DUI Outcomes Explained

Moving on after a DUI conviction can be difficult. DUI outcomes aren't easy, nor is the experience of being arrested for a DUI easy to forget. But countless others have been in your shoes and have moved on with their lives. Among the many consequences of a DUI are jail time, fines, alcohol education classes, probation, and a suspended license. You could also be ordered to go through substance abuse treatment or do community service. Penalties for California DUIs are some of the most severe in the country. The good news is you're not alone. DUI arrests are actually very common in California.

Here are some tips to help you deal with DUI outcomes in California.

Make Sure You Understand Your Penalties

Following a DUI, you could face three years of probation. Make sure you understand and follow the conditions of your probation. Also, don't drive with a suspended license, and make sure you complete your alcohol education classes on time. These simple steps can help prevent rearrests or a lengthier probation.

Get a Restricted License

Typically, you can request a restricted license after serving 30 days of your suspension. You can drive to work or school on a restricted license. Speak with an experienced California DUI attorney about the process for obtaining a restricted license. It is well worth your time and effort if you are eligible.

Ongoing DUI Outcomes

If you are convicted of a DUI, you need to be careful when driving. A second DUI conviction will result in even harsher penalties. Subsequent DUIs can even be charged as felonies. Only drive sober and within the limits of your restricted license. Also, avoid traffic violations or accidents of any kind, as those will add more points to your driving record, which could result in a longer license suspension. Keep an eye on your driving points and make sure you drive carefully and safely after your DUI.

Shop Around for Insurance

After a DUI, your auto insurance can skyrocket and remain elevated for several years. Your rates could easily double with just one DUI conviction. This is one of the more expensive DUI outcomes. You will have to provide the DMV with an SR-22 filing, submitted by your insurer. Insurance with a California SR-22 filing can be very expensive, so shop around for the best rates. You might have to switch insurers, but it's worth it to save money over the course of three years.

If You Are Arrested a Second Time

In some cases, a good attorney can have a prior DUI conviction reduced to a lesser charge or stricken altogether if you are facing your second DUI charges. If successful, you will face the same penalties you did on your first DUI, which can make a world of difference.

Invest in a Portable Personal Breathalyzer

You can find them online for less than $50. Some are small enough to fit on your keychain. DUI repeat offenders are very common, which is why the penalties for a second DUI are so severe. After your license suspension ends and you are back to feeling comfortable on the road, it can be easy to make another costly mistake. Get a personal breathalyzer to keep in your car to make sure you never put yourself in a position where you could be arrested again.

Find a Good Attorney

California DUI arrests are common because law enforcement is strict and the State has a large number of funds dedicated to catching drunk drivers. No matter what you do after your DUI conviction, make sure you connect with a good DUI defense attorney and keep his or her number with you at all times. It helps to know what to do in advance, especially if you made a mistake the first time around and didn't get an attorney. It's also reassuring knowing you have a Visalia criminal defense attorney you can call if you are ever arrested again. Typically, the sooner you call an attorney after a DUI arrest, the better chance you have of beating your charges.

If you are facing DUI charges, take action before it's too late. Contact attorney Christopher Martens and his legal team for help in Tulare, Fresno, or Kings County. Experienced in DUI defense, our Visalia area legal team can explain your charges and help you get the outcome you want. Attorney Martens has over ten years experience in criminal defense and won't be afraid to take your case all the way to trial. Call our Visalia or Hanford, CA offices at 559-967-7386 or email us at [email protected] for a free consultation.