San Diego Consequences of a DUI Conviction
Fighting for More Than Just an Acquittal
California lawmakers take a hard stance on driving under the influence (DUI), but they are not the only ones who do so. Many employers and licensing boards take a harsh stance on convictions as well. When you face serious consequences that affect every aspect of your life, you need a DUI defense lawyer with the experience and knowledge to protect you.
When your future is on the line, turn to The Law Offices of Casey & Angelos. We have a well-earned reputation for success in cases where our clients’ futures are on the line. Although any DUI conviction can have a negative impact on your employment, some DUI convictions directly impact a client’s professional licensure and livelihood. If you are in this situation, a conviction could cost you your career and everything you have worked so hard to achieve. Attorney G. Cole Casey has over 20 years of experience and only takes challenging cases when he knows he can make a big difference in someone’s future.
Criminal & Administrative Penalties for DUI in California
If you are facing your first, second or third offense of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs within 10 years, you may be charged with a misdemeanor. Misdemeanor charges carry the following criminal and administrative penalties:
- Up to one year in jail
- Three to five years of probation
- Fines ranging from $1,600 to $2,300
- License suspension from six months to one year
- Possible installation of an ignition interlock device
- Possible DUI program lasting three to six months
Various situations can enhance your penalties, such as having a child in the car or having a particularly high blood alcohol concentration (BAC). You could face a felony charge if any of the following apply:
- You caused an accident that resulted in an injury or death.
- You were convicted of a felony DUI in the past.
- You have three or more prior DUI offenses within 10 years.
Penalties for felonies depend heavily on the facts of the case. They can include prison time, fines, mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device and losing your license for several years.
Guarding Your Professional Career from DUI Consequences
You have worked hard for your career, and you would be surprised at how quickly everything you have worked for can come undone due to a DUI conviction. When you hold a professional license or security clearance, your livelihood depends on keeping those things in good standing. Examples of professionals we represent include:
- Doctors and nurses
- Lawyers and judges
- Pilots and commercial license holders
- CEOs and high-profile individuals
- Athletes and entertainers
- Military personnel and civilian employees with security clearance
We understand the importance of not just your career, but also your legacy and your future. We will fight to protect all of these and mitigate the impact of your charges. Our goal is always obtaining a dismissal or an acquittal, but if that is not possible, we will attempt to reduce your charges and avoid an impact on your livelihood.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation Today
Find out whether we are the right advocates for you by scheduling a free initial consultation. You can call our San Diego office at (619) 930-5490 or send us a confidential email.
Understanding DUI Consequences in San Diego: Local Insights and Resources
In San Diego, the repercussions of a DUI conviction extend beyond legal penalties; they can significantly impact your daily life and career. With the bustling economy and diverse job market in areas like Downtown San Diego and La Jolla, a DUI can jeopardize your employment opportunities, especially in fields that require professional licenses, such as healthcare, law, and aviation. Local employers often conduct thorough background checks, and a DUI on your record can hinder your chances of securing a job or promotion.
San Diego County offers various resources for those facing DUI charges, including the San Diego County Public Defender's Office, which provides legal assistance to eligible individuals. Additionally, the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has specific guidelines and processes for contesting license suspensions, which can be crucial for maintaining your driving privileges in a city where public transportation options may be limited.
We understand that navigating the legal landscape can be overwhelming, especially when you are concerned about the potential impact on your career and personal life. The stress of a DUI charge can be compounded by the fear of losing your job or facing disciplinary action from licensing boards. Our team is here to help you address these pain points by providing personalized legal strategies that aim to protect your rights and future.
Whether you are a healthcare professional in Hillcrest, a business executive in Mission Valley, or a military personnel stationed at Naval Base San Diego, we recognize the unique challenges you face. Our goal is to mitigate the impact of your charges and help you move forward with your life. Contact us today to discuss your situation and explore your options.
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AWARDS & ASSOCIATIONS
Since the establishment of this law firm in 1998, we have strived to provide our clients with the highest quality representation and a level of customer service that is unparalleled by any firm anywhere.
Our FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 619-930-5490 today!
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I was not drunk. Can I be charged with DUI for smoking marijuana or taking prescription medications?If you were arrested for DUI but didn’t have alcohol in your system, you can still be charged with DUI. There are a number different charges associated with misdemeanor and felony DUI. You can be charged with an (f) count if you consumed any intoxicating drugs, regardless of whether they are illegal or prescription. But, if you were under the influence of both alcohol and drugs, then you can be charged with an (e) count for driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
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Aren’t the police supposed to read me my Miranda rights?It seems like common sense that an officer must read you your Miranda rights. Although this is true in a situation where you are being interrogated, for purposes of DUI, you don’t have that same right. Many times an officer will ask you questions prior to administering field sobriety tests and placing you under arrest. These questions have been classified as “pre-investigatory” questions and are not subject to Miranda. Therefore, it is important you speak with an experience DUI Defense Firm to know whether or not the failure to read you your rights will affect your case.
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I was involved in an accident and someone was injured. Will I be charged with a Felony?Maybe. You can be charged with Felony DUI whenever anyone other than yourself is injured. Even if the injuries were to a friend and their injuries are minor, you can still be charged with a felony. Penalties for a Felony DUI can be severe because your can face time in prison.