What are the consequences of being charged with a DUI?
Driving under the Influence is always followed by some serious consequences. The worst-case scenario could always be harming somebody on the road, but even if you manage to drive past that, there are other repercussions that you will have to deal with. You must already be aware that DUIs are pretty expensive, can result in you having to pay a fine or do jail time, and could carry a strong social stigma in your background checks, but particulars of the offense can be worse than you might realize.
Things to keep in mind if you are pulled over on suspicion of driving under the influence
If you are ever pulled over by an officer on the suspicion of driving under the influence then you must comply with the following as a driver licence holder:
- Cooperate with the officer;
- Do not lie or hide any information that they ask for. Being intentionally difficult and showing resistance to arrest could cause serious problems for you;
- Under California’s Implied Consent law, you are required to submit to a chemical test if an officer believes you are driving under the influence. That test can be either breath or blood. However, you should be mindful of the fact that unless you are under DUI probation, you are not required to submit to the Field Sobriety Tests that police want you to take before they arrest you. The problem with these tests is that they are designed for failure and will, under virtually all circumstances, only help show your impairment. You should politely, but firmly, refuse to submit to them.
What happens if you are charged with a DUI?
- Your car will usually be towed to an impound lot if it can’t be legally parked in the street, and you will immediately be arrested.
- You will be transferred to the nearest jail and booked for DUI.
- Your mug shot and fingerprints will be taken.
- Even if you can apply for a bail, you might have to stay in jail for a few hours or a night until you are sober.
- You will be provided with the summons to appear in the court before you are discharged.
- You can either plead guilty or not guilty in the court. Alternatively, you can negotiate a plea bargain with the prosecutor for your punishment.
Legal, Financial & Lifestyle Ramifications
- If you have an otherwise clean record and this is your first-time offense, you can expect the following consequences:
- Your driving license will be suspended for up to four months for a first offense and to get it reinstated, you will have to pay different fees to the DMV and provide proof of insurance in the form of an SR-22 as well as show that you have enrolled in an acceptable DUI education program. You will also have to install an Ignition Interlock device in your vehicle for six months.
- You will have to pay a fine amount of anywhere between $390 to $1000 along with the other administrative, court fees and penalty assessments.
- You may have to serve hours of community service, or up to 6 months in jail.
- You will have to attend DUI school and pay for it.
How do you deal with DUI charges?
You would need professional representation from an experienced DUI Iawyer to help you get through the court proceedings and C. Robert Brooks is ready to take on your case.
Contact C. Robert Brooks, Attorney at Law immediately.