DUI is one of the most common misdemeanor offenses in California. It can also have the harshest impact, carrying penalties far worse than other typical misdemeanors such as vandalism and petty theft. Even if you avoid jail, by law, if you are granted probation in a misdemeanor DUI case you will be on probation for at least three (3) years. For second or subsequent offenses, it can be five (5) years. Other common misdemeanor cases carry a maximum probation period of only one (1) year.
The DMV will suspend your license, your insurance carrier will raise your premiums, and it could be difficult to get certain kinds of jobs with a DUI on your record. Some countries make it very difficult to get a travel visa with a DUI on your record. You may have to get a restricted license or install a special device, called an Interlock (or breathalyzer) in your car.
In addition to the probation, which carries additional conditions you must adhere to for the entire period, there are also mandatory alcohol and drivers safety classes you must complete. The shortest first-offender class is 3 months long and costs hundreds of dollars. If your blood alcohol level was higher, you will have to complete a 6 or 9 month class. Repeat offenders will be required to complete an 18 month class.
You will be required to pay a fine that is at least $1800. There may be additional classes such as the MADD Victim Impact Panel or the Hospital and Morgue class.
Some estimates place the total cost of a DUI (including attorney fees, court fines, insurance premium increases, and classes) at $10,000.00 – if you are facing a DUI in Los Angeles or Ventura County, you need a DMV and DUI expert to avoid the worst penalties. Prosecutors and judges are extremely strict on these kinds of offenses.
How Can Farris Law Firm Help?
In California, DUIs are not eligible for diversion programs. Any DUI client will be facing the choice between taking a deal or going to trial – there is no third option. Full dismissals of DUIs are very rare in Los Angeles and Ventura, as prosecuting agencies such as the District Attorney’s office have hard-line policies against dismissing DUIs.
Charles Farris has handled DUI cases in California for years and at one time worked for one of the highest-rated DUI law firms in southern California. He has been incredibly successful at getting reductions, good deal terms, and even dismissals for his clients facing DUIs.
Finally, you always have the option of going to trial. Farris Law Firm will fight your case out in open court, in front of a jury, and hold the prosecutor to their burden. The prosecutor must prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, every element of an offense before you can be convicted and sentenced.
Your attorney at Farris Law Firm knows the ins and outs of this part of our legal system and can help you at every step of the way with your DUI case.