San Francisco DUI Penalties to Expect

San Francisco DUI Penalties to Expect

When you are facing a DUI charge in the state of California, the consequences that can occur may not only affect you in the near future, but they can have an impact on the rest of your life. A conviction and a criminal record may affect your employment possibilities and even your insurance rates. You never want to drive while intoxicated, but if you do make that fateful mistake, your best offense is a good defense and an experienced San Francisco DUI attorney can provide just that.

First time DUI offenders in California can expect to pay a fine of up to $1,500 if convicted. If this is a second or third offense in under 10 years, the fines can be much higher, depending on the jurisdiction are arrested and tried in. First time offenders can also lose their drivers’ license for up to six months and may be required to attend a state-approved DUI education course for three months. The prospect of jail time also looms, with a minimum sentence of four days and a maximum sentence of six months. With such dire consequences, it is imperative that you have a good DUI attorney in San Francisco on your side to help you receive minimum penalties rather than maximum. Many San Francisco DUI lawyers know the ins and outs of DUI courts, as well as judges’ preferences and habits and can plan your defense accordingly.

The penalties for DUI charges can be even more harsh if there were other circumstances. These other circumstances are known as enhancement and whether you are a first time offender or not, the penalties can be devastating. If you were speeding at a rate of 20 MPH over the limit on street roads and 30 MPH over the limit on the highway, your penalties may be more severe as well. If you had a minor under the age of 14 years old in the passenger of the vehicle when arrested, then you can face a higher fine, a longer license suspension and more jail time. For those who have been convicted of a DUI two times or more over the last decade, and fall under these categories, a conviction can change the entire course of that person’s life.

A DUI charge is not a laughing matter, and neither is getting behind the wheel of a car when you shouldn’t. But, it should not destroy your life. If you are facing high fines and jail time for allegedly driving under the influence, call a DUI lawyer in San Francisco today for an excellent defense.

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