What Takes Place in California If You Get A DUI for the First Time?
It is quite normal to be concerned about the potential consequences of a first-time DUI charge. To find out what consequences you might be facing for your first DUI in California, it is advisable to consult with an experienced, competitive, and skilled DUI defense attorney.
What Takes Place upon Receiving Your First DUI?
It is challenging to navigate the criminal justice system in California. As a result, you must speak with an experienced DUI attorney as soon as possible following your apprehension and before your court appearance. Your rights can be fiercely defended by a skilled Los Angeles DUI Lawyer, starting with your initial court appearance.
Through discovery, the prosecution will provide information about your case to your attorney. The discovery procedure necessitates the disclosure of police records, accident reports, arrest reports, booking sheets, details of 911 calls, chemical test findings, dash-cam films, body-cam videos, and expert witness testimonies. You and your lawyer can then determine the best course of action for your case.
Negotiating a specific disposition that gets you out of jail is sometimes the best defense. Even if this is your first offense, many prosecutors are hesitant to drop DUI charges unless there is a very good reason.
Probability of Jail Time
A person found guilty of a first-offense DUI faces a minimum of 96 hours in jail, with 48 hours to be spent consecutively, as per the California Vehicle Code. Six months in jail is the maximum sentence. In addition, the court will suspend your driver’s license and impose a fine ranging from $390 to $1,000.
However, the statute does not require jail time. Judges have the power to sentence you to probation rather than jail time if they choose. You are required to participate in programs like A.A. and MADD’s Victim Impact Program while on probation. The court will impose penalties and fees, mandate that you follow all rules, and prohibit you from operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.
