fourth DUI Offense in California
- 4th Drunk Driving Conviction(Within 10 Years of Previous)
- Jail or Prison– 180 Days to 1 Year
- Fine – From $390 to $1000
- License Suspension – 4 Years
- May Apply for Restricted Driver License after 1 Year
- Ignition Interlock Device Required
- Must Complete a Driving Under the Influence Program
- Must Provide Proof of Financial Responsibility for Reinstatement