DUI law is multifaceted and complicated. California DUI attorneys may help individuals navigate and understand DUI law and advise individuals through various legal processes. If you’re an individual attempting to navigate DUI classification, penalties, repercussions, civil and criminal compensatory action, or any other legal matters related to DUI law, a California DUI attorney can help.

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Her Lawyer connects individuals in need of legal help with qualified attorneys based on their location, legal matter, and preferences. We can connect you with the right DUI lawyer in California, including:

• Los Angeles
• San Diego
• San Jose
• San Francisco
• Fresno

How Does the State of California Define Driving Under the Influence?

In California, it is illegal to drive or have control of any vehicle under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or any other intoxicating compound.

The California Vehicle Code defines driving under the influence as driving or being in control of a vehicle while an individual:

• Has a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or more,
• Has a blood alcohol concentration of .04 or more and is driving a commercial vehicle,
• Has a blood alcohol concentration of .04 or more with a “passenger for hire” in the vehicle,
• Has a blood alcohol concentration of .01 or more and is under the age of 21,
• Has a blood alcohol concentration of .01 or more and is on probation for a previous DUI,
• Is under the influence of alcohol,
• Is under the influence of any drug or combination of drugs inhibiting driving ability and safety,
• Is under any combination of alcoholic beverage or drug,
• Is addicted to the use of any drug and not in a narcotic treatment program.

What is the punishment for driving under the influence in California?

California state law outlines all DUI court penalties and sentencing procedures under California Vehicle Code Sections 23536 to 23552.

The punishment for a first-time DUI offense is up to six months in prison, fines up to $1000, and license revocation for a minimum of four months. Additionally, California courts require 3 or 9 months of DUI school and a maximum of five years of probation.

With each subsequent DUI conviction, penalties will increase in severity. After four or more convictions, judges may sentence repeat offenders to a felony and a maximum of 3 years in prison and permanent license revocation. Additionally, judges require an ignition interlock system for repeat offenders’ vehicles and 30 months of DUI school for offenders with 3 or more DUI convictions.

Does California penalize individuals for refusing a police officer-requested blood alcohol content (BAC) test in California?

Yes, in California all drivers automatically give implied consent for police officer-requested blood alcohol content tests. If a driver refuses a legitimate request for a BAC test, including blood or urine tests, courts will automatically suspend the driver’s license. California courts may suspend the driver’s license for a period of one to three years.

What is an ignition interlock system?

An ignition interlock device (IID) is a preventative measure to reduce DUI incidence. Ignition interlock systems require drivers to breathalyze before starting their car. If the driver does not breathalyze or the breathalyzer reveals alcohol in the driver’s blood, the driver cannot start the vehicle. California law requires an ignition interlock system for repeat DUI offenders and first-time offenders who caused an injury. California law requires an ignition interlock device for a period of one to four years, depending on the number and severity of previous DUI convictions.

Do courts always consider a DUI a misdemeanor?

No, in some cases California courts will consider a DUI a felony.

California law classifies a DUI as a felony if the offender:

• Injures someone while driving under the influence,
• Has a previous DUI felony conviction, or
• Has a minimum of three previous DUI or wet reckless convictions within the past 10 years.

How Can a California DUI Attorney Help Me?

A California DUI attorney may assist women in all aspects of DUI law. California DUI attorneys can navigate their clients through legal inquiries regarding DUI classification, penalties, repercussions, civil and criminal compensatory action, and all other legal matters related to DUI law. DUI attorneys in California may also provide legal counsel through criminal and civil proceedings to ensure a desirable and appropriate outcome.

Free Consultation With a California DUI Attorney

If you’re a female attempting to navigate DUI law and need a lawyer, get your free consultation with one of our California DUI attorneys today! We’re here to help 24/7.