Navigating the aftermath of a DUI charge in Chula Vista can be overwhelming, as the legal and personal consequences are often severe. From potential license suspension to fines or even jail time, the stakes are high, making it essential to have knowledgeable legal representation by your side. A skilled Chula Vista DUI lawyer understands the intricacies of California DUI laws and can help you build a strong defense tailored to your situation.
With extensive experience in DUI defense, Attorney Pedro Bernal brings a deep understanding of California’s DUI laws and their potential consequences. His background as a former prosecutor provides unique insight into the strategies used by the opposition, enabling him to craft defenses that effectively address these tactics. Whether clients face a first-time DUI charge or more complex criminal allegations, Bernal Law is dedicated to safeguarding their rights and working toward the best possible outcomes.
Understanding California’s DUI Laws
California’s DUI laws are among the strictest in the nation. These laws are designed to deter impaired driving and ensure road safety. They encompass a range of regulations, from blood alcohol concentration limits to penalties for both alcohol and drug-related offenses.
Understanding these statutes is crucial for drivers who have been arrested for a DUI, as a DUI conviction can lead to significant consequences, including license suspension, fines, mandatory education programs, and even jail time.
California’s laws regarding driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol include the following:
- It is illegal to be driving with a blood alcohol content of .08% or greater.
- Driving with a BAC of .04% or higher is illegal if the individual has a commercial driver’s license or is on probation for a previous DUI conviction.
- If the individual is below the age of 21, driving a vehicle with any blood alcohol content is illegal.
- It is unlawful to drive under the influence of drugs, whether they are prescription drugs, over-the-counter medication that impairs one’s ability to drive safely, or illegal narcotics.
- While most DUI charges are misdemeanors, they may become a felony conviction if someone is injured, the accused has a prior felony DUI conviction, or they have three or more prior DUI convictions within the past 10 years.
If you have been accused of driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs in Chula Vista, it is crucial you contact our team of legal professionals to ensure you are able to build a strong defense case. Our DUI lawyer will collect the evidence necessary to represent your rights and interests.
What Are the Legal Consequences for a DUI Charge in Chula Vista?
The penalties you face for a DUI in California may vary greatly depending on the details of your case and your prior criminal history. Some of the legal penalties for different DUI charges include the following:
- First-time DUI penalties: When a person is convicted of driving under the influence in California for the first time, the potential penalties for a first-offense DUI may include up to five years of probation, a maximum of six months in jail, costly fines of $1000 maximum, your attendance at an AB541 class, and you may be required to install IID in your vehicle for six months.
- Second-time DUI penalties: If convicted of a DUI for a second time within 10 years of the first conviction, a person may face up to five years of probation, up to one year in jail, a $1000 fine, attendance at a 30-month DUI school approved by the court, and you may have to install an IID in your vehicle for up to one year.
- Third-time DUI penalties: These penalties may include up to five years of probation, up to a year spent in jail, a maximum fine of $1,000, completion of a 30-month court-approved DUI education program, and IID installation in your vehicle for up to two years.
When you work with our trusted DUI lawyer, he will fight to have your charges reduced or potentially dropped altogether. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help with your DUI defense.
Why Bernal Law Is the Right Choice for Your DUI Defense
A DUI charge can have a lasting impact on your life, but with the right legal representation, you can take control of your case and fight for your future. At Bernal Law, Attorney Pedro Bernal leverages his years as a former prosecutor to provide a distinct advantage to his clients. His deep knowledge of California DUI laws and the strategies used by the opposition allows him to anticipate challenges and craft strong, tailored defenses.
When you choose Bernal Law, you’re working with a legal team committed to personalized representation and comprehensive support throughout the legal process. From challenging evidence to negotiating for reduced charges, Attorney Bernal works tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for your case. Call (619) 736-9092 or contact us through our online form to start building your defense today.