Defending Your License Against DUI Charges
In California, driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious criminal offense that can result in significant penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and suspension or revocation of your driver’s license. The Law Office of Ari S. Lieberman can help defend you against your charges and explain the details of your case to you.
Under California law, it is illegal to drive a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. The penalties for a DUI conviction in California can vary depending on several factors, including whether it is a first offense or a subsequent offense, the level of impairment and any aggravating circumstances, such as causing an accident or injury.
The Consequences Of A Conviction
Some of the potential penalties for a DUI conviction in California include:
1. Fines: The fines for a DUI conviction in California can range from several hundred dollars up to thousands of dollars.
2. Imprisonment: Depending on the severity of the offense, a DUI conviction can result in up to six months to several years in jail or state prison.
3. License suspension: A DUI conviction in California can result in the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license. The length of the suspension can vary depending on the number of prior DUI convictions.
4. Mandatory alcohol education or treatment: A DUI conviction can also result in mandatory enrollment in an alcohol education or treatment program.
5. Ignition interlock device: Depending on the circumstances of the case, a DUI conviction may require the installation of an ignition interlock device on the offender’s vehicle.
After a DUI arrest, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will automatically initiate administrative proceedings to suspend your driver’s license. It is important to note that the DMV administrative hearing is separate from any criminal proceedings in court.
Your Rights To A Hearing
You have the right to request a DMV administrative hearing within ten days of your arrest to challenge the suspension. At the hearing, you and your DUI defense lawyer can present evidence and argue your case to try to prevent your license from being suspended.
If you request a DMV administrative hearing, your license suspension will be delayed until after the hearing. If you do not request a hearing, your license will automatically be suspended after 10 days from the date of your arrest.
If you lose your DMV administrative hearing, your driver’s license will be suspended for a period of time, depending on the circumstances of your case. For a first-time DUI offense, the DMV can suspend your license for four months, and longer for subsequent offenses. However, you may be eligible for a restricted license that allows you to drive to and from work or school during the suspension period.
Choose Skilled DUI Representation
If you are facing charges for a DUI in California, it is crucial to have an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side who can provide effective legal representation and protect your rights. DUI defense attorney Ari S. Lieberman has the knowledge and experience necessary to handle these complex cases and will work tirelessly to achieve the most favorable outcome for your case. Contact him today to schedule a free consultation by calling 619-984-1654.