In every state, a driving under the influence of alcohol and/ or drugs, or DUI, is punishable by jail time. Drivers also may receive probation, license suspension and mandatory DUI education. If a driver is convicted in California, Arizona, Tennessee or Georgia, he won’t always receive any type of mandatory jail time for a first-time DUI conviction. The general penalties for a first time DUI conviction are:
• Suspended license
• Jail time
• DUI School
• Fines
California DUI Penalties
In California, specific DUI penalties vary depending on the county. For example, Los Angeles and Orange County’s mandatory DUI sentencing is mild compared to other counties. Most drivers without a prior criminal record will typically receive the following penalties:
• Fine and penalty assessment fees of about $2,000
• Sentenced to three-month drug/alcohol program
• Sentenced to probation for three years
• Spend one day in a MADD course
In other counties like Riverside or Ventura, a driver is most likely to go to jail for a first-time DUI conviction. In Riverside County, fines and assessments can increase to $2,300. In Venture County. fines may cost a driver an extra $1,000. Other penalties may include work programs and interlock devices.
How will a DUI Conviction Change My Car Insurance Rates?
In many states, a DUI conviction will increase your car insurance rates. If a driver is convicted, he may receive the label of “high risk driver.” This label prompts the car insurance provider to cancel the policy. It can also choose to increase the premiums the driver pays to maintain the car insurance coverage.
Do I Need to Contact an Attorney if Accused of DUI for the First Time?
Yes. A DUI defense attorney can offer valuable advice and guidance during your first-time DUI charge. A lawyer will explain the specific penalties and how a conviction can harm the chances of finding good employment. Your lawyer can also discuss possible defenses to the charge and the likelihood of resolving your matter without a DUI conviction.
If you are arrested for a DUI charge, retain an experienced DUI attorney immediately. At the Law Offices of Jonathan Franklin, you’ll find a dedicated DUI attorney who knows the law and criminal justice system. As a former prosecutor, Jonathan Franklin knows how to successful defend those accused of DUI.
A first time DUI charge can be scary. You don’t know what will happen if convicted. Jonathan Franklin will guide you through the legal process every step of the way. He will also work hard to resolve the legal matter in a favorable way such as getting charges reduced or dropped.
Contact the Law Offices of Jonathan Franklin for a free consultation. He can help you successfully resolve your matter so that you can move on with your life.
