The common plea bargain options for felony DUI charges include a reduction to a misdemeanor, wet reckless, and dry reckless.
These options, along with several other types of plea bargains, allow you to plead guilty to charges with less serious penalties, thus making your life much easier after a DUI arrest.
A felony DUI lawyer in Los Angeles can review the details of your case and determine which type of plea bargain makes the most sense for your unique situation. Your attorney will negotiate with prosecutors to secure a plea bargain that protects your reputation, finances, and freedom.
Let’s take a closer look at common plea bargain options after a felony DUI charge.
Reduction to a Misdemeanor is a Common Plea Bargain Option for Felony DUI Charges
One of the most common plea bargain options for felony DUI charges involves reducing your felony DUI to a misdemeanor. This avenue may be available when aggravating circumstances are less severe or when the evidence supporting a felony charge is weaker.
Accepting a misdemeanor DUI often results in probation, fines, alcohol education programs, community service, and a shorter license suspension. While still serious, a misdemeanor conviction is far less damaging than a felony and can make a huge difference in future job opportunities that require a background check.
Wet Reckless is Another Plea Bargain Option
A “wet reckless” is a reckless driving charge that notes alcohol involvement but does not carry the same weight as a DUI. Prosecutors sometimes agree to reduce a felony DUI to a wet reckless charge when mitigating factors are present, such as a borderline blood alcohol concentration or a lack of prior offenses.
This plea bargain option usually results in lighter penalties, shorter license suspension periods, and fewer long-term consequences.
While it may still affect your insurance premiums and driving records, it helps you avoid the stigma of a DUI conviction and does not carry the same sentencing range as a felony.
A skilled DUI defense attorney can explain other common plea bargain options for felony DUI charges and determine whether pursuing a wet reckless is right for you.
Exploring a Dry Reckless Plea Bargain
A “dry reckless” plea is simply a charge for reckless driving without any mention of alcohol. This is a less common plea bargain option for felony DUI charges. Still, it can be beneficial when evidence of intoxication is weak or when prosecutors are willing to compromise to secure a conviction.
A dry reckless plea can reduce fines, jail time, and the likelihood of license suspension. This plea bargain also spares your reputation from damage and doesn’t pose the same job search issues that come with a felony conviction.
Negligent or Reckless Driving Without Alcohol Enhancements
Sometimes, felony DUI charges can be negotiated down to a more general negligent or reckless driving offense without any alcohol or drug association. This is a valuable plea bargain option for a felony DUI because it removes the substance-related element entirely.
If your lawyer is able to negotiate this type of plea bargain, you could face probation, fines, or a short jail sentence. The positive side of this option is that you’ll avoid mandatory alcohol education programs and unwanted marks on your driving record.
How a Lawyer Can Help You Secure a Plea Bargain After a Felony DUI
A felony DUI charge is serious, but an experienced defense attorney can play an important role in negotiating a plea bargain. A lawyer will meet with you to explain the most common plea bargain options for felony DUI charges and determine which course of action makes the most sense for you.
A dedicated attorney will take the following steps to get an outcome that works for you:
- Review evidence carefully to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
- Review blood alcohol concentration (BAC) test results
- Determine if your constitutional rights were violated during the traffic stop, search, or arrest
- Highlight mitigating factors like lack of prior convictions, cooperation with law enforcement, or enrollment in treatment programs
- Negotiate with prosecutors to reduce a felony DUI to a misdemeanor, wet reckless, or another charge that comes with less serious penalties
- Secure a favorable sentencing agreement, such as probation or a treatment program
- Protect your rights in court if your case goes to trial
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Trusted Felony DUI Lawyer
Since every case is unique, it is important that you find professional legal support before accepting or rejecting a plea deal. Having knowledgeable representation can make the difference between a harsh felony conviction and a reduced charge that allows for a more manageable future.
At Los Angeles DUI Lawyer, we connect you with an attorney who has the knowledge and resources required to get a positive outcome for you. Our team has decades of combined experience and has helped thousands of people facing situations just like yours.
Contact us today to find a skilled lawyer and learn more about the common plea bargain options for felony DUI charges.
