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What You Need to Know About a First-Time DUI in California

If you've been charged with a first-time DUI in California, you might be feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about what to expect. California has some of the strictest DUI laws in the country, with harsh penalties and consequences that can affect your personal and professional life. But fear not - this article will guide you through the essential things you need to know about a first-time DUI in California, from how your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is calculated to the consequences of a DUI charge for different types of drivers.

 

 

Understanding how a first DUI in California works is crucial for anyone facing this charge. DUI cases can be complex, and the penalties can vary depending on your BAC level, age, and occupation. In this article, we will explore what a first DUI means in California, how BAC is calculated, and the potential consequences for different types of drivers. Whether you are a young driver or a commercial driver, we will provide you with the information you need to navigate through this difficult time and make informed decisions about your next steps.

 

First DUI In California

 In California, when a person is arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), they can be charged with two separate offenses under Vehicle Code 23152(a) and 23152(b).

Under Vehicle Code 23152(a), it is unlawful for any driver to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This means that if a driver is found to be impaired by alcohol or drugs, even if their BAC is below the legal limit of 0.08%, they can still be charged with DUI.

Under Vehicle Code 23152(b), it is a crime to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level of 0.08% or higher. This means that if a driver's BAC is 0.08% or higher, they can be charged with DUI even if they don't exhibit signs of impairment.

It's also important to note that a person can be charged and convicted of either or both offenses. If a person is charged with both offenses, they may face more severe penalties than if they were charged with only one offense. The penalties for a DUI conviction can include fines, jail time, driver's license suspension, and mandatory alcohol education or treatment programs.

 

How is Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Calculated?

Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is the amount of alcohol present in an individual's bloodstream, and it is usually expressed as a percentage. BAC can be calculated by determining the amount of alcohol present in a sample of the individual's breath or blood.

In California, law enforcement officers typically use a breath testing instrument, commonly known as a breathalyzer, to estimate a person's BAC. The breathalyzer works by measuring the amount of alcohol present in a person's breath and then converting that measurement into an estimated BAC.

If a person is arrested for DUI, they may also be required to submit to a blood test to determine their BAC. Blood tests are considered to be more accurate than breath tests and are often used in cases where a breath test is unavailable or deemed unreliable. A blood sample is drawn and then analyzed using gas chromatography, which separates the various components of the blood sample and measures the amount of alcohol present in the sample.

It's important to note that BAC can be affected by a variety of factors, including a person's weight, gender, and metabolism, as well as the amount of alcohol consumed, the rate at which it was consumed, and the type of beverage consumed. Therefore, BAC calculations are estimates and can be influenced by a range of factors.

 

What If It's Your First DUI and You're Under 21?

In California, if you are under the age of 21 and you are arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), the state has a zero-tolerance policy for any measurable amount of alcohol in your system. This means that if a chemical test reveals any amount of alcohol in your system, you can be charged with DUI, even if your BAC is below the legal limit of 0.08%.

The zero-tolerance law for underage drinking and driving in California is codified under Vehicle Code 23136. Under this law, any driver under the age of 21 who has a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.01% or higher can be subject to a one-year license suspension.

It's important to note that underage DUI charges can have serious consequences, including fines, jail time, and a criminal record. Additionally, a DUI conviction can have long-term impacts on your ability to drive, obtain employment, and secure certain types of housing.

If you are under the age of 21 and have been arrested for DUI, it's important to seek the advice of an experienced DUI attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights, explain the potential consequences of a conviction, and work to develop a defense strategy that protects your interests.

 

What If You're A Commercial Driver With A First California Dui?

If you are a commercial driver in California and you are arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), you are subject to stricter standards than non-commercial drivers. Specifically, commercial drivers are prohibited from driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level of 0.04% or higher, which is half the legal limit for non-commercial drivers in California.

If you are a commercial driver and it's your first DUI in California, you may face severe consequences, including suspension or revocation of your commercial driver's license (CDL), fines, and even jail time. In addition, a DUI conviction on your record can have serious implications for your ability to obtain or maintain employment as a commercial driver.

It's important to note that the consequences for a commercial DUI conviction in California are even more severe for subsequent offenses. For example, if you are convicted of a second DUI as a commercial driver, you may face permanent revocation of your CDL.

If you are a commercial driver who has been arrested for DUI in California, it's important to seek the advice of an experienced DUI attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights, explain the potential consequences of a conviction, and work to develop a defense strategy that protects your interests.

 

Our Final Thoughts

In conclusion, a first-time DUI in California can have serious consequences, regardless of your age or profession. It's essential to understand how your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is calculated and the potential penalties you could face, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. For those under 21, the legal BAC limit is even lower, and penalties can be harsher. 

Additionally, if you're a commercial driver, a first-time DUI can result in the loss of your commercial driver's license, which can have a significant impact on your livelihood. Regardless of your situation, seeking the guidance of an experienced DUI attorney is crucial to ensure that your legal rights are protected and that you receive the best possible outcome in your case. By taking responsibility for your actions and working to minimize the impact of this charge on your life, you can move forward and come out on the other side of this experience with a renewed sense of direction and purpose.

 

 

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 

The materials available on this website are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. You should contact your attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem.  You should not act or refrain from acting on the basis of any content included in this site without seeking legal or other professional advice. The information presented on this website may not reflect the most current legal developments.  No action should be taken in reliance on the information contained on this website and we disclaim all liability in respect to actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the contents of this site to the fullest extent permitted by law.

 

 

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