About DUI Sentencing in California

Retain an Experienced DUI Lawyer in Southern California

If you have recently been arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), you will need to hire a competent Southern California DUI lawyer to represent your legal rights and interests. Depending on the charges you are facing, if you are convicted, you could face several DUI penalties. Listed below are some of the basic guidelines for DUI sentencing in the state of California (these are general and may not apply to every case).

For a first-time DUI offense:

• Up to six months in jail
• Possible community service
• 36 – 60 months of probation
• Possible vehicle impoundment
• Up to $1000 fine plus penalty assessments
• Possible court order for ignition interlock device
• Mandatory DUI School for those under 21 and possible DUI school for 3-6 months for adult offenders, depending on BAC level.

For a second DUI offense:

• Up to one year in jail
• 36 – 60 months of probation
• 18 – 30 months of DUI school
• Possible vehicle impoundment
• Up to $1000 fine plus penalty assessments
• Possible court ordered ignition interlock device
• 18 – 30 months of multiple alcohol offender program

For a third DUI offense (within 10 years of 2 prior convictions):

• Mandatory jail sentence of 120 days, but up to one year may be imposed
• 18 – 30 months of multiple alcohol offender program
• Possible court ordered ignition interlock device
• Up to $1000 fine plus penalty assessments
• Possible vehicle impoundment
• 18 – 30 months of DUI school
• 36 – 60 months of probation

The consequences will be elevated if you are convicted of a felony DUI, DUI with injury, or a BAC of .15 or more. The jail time will likely increase and the fines will be much higher. These are just general guidelines though and in order to make a real determination of your situation, you will need to go over the details with your attorney.

Proficient DUI Attorney in Southern California

At the Law Offices of Paul S. Geller, we are intimately familiar with the laws and procedures that pertain to DUI defense and can effectively represent you to try and either avoid or minimize the penalties you are facing. If you need an aggressive attorney to help preserve your livelihood and the well-being of your family, we are prepared to fight for your innocence.