Understanding DUI Charges in California

Driving under the influence (DUI) charges in California are serious offenses with potentially life-altering consequences. This guide explains what you need to know if you're facing DUI charges in California.

What Constitutes a DUI in California?

In California, you can be charged with a DUI for:

Driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher
Driving while under the influence of any drug (legal or illegal)
Driving with a BAC of 0.01% or higher if you're under 21
Driving with a BAC of 0.04% or higher if you're driving commercial vehicles

Penalties for DUI Convictions

First Offense

Fines: $390 to $1,000 plus penalty assessments
License suspension: 6 months
Possible jail time: 48 hours to 6 months
Mandatory DUI school: 3 months

Repeat Offenses

Penalties increase significantly with each subsequent offense within 10 years.

Common Defense Strategies

Several defense strategies may be applicable in your case:

Challenging the traffic stop: Was there reasonable suspicion?
Testing procedures: Were breathalyzer or blood tests properly administered?
Rising BAC defense: Your BAC may have been below the limit while driving but rose afterward

What To Do If Charged

If you've been charged with a DUI:

Don't make statements to police without an attorney present
Document everything you remember about the arrest
Contact an experienced DUI attorney immediately

How Our Firm Can Help

At the Law Offices of Chris Noriega, we specialize in defending clients against DUI charges. Our approach includes:

Thorough investigation of all evidence
Challenging testing procedures and results
Negotiating for reduced charges when appropriate
Aggressive courtroom representation