Driving under the influence (DUI) can lead to severe consequences so it is important to know your rights if this has happened to you.
But what are California’s DUI laws?
What to do when facing DUI charges
In the Golden State, anyone who operates a vehicle with a blood-alcohol content, or BAC, higher than 0.08% is considered to be under the influence. However, even if your BAC is lower than this, an officer of the law may still place you under arrest for suspicion of driving drunk, provided they have a valid reason. Note that certain categories of drivers face a lower BAC limit than 0.08% too.
If you have been charged with a DUI for the first time, it will likely be considered a misdemeanor. This means that you will probably not face any jail time but the consequences can include a license suspension, probation and heavy fines if found guilty.
The best thing to do under these circumstances is to understand what you are facing and take control of the situation, preferably with legal guidance.
Mitigating factors
There are mitigating factors that can lessen the punishment for a first-time DUI. For example, if you do not have a previous criminal record, the punishment you might face could be lighter. However, bear in mind that if you already have multiple DUIs, the possible outcome can be much harsher.
Legal assistance can go a long way if you are facing a DUI while also making you aware of your options in this situation.