If you have been arrested for a DUI in California, it is important to know what steps you need to take to protect your future. A DUI conviction can have serious consequences, including jail time, fines, and a driver's license suspension. In this blog post, we will discuss the 5 things you need to do after getting a DUI in California.
What Is DUI?
DUI stands for driving under the influence. In California, it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. If you are caught driving with a BAC of 0.08% or higher, you can be arrested and charged with DUI.
What Are The Penalties For DUI In California?
The penalties for DUI in California can be severe. If you are convicted of DUI, you may face jail time, fines, and a driver's license suspension. The specific penalties you face will depend on the facts of your case, but a conviction can have serious consequences.
What Are The Steps You Need To Take After Getting A DUI In California?
If you have been arrested for a DUI in California, there are a few steps you need to take to protect your future. Here are the five things you need to do after getting a DUI in California:
1. Contact A DUI Attorney
If you have been arrested for a DUI, it is important to contact an experienced DUI attorney. An attorney can help you understand the charges against you and the potential penalties you face. An attorney can also help you build a defense to the charges and protect your rights.
DUI attorneys are familiar with the laws and procedures related to DUI cases, and they can help you navigate the legal system. If you have been arrested for a DUI, do not hesitate to contact an experienced DUI attorney.
DUI laws are complex, and the consequences of a conviction can be severe. An experienced DUI attorney can help you understand the charges against you and protect your rights.
2. Request A Hearing
If you have been arrested for a DUI, you have the right to request a hearing with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). At the hearing, you can contest the suspension of your driver's license. It is important to request a hearing within ten days of your arrest, or your driver's license will be automatically suspended.
An attorney can help you prepare for the hearing and present your case to the DMV. If you win the hearing, your driver's license will not be suspended. If you lose the hearing, your driver's license will be suspended, but you may be eligible for a restricted license. The cost of hiring an attorney to represent you at the hearing is typically worth it, as an attorney can help you win your case and keep your driver's license.
3. Complete An Alcohol Education Program
If you are convicted of DUI, you will be required to complete an alcohol education program. The program must be approved by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). After you complete the program, you will be issued a certificate of completion.
The cost of the alcohol education program will depend on the specific program you choose. However, the cost is typically worth it, as the program can help you avoid a DUI conviction in the future.
Completing an alcohol education program is one of the conditions of probation for a DUI conviction. If you do not complete the program, you may be sentenced to jail time. An attorney can help you understand the requirements of the alcohol education program and choose a program that is right for you.
4. Install An Ignition Interlock Device
If you are convicted of DUI, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle. The IID is a breathalyzer that prevents a vehicle from starting if the driver has been drinking.
The cost of installing an IID will vary depending on the specific device you choose. However, the cost is typically worth it, as the IID can help you avoid a DUI conviction in the future. Installing an IID is one of the conditions of probation for a DUI conviction. If you do not install the device, you may be sentenced to jail time.
5. Get SR-22 Insurance
If you are convicted of DUI, you will be required to get SR-22 insurance. SR-22 insurance is a type of insurance that shows the DMV that you are financially responsible for your vehicle.
The cost of SR-22 insurance will vary depending on the specific insurer you choose. However, the cost is typically worth it, as SR-22 insurance can help you avoid a DUI conviction in the future. Getting SR-22 insurance is one of the conditions of probation for a DUI conviction. If you do not get insurance, you may be sentenced to jail time.
If you've been arrested for a DUI in California, the first thing you need to do is contact a DUI attorney. They can help guide you through the process and protect your rights. Next, request a hearing so you can challenge the suspension of your license. After that, it's important to complete an alcohol education program and install an ignition interlock device. Finally, make sure you have SR-22 insurance to prove you have adequate car insurance coverage. We understand this may seem daunting, but our team is here to help. Give us a call today for more information or visit our website for more resources on how to handle a DUI conviction.
Do You Need a DUI Lawyer You Can Trust?
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!
Disclaimer
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