If you were recently arrested for driving under the influence, you’re probably wondering what comes next. The fear of jail time can be overwhelming, especially if this is your first encounter with the legal system. While every case is unique, and the outcome depends on many factors, there are some general truths that apply to most first-time offenses. Continue reading and reach out to a seasoned Contra Costa County DUI lawyer to learn about the penalties you may face for a first offense. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What Are the Penalties for a First-Offense DUI in California?
In California, a first-offense driving under the influence charge is typically considered a misdemeanor, unless certain aggravating factors are present, such as an accident involving injury or having a child in the car. Even so, the penalties are serious.
A person convicted of a first-offense DUI may face up to six months in county jail. However, in many cases, especially where no one was hurt and the driver’s blood alcohol concentration was close to the legal limit, actual jail time is rare. Instead, courts often impose probation, fines, mandatory DUI education programs, and license suspension.
It’s also important to understand that the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has its own administrative process, separate from the criminal court system. The DMV can suspend your driver’s license even if you are not convicted in court, which adds another layer of complexity to these cases.
Do People Actually Go to Jail for a First DUI?
Technically, yes, jail time is a possibility. But in practice, many first-time offenders do not end up serving time behind bars. Judges often recognize that first offenses can be a result of poor judgment rather than malicious intent, especially when there is no accident or injury involved.
If you’re convicted, the judge has discretion in sentencing. That means one person might get a few days in jail, while another might receive probation and community service. The details of your case, such as how high your blood alcohol content was or whether you cooperated with law enforcement, will influence the outcome.
Sometimes, alternative sentencing options are available. These may include electronic monitoring, alcohol education programs, or work release programs in lieu of actual incarceration. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you understand these options and fight for the least restrictive outcome.
Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney?
Absolutely. Even for a first-time offense, the consequences of a driving under the influence conviction can be long-lasting. A driving under the influence conviction can impact your employment, insurance rates, driving privileges, and personal reputation. Legal representation can make a significant difference in how your case is resolved.
If you have additional questions or you’ve been charged with driving under the influence and require the services of a seasoned criminal defense lawyer, simply contact O’Connor Law APC for a free consultation today.
