A DUI is a legal charge that stands for “Driving Under the Influence.” In California, it is unlawful for any person to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. California takes these charges seriously and anyone convicted of a DUI will face serious consequences. If you or a loved one has been accused of a DUI in Temecula, Menifee, or Murrieta, then you must prepare a solid defense. A Riverside County, California criminal lawyer can help defend you against charges of DUI, including first-time and repeat offenses.
What Constitutes a DUI in California
The DUI laws in Temecula, Menifee, and Murrieta are found in the California Vehicle Code § 23152 (2024). California’s DUI statute declares that a person can be considered as legally “under the influence” when the driver’s BAC level reaches a certain amount. The BAC level, or Blood Alcohol Concentration, shows how much alcohol is in the person’s body and will determine if they were legally impaired at the time of the incident. A law enforcement officer can check a suspected drunk driver’s BAC level through a breathalyzer or a blood test. Under California DUI laws, a person is legally driving under the influence when their BAC level measures:
- 0.08% or higher if the driver is over 21 years old.
- 0.01% or higher if the driver is under 21 years old (aka “Zero Tolerance Law”)
- 0.04% or higher if the driver has a commercial driver’s license
- 0.04% or higher if the driver has a passenger for hire, for instance an Uber or taxi driver
Penalties for a DUI in Temecula, Menifee, and Murrieta
Drunk driving is responsible for too many accidents and deaths each year. As drunk driving is extremely dangerous, the penalties for a DUI conviction are severe. This is why it is so important to reach out to a qualified and experienced DUI defense lawyer to help fight your case if you are accused of the offense. California DUI penalties for a 1st time DUI conviction include:
- Jail Time: Up to 6 Months in Jail
- License Suspension: 6-10 months without driver’s license
- Fines: $390 to $1,000
- Alcohol and/or Drug Education Program: 3- or 9-Month
- Probation: 3-5 years of probation
- Community Services: 30 hours or more
Of course, punishments will be even harsher in drivers with subsequent DUI convictions, or in DUIs cases that had accidents resulting in injury and/or death.
A DUI Can Negatively Impact All Aspects of Your Life
Even without a conviction, a DUI can seriously impact all aspects of your life. As the punishments for a DUI conviction are so harsh, you may feel lost, embarrassed, and nervous while awaiting your case. You may have stopped driving or socializing in fear of what might happen. Unfortunately, if you are defending yourself, then you certainly have an uphill battle. However, an experienced defense lawyer in Riverside County, California will be able to help navigate you through this stressful time so you can focus on your personal life, your family, and your health.
A DUI Lawyer Could Make a Big Difference in Your Case
A California DUI defense lawyer can really help your case in a way that you would not be able to do on your own. In some instances, it may be possible for a first time DUI offense to be reduced or even dismissed when the DUI lawyer is able to challenge the evidence. Your legal team may also find other exculpatory information while evaluating your case. Even if the evidence against you seems highly convincing, a criminal defense attorney might be able to help you reach a fair plea bargain that is acceptable to you. As such, you do not want to be without legal counsel.
The Law Office of Nicolai Cocis Will Fight for You
If you or a loved one are currently facing DUI charges in Temecula, Menifee, or Murrieta, then you will want the best California criminal defense lawyer on your side. The Law Office of Nicolai Cocis, located near the Southwest Justice Center in Murrieta, California has the DUI attorneys you can trust to represent your case. With over 25 years of experience, we are the criminal defense law firm that has the knowledge and resources to create a strong strategy and defend your rights. Contact our top-rated Temecula DUI lawyers today to schedule a free consultation!
