A DUI arrest in Los Angeles starts a complex legal process with serious consequences. California treats driving under the influence as a criminal offense that can result in jail time, substantial fines, license suspension, and a permanent criminal record. When facing DUI charges, immediate action is critical to protect both your legal rights and driving privileges.
DUI Charges in California
In California, driving under the influence is a criminal offense prosecuted in criminal courts. The state has strict laws against operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. You can also face DUI charges with lower BAC levels if your driving ability is impaired by alcohol or drugs, including prescription medications.
California prosecutors aggressively pursue DUI cases, and convictions carry mandatory penalties established by state law. These cases involve complex legal procedures in both criminal court and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Misdemeanor vs. Felony DUI
Most first, second, and third DUI offenses in California are charged as misdemeanors. However, certain circumstances can elevate a DUI to a felony:
- Fourth or subsequent DUI offense within 10 years
- DUI causing injury to another person
- Prior felony DUI conviction
- Vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated
The distinction between misdemeanor and felony DUI is critical. Felony convictions carry state prison sentences, higher fines, and lifelong consequences including loss of voting rights and firearm privileges.
California DUI Penalties
California imposes escalating penalties for DUI convictions based on prior offenses and case circumstances. These penalties are mandatory and judges have limited discretion to reduce them.
| Offense | Jail Time | Fine | License Suspension | IID Requirement |
| First DUI | 48 hours to 6 months | $390-$1,000 plus penalties | 6-10 months | 6 months |
| Second DUI | 96 hours to 1 year | $390-$1,000 plus penalties | 2 years | 1 year |
| Third DUI | 120 days to 1 year | $390-$1,000 plus penalties | 3 years | 2 years |
| Felony DUI | 16 months to 4 years | Up to $5,000 plus penalties | 4 years | 3 years |
Additional DUI Consequences
- Mandatory DUI education programs (3-30 months)
- Probation (3-5 years)
- Increased auto insurance premiums
- Vehicle impoundment
- Professional license consequences
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens
Facing DUI Charges? Don’t Wait.
The penalties for DUI crimes in California are severe. Early intervention by an experienced criminal defense attorney can significantly impact your case outcome.
California DMV DUI Hearings
When arrested for DUI in California, you face two separate proceedings:
- Criminal court case for the DUI charge
- DMV administrative hearing for your driver’s license
You have only 10 days from your arrest to request a DMV hearing, or your license will be automatically suspended. This administrative process is entirely separate from your criminal case and requires different legal strategies.
At the DMV hearing, the focus is solely on your driving privileges. The hearing officer will consider whether:
- The officer had reasonable cause to believe you were driving under the influence
- You were lawfully arrested
- You were driving with a BAC of 0.08% or higher
Even if you win your criminal DUI case, you can still lose your driving privileges if you don’t properly contest the DMV suspension. Professional representation at both proceedings is essential.
The Importance of Acting Quickly
The hours and days immediately following a DUI arrest are critical to your defense. Evidence collection, witness statements, and procedural challenges must be addressed promptly.
Critical Deadlines After DUI Arrest:
- 10 days to request DMV hearing (or face automatic license suspension)
- 30 days of temporary driving privileges from arrest date
- Limited time to collect surveillance footage, witness statements, and other evidence
- Police reports and evidence can be altered or become unavailable if not promptly requested
Every hour matters after a DUI arrest. Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately to protect your rights, preserve evidence, and meet critical deadlines.
DUI Cases in Los Angeles County Courts
DUI cases in Los Angeles are prosecuted in several courts throughout the county, depending on where the arrest occurred. These include:
- Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center (Downtown LA)
- Airport Courthouse (LAX area)
- Van Nuys Courthouse
- Compton Courthouse
- Pasadena Courthouse
- Torrance Courthouse
Each court has unique procedures, prosecutors, and judges. Local knowledge of these courts is crucial for effective DUI defense. Our attorneys regularly appear in all Los Angeles County criminal courts and understand the specific approaches needed in each venue.
DUI Programs and Requirements
California requires convicted DUI offenders to complete alcohol education programs. The length and intensity depend on your BAC level and number of prior offenses:
First Offense Program
3-month, 6-month, or 9-month program depending on BAC level. Includes education, group counseling, and individual interviews.
Multiple Offense Program
18-month or 30-month program for repeat offenders. Includes education, group counseling, individual counseling, and monitoring.
Wet Reckless Program
12-hour SB1176 program for reduced “wet reckless” charges. Shorter and less expensive than full DUI programs.
Completion of these programs is mandatory for license reinstatement. Failure to enroll or complete required programs results in extended license suspension and possible additional criminal penalties.
Criminal Defense Representation for DUI Charges
Effective DUI defense requires thorough investigation and legal expertise. Our criminal defense attorneys examine every aspect of your case, including:
- Legality of the traffic stop and arrest
- Proper administration of field sobriety tests
- Accuracy and maintenance of breath/blood testing equipment
- Chain of custody for blood samples
- Officer conduct and procedural violations
- Medical conditions that could affect test results
- Witness statements and video evidence
Many DUI arrests involve procedural errors, improper testing, or constitutional violations that can be challenged in court. A thorough defense investigation often reveals issues that can lead to reduced charges or case dismissal.
Contact a Los Angeles DUI Defense Attorney Today
If you’ve been charged with a DUI crime in Los Angeles, immediate legal representation is crucial. Our criminal defense attorneys handle both court proceedings and DMV hearings to protect your rights, driving privileges, and future.
We offer confidential consultations to discuss your case and defense options. Don’t face DUI charges alone.
