Temecula DUI Attorney

Possible penalties you could be facing include:

• Up to 6 months in jail
• Monetary fines from $390-$1,000
• License suspension
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
• Alcohol education and treatment (3-9 months)
• Vehicle confiscation

The state of California upholds the automatic suspension of your driver license if you are caught drinking with a 0.01 BAC percentage while on probation or if you refuse to take a BAC test. Our Temecula DUI attorney can help fight your charges with the goal of lowering your penalties. Let us defend you.

• Related: What is a "Wet Reckless" in California?

2nd DUI in California

For a second DUI in California within a ten-year period, you can face more serious penalties.

Possible penalties for a 2^nd DUI in California include:

• 96 hours to 1 year in jail
• A $390 to $1,000 fine
• 2-year license suspension
• 12 month ignition interlock device (IID) requirement

3rd DUI in California

For a third DUI in California within a ten-year period, you can face more serious penalties.

Possible penalties for a 3rd DUI in California include:

• Up to 1 year in jail
• A $390 to $1,000 fine
• 3-year license suspension
• Possible 2 years with an ignition interlock device (IID) requirement
• 30 months of DUI school

License Suspensions in California for DUI

If you are convicted of a DUI, you will face driver’s license suspension.

Possible license suspension periods are:

• First Offense – 6 months
• Second Offense – 2 years
• Third Offense – 3 years

Restricted Licenses and Ignition Interlock Devices

If your driver’s license is suspended due to a DUI conviction, you may be eligible for a “restricted license.” This allows you to drive to vital locations such as work or school. If you use a restricted license you will also be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID).

The ignition interlock device requirements are:

• First Offense - Six months (or 12 months with a restricted license)
• Second Offense – 12 months
• Third Offense – 24 months

You may complete your IID requirement as part of a restricted license or after your driver's license is reinstated.

How Does a DUI Charge Affect Employment?

A DUI charge can have significant implications for employment, both in the short and long term. Many employers conduct background checks as part of their hiring process, and a DUI conviction may raise concerns about reliability, judgment, and responsibility. This is particularly true for positions that involve driving, such as delivery drivers or commercial vehicle operators. A DUI conviction may result in the suspension or revocation of a commercial driver’s license (CDL), which can lead to job loss or make it difficult to secure employment in similar fields.

Additionally, certain professional licenses, such as those in healthcare, education, and law, may be jeopardized by a DUI conviction. Licensing boards often require professionals to disclose criminal convictions, which may result in disciplinary actions or even the revocation of the license. Furthermore, individuals working in industries that require security clearances may face challenges retaining or renewing their clearances, as a DUI can be seen as a red flag for potential employers in sensitive fields.

For those who are currently employed, a DUI conviction could affect workplace dynamics. Some employers have policies that require employees to report criminal convictions, and failure to do so may result in termination. In competitive job markets, a DUI conviction can make it more difficult to stand out as a qualified candidate, limiting future employment opportunities. Legal guidance is crucial to mitigate the impact of a DUI charge on one’s career.

Contact us to speak with our DUI lawyer in Temecula by calling (951) 221-4331 today!

Implied Consent in California

According to California’s implied consent law, all drivers are required to agree to take a breath or blood test if pulled over on suspicion of driving under the influence. If you refuse testing, your driver’s license could be suspended for one to three years.

Is a DUI a Felony in California?

In California, a DUI can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances of the offense. A first or second DUI offense is usually charged as a misdemeanor, while a third or subsequent DUI offense, or a DUI causing injury or death, may be charged as a felony.
In addition, if the driver has prior felony DUI convictions or has been convicted of vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, any subsequent DUI offense may also be charged as a felony.

Penalties for a DUI conviction in California can be severe, even if it is charged as a misdemeanor. These penalties can include fines, license suspension or revocation, mandatory DUI classes, or even jail time, depending on the circumstances of the offense.

Local Temecula Resources for DUI Offenders

If you or someone you know has been charged with a DUI in Temecula, California, there are several local resources available to provide support, education, and guidance throughout the process. These resources can help you navigate the legal system, address any alcohol-related issues, and make positive changes in your life.

Here are some local resources for DUI offenders in Temecula:

• Temecula Valley DUI Resource Center: The Temecula Valley DUI Resource Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing education, prevention, and support services to individuals impacted by DUI offenses. They offer DUI education programs, counseling services, support groups, and assistance with legal matters related to DUI charges.
• Riverside County Alcohol and Drug Programs: Riverside County offers various alcohol and drug programs that can be beneficial for individuals facing DUI charges. These programs provide education, treatment, and counseling services to help individuals address alcohol-related issues and make positive changes in their lives. They can be a valuable resource for DUI offenders seeking support and rehabilitation.
• MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving): MADD is a nationwide organization that works to raise awareness about the dangers of drunk driving and supports victims of DUI-related incidents. They provide resources, advocacy, and support services to individuals impacted by drunk driving, including DUI offenders. MADD offers victim impact panels, educational programs, and support groups that can be beneficial for DUI offenders seeking to understand the consequences of their actions and make positive changes.
• Substance Abuse Treatment Centers: If you believe you have an alcohol or substance abuse problem that contributed to your DUI offense, seeking treatment at a local substance abuse treatment center may be beneficial. These centers offer various programs, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, to help individuals overcome addiction and maintain sobriety. Your attorney or local resources can provide recommendations for reputable treatment centers in the Temecula area.
• Local Support Groups: Participating in support groups can be valuable for individuals facing DUI charges. These groups provide a supportive environment where you can share experiences, learn from others, and work towards personal growth and positive change. Organizations such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and SMART Recovery have local meetings in Temecula where individuals struggling with alcohol-related issues can find support and encouragement.