Caught drinking and driving? Talk to a California DUI lawyer.
If you've been pulled over for a DUI, a California DUI lawyer can help you understand your rights and decide what to do next. You may have heard that the California DUI laws require mandatory jail time for a first offense and be wondering whether there's any way to avoid imprisonment. Below you'll find some basics of California DUI law and penalties that you might face. For more information, get in contact with a California DUI lawyer in your area.
California DUI Penalties
First-time DUI conviction =
- Mandatory jail sentence of at least 96 hours;
- fine of at least $390; and
- driver's license suspension for six months.
Second-time DUI conviction (within 10 years) =
- Mandatory jail sentence of at least 90 days;
- fine of at least $390; and
- driver's license suspension for two years.
Can You Refuse a Breath Test?
- NO
Breath Test Refusal Penalties
- 1st refusal = 1-year revocation of driver's license
- 2nd refusal within 10 years = 2-year revocation
- 3rd refusal within 10 days = 3-year revocation
California DUI Resources
- Read a summary as well as the complete California legal code on DUI at our California DUI laws page.
- For more on updates to California DUI law, check out our DUI legislation news and articles section.
- Unsure of some terms involved in your DUI case? Read our DUI legal glossary.
Know your rights before your court date
You may be able to fight your DUI charge under California law. Call us toll-free at 1 (877) 349-1311 or fill out our free DUI case evaluation form. Your information will be kept confidential, and you'll hear from a California DUI attorney who can evaluate your case and advise you of your rights before you have to act. The decisions you make today could have a lifelong impact. Make sure you understand what's at stake and explore any possible weaknesses in your case with a California DUI lawyer before you make any decisions.
Note: DUI laws may have changed since our last update. For the latest information on these DUI laws, speak to a DUI lawyer in the state.