DUI is much more severe than every other traffic infraction. If you’re speeding, the process is simple: you’re stopped by a law enforcement officer and receive a fine. Unfortunately, that’s not the case with DUI. Because it is considered a major criminal offense, you will be arrested on the spot and face penalties that will increase if you caused a car crash, property damage, or injury to another citizen.
What’s next after being charged with a DUI?
This is prosecuted as a misdemeanor as long as property damages or injured victims were not involved. After being arrested, you may:
– Receive 48 hours to six months of jail time
– Pay up to $1,000 in fines depending on the case
– Endure three to five years of probation if the prison sentence is waived. You will attend alcohol education classes for three to nine months and comply with any other requirements imposed by the judge.
– Get your license suspended for up to six months
– Face an administrative suspension from the DMV if the blood alcohol concentration was .08% or more
– Apply for a restricted license with a mandatory ignition interlock device connected to the vehicle which prevents the car from starting if alcohol is detected in your breath
What’s at stake?
First and foremost, your money. Attending alcohol education classes (DUI school) and the installation of the ignition interlock device is not free. This can cost you thousands of dollars if you include the fines associated with the offense.
Do I have any options?
A lot of convicts miss the opportunity of avoiding prison and getting probation instead because they attempted to solve the case without proper representation. You may also have the charges dropped, but keep in mind that these scenarios are possible if you seek assistance from an attorney. Not doing so will result in a punishment longer than necessary.
At Zarabi Law in Los Angeles, we have years of experience managing complex DUI cases and negotiating with prosecutors to help our clients get back on the road as soon as possible. Schedule a consultation today with Elliot Zarabi to secure the best possible outcome.
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