California DUI Penalties: First DUI Offense

Facing your first DUI in Napa, you may want to consult an attorney:

Free Consultations

California laws governing a first DUI offense can be severe. Drinking and driving is the most common way people end up in jail.  While many try to get by with it, you may find yourself on your way to the county jail. If this is the first time you were ever arrested, it can be scary. You have some things you need to attend to if you intend to keep your license and your record clean.  If you don’t care, you can expect a costly driving experience.

Court appearances, DMV Administrative hearings, DUI School, driving restrictions  ( DMV can now decide if a restriction should be issued. SUSPENSION means NO DRIVING, restriction allows SOME DRIVING), SR-22 car insurance, Court probation (3-5 years), Court Fee’s, are things that you will now be familiar with. You can expect some jail time (48 hours) minimum.

If your DUI was enhanced  by speeding, driving with a child in the car, suspended or restricted license, elevated BAC (+.20) you can expect a SIGNIFICANT increase in penalties & punishment.

Did you comply with the chemical test? If not you can expect your license to be suspended from the DMV for one year.

If you are in need of representation for a DUI there are plenty of places to go.  We find that many clients educate themselves on the internet prior to calling. Feel free to ask as many questions as you can think of. We would be happy to help you understand where you sit with your case.