CALIFORNIA CRIMINAL LAWYERS

What Are the Possible DUI Charges?

Understanding DUI Charges: Factors Considered and Potential Consequences

Introduction

A DUI charge is not just about getting pulled over and ticketed for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It can be more complicated than that. When a driver is suspected of driving under the influence, the district attorney examines the case and decides on the type of charge to file. Factors considered when deciding on the charges include past convictions, how severe the offense is, and the level of intoxication at the time of the arrest. This article will examine the elements that need to be present to prove a DUI charge, situations when it can be difficult to prove a DUI charge, typical charges, and potential consequences of a DUI charge.

Proving a DUI Charge

In most states, swerving on the road or causing an accident and the presence of alcohol on the person when the vehicle is stopped are elements that need to be present to prove a DUI charge. A noticeable aroma of a substance in the vehicle or on the person can also be considered. However, it is not always necessary to display poor driving skills to be charged with a DUI. If a person’s blood alcohol level is in the illegal range, they can be charged with a DUI even if they are driving well. It can be harder to prove a DUI charge when the person is asleep in the car or has recently consumed the substance. Charges are filed based on witness accounts or the conditions of how the person was arrested.

Typical Charges and Potential Consequences

If a person does not have prior convictions and there aren’t any other substances involved except alcohol, they may have the charges dismissed or receive probation instead of going to jail. In some cases, they may only need to attend alcohol education classes or perform community service. However, if there are past charges or multiple substances involved, the charges can become more severe. The type of charge can be affected by elevated blood alcohol content. If there are children in the vehicle, charges can increase. If the driver is involved in an accident causing injuries or deaths, the charges can be even more severe, such as involuntary manslaughter. The consequences of a DUI charge can be severe, including license revocation and imprisonment. Hiring a DUI attorney can help mitigate the impact.

DUI Charges: Factors Considered

Table 1: Factors Considered in DUI Charges

| Factors Considered |
| — |
| Prior convictions |
| Severity of the offense |
| Level of intoxication at the time of the arrest |
| Type of drug involved |
| Children in the vehicle |
| Involvement in an accident causing injuries or deaths |

Potential Consequences of a DUI Charge

Table 2: Potential Consequences of a DUI Charge

| Consequences |
| — |
| License revocation |
| Imprisonment |
| Fines |
| Community Service |
| Alcohol education classes |
| Difficulty finding a job |
| Increased insurance premiums |

Conclusion

A DUI charge is a serious matter that can have lasting consequences. To prove a DUI charge, there must be elements present that show the person was driving under the influence. The typical charge can vary based on prior convictions, type of substance involved, level of intoxication, and any involvement in an accident or presence of children. Potential consequences include license revocation, imprisonment, fines, and increased insurance premiums. If charged with a DUI, hiring an experienced DUI attorney can help mitigate the impact of the charges.