First DUI Offense in California

Posted by Alan Finkel on December 13th, 2023

If you've been arrested for the first time for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you're undoubtedly wondering what the penalties are for a first offense DUI. Unfortunately, even a first-time drunk driving conviction can have major consequences in your life. It's critical to know what to expect so you can grasp the fines you could face and your legal choices.

What Are the Repercussions of a First DUI?

The penalties for a first DUI arrest vary depending on a number of criteria, including where you live, how high your BAC was, and whether there were any extenuating circumstances that exacerbated the issue, such as driving with a child in the car at the time of the event.

The following are some of the possible penalties.

Probation or Jail?

For first-time DUI offenders, jail time is a possibility, albeit not everyone faces it. Many people are sentenced to probation rather than jail. If your BAC was above a specific threshold, such as.10, you are more likely to face jail time for a first offense.

Suspension of License

After your first DUI offense, your license will almost certainly be suspended. In fact, in many situations, an administrative or automatic license suspension may be imposed as soon as you are arrested for impaired driving and even before you face a full criminal prosecution.

You may be able to appeal the license suspension or argue for a restricted license, which would allow you to drive to work or take your children to school.

Ignition Interlock System

You may be compelled to have an ignition interlock device installed on your car in exchange for the return of your license. This is a particular equipment that checks your blood alcohol content (BAC) before you start the car and at regular intervals while you drive.

Counseling or Treatment for Drugs and Alcohol

Following a first DUI charge, you may be compelled to undertake drug or alcohol counseling or treatment. Depending on the circumstances of your situation, this could entail inpatient or outpatient treatment, counseling, individual or group therapy, or a range of other interventions.

Penalties and Fees

As part of the consequences for a first offense DUI, you will almost certainly be required to pay fines and costs. These fines and fees might go into the hundreds or thousands of dollars.

Contact An Attorney for Your Case

A first-time DUI is a serious criminal offense. You need an expert drunk driving lawyer to represent you and fight for you to escape the short-term and long-term ramifications of a DUI conviction. Your attorney will walk you through every step of your case to ensure that you get the best possible result for your individual scenario.

If you or someone you know has been charged with driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, we invite you to contact our DUI defense attorneys for a free consultation.

Call us or fill out the form on this page to speak with one of our knowledgeable California DUI attorneys.