In 2022, there are new DUI laws that will take effect in California. These new laws are designed to make the roads safer for everyone and to reduce the number of drunk driving accidents. If you are convicted of a DUI in California, it is important to understand these new laws and how they may affect your case. In this article, we will discuss the five new DUI laws that will take effect in 2022.
What Are The Recent California DUI Laws?
California has some of the strictest DUI laws in the nation. The state legislature and governor are constantly enacting new ways to combat drunk driving. Here are five new California DUI laws in 2022:
1. Conviction Counts On Your Record For A Prior Conviction
Up until now, if you had a prior DUI conviction on your record, the DMV would only count it as one offense. However, starting in 2022, each prior conviction will be counted as a separate offense. This means that if you have two prior DUI convictions on your record, the DMV will treat it as three offenses. This is important because the number of prior DUI convictions on your record is one of the factors that determines how severe your penalties will be if you are convicted of a DUI.
2. Higher BACs Are Now Considered Aggravated Offenses
The legal limit for driving under the influence in California is .08%. However, if you are caught driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .15% or higher, you will be charged with an aggravated DUI. Aggravated DUIs carry more severe penalties than standard DUIs. If you are convicted of an aggravated DUI, you may face up to one year in jail, a fine of up to $1000, and your license may be suspended for up to two years. In addition, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle.
3. You May Be Required To Install An Ignition Interlock Device
An ignition interlock device is a breathalyzer that is installed in your vehicle. To start your car, you must blow into the device and register a BAC below the legal limit. If you are convicted of a DUI, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. The length of time that you will be required to have the device depends on the severity of your offense and whether you have any prior DUI convictions. If this is your first DUI offense you will be required to have the device for six months. For the second DUI offense, it's one year. If you're on your third DUI offense, you will be required to have the device for two years, and for fourth and subsequent DUI offenses, it may be required to have the device for three years.
4. You May Be Required To Complete A DUI Treatment Program
If you are convicted of a DUI, you may be required to complete a DUI treatment program. The length of the program depends on the severity of your offense and whether you have any prior DUI convictions. For first-time offenders, the program is typically three months long. For second-time offenders, the program is six months long. If you're on your third DUI offense, the program may be nine months to twelve months long. Fourth and subsequent offenses may require the completion of an eighteen-month or thirty-month long program.
5. A Minor Under 14 Years Old Who Was In The Car When Someone Is Convicted Of DUI May Be Received Enhanced Punishment
If you are convicted of DUI and there was a minor under the age of 14 in the car at the time of the offense, you may face enhanced penalties. The enhanced penalties may include an increased fine, a mandatory jail time, and your license may be suspended for up to two years.
As you can see, there are a few big changes this year that could affect your life if you're convicted of a DUI. Remember that these are just general guidelines and you should always speak to an attorney if you have specific questions about your case or the law in California. If you have any questions about how these changes might impact you, don't hesitate to give us a call. We would be happy to help you understand how the law works and what kind of penalties you may be facing and will guide you throughout the process.
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With Lynn Gorelick you don't have to face criminal charges alone. You will receive personal attention to your case. Ms. Gorelick will be the one to appear in court with you from beginning to end. Ms. Gorelick, herself, will be doing your DMV hearings. You will not be handed off to another attorney or associate. You deserve this kind of attention to your needs at this stressful time. Ms. Gorelick has represented people charged with DUI for over 38 years. She has NEVER been a prosecutor who pursues convictions. She has only DEFENDED people accused of crimes. Contact us today for your consultation!
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