A felony DUI charge carries severe penalties, including lengthy prison terms, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record. Los Angeles DUI Lawyer can connect you with a Huntington Beach felony DUI lawyer to defend your rights and pursue the best possible outcome for your case.
With decades of experience between us, our team knows how to find you Huntington Beach DUI lawyers who can thoroughly evaluate your case, challenge the evidence, and build a defense strategy. Contact Los Angeles DUI Lawyer today to get connected with an attorney ready to help.
Huntington Beach Lawyers Can Assess Your Felony DUI Charges
A DUI charge becomes a felony under specific circumstances, which are outlined in California law. While most DUI offenses are charged as misdemeanors, certain factors elevate the charge to a felony, such as:
- Repeat offenses: If you have three or more prior DUI convictions within the last ten years, a new DUI charge is automatically treated as a felony.
- DUI causing injury or death: Under California Vehicle Code § 23153, a DUI that involves causing bodily injury or death to another person is charged as a felony, especially if gross negligence is involved.
- Prior felony DUI conviction: If you have previously been convicted of a felony DUI, any subsequent DUI charges are filed as felonies, regardless of the circumstances.
- Vehicular manslaughter or DUI murder: A DUI that results in the death of another person can lead to charges of vehicular manslaughter or even second-degree murder, sometimes referred to as a “Watson murder.”
Facing felony DUI charges is a serious matter, but you don’t have to face it without skilled legal guidance. Our experienced team puts you in touch with dedicated attorneys who can carefully assess the details of your case to develop a personalized DUI strategy.
Whether it involves disputing the evidence, seeking reduced charges, or advocating for you in court, a Huntington Beach felony DUI lawyer is prepared to protect your rights.
How Do Misdemeanor DUI Charges and Felony DUI Charges Differ?
Felony DUIs differ significantly from misdemeanor DUIs in both penalties and long-term consequences. Misdemeanor DUIs typically result in lighter sentences, such as fines, probation, and mandatory DUI education programs.
In contrast, felony DUIs carry harsher penalties, including prison time, larger fines, and a permanent criminal record. This can impact your ability to find employment, secure housing, or obtain professional licenses.
Penalties for a Felony DUI in California
The penalties for a felony DUI conviction in California are severe and depend on the specific circumstances of the case. Potential consequences include:
- Prison sentences: A felony DUI conviction can result in a prison sentence ranging from 16 months to 10 years, depending on factors such as injuries or fatalities. For example, under California Penal Code § 191.5(a), gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated carries a sentence of up to 10 years.
- License revocation: A felony DUI often leads to the revocation of your driver’s license for several years. Repeat offenders or those convicted of DUI causing injury may face longer suspension periods under California Vehicle Code § 13352.
- Fines and fees: Felony DUI convictions carry fines that can range from $1,000 to $5,000, along with additional court fees and costs for DUI programs or restitution to victims.
- Probation: Many felony DUI sentences include multiple years of formal probation, during which you must comply with strict conditions, such as regular check-ins and avoiding alcohol or drugs.
- Mandatory DUI classes: Convicted individuals are often required to enroll in lengthy DUI education programs, which can last 18 to 30 months.
- Impact on employment and professional licenses: A felony DUI conviction becomes part of your permanent criminal record, which can make securing employment difficult. For professionals such as doctors or commercial drivers, a felony DUI can result in the suspension or revocation of professional licenses.
Avoiding a felony conviction is critical due to the long-term repercussions it can have on your personal and professional life. Beyond the immediate penalties, the social and financial consequences of a felony DUI can follow you for years. That is why it’s in your best interest to seek legal representation to help fight the charges.
Aggravating Factors That May Impact Your Felony DUI Case
Certain aggravating factors can lead to harsher penalties for a DUI offense. These elements indicate increased recklessness or danger and can significantly affect the outcome of your case. Common aggravating factors include:
- High blood alcohol concentration (BAC): A BAC level of 0.15% or higher demonstrates significant impairment. This often results in enhanced penalties, such as longer jail sentences, higher fines, and mandatory alcohol education programs.
- Driving with a suspended or revoked license: Operating a vehicle while your license is suspended, particularly for a prior DUI, suggests a disregard for legal restrictions. This can lead to felony charges, extended license revocations, and additional fines.
- Causing injury or death: DUIs that result in injury or death are treated as serious offenses under California Vehicle Code § 23153. These cases are often charged as felonies and carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, victim restitution, and a permanent criminal record.
- Driving with minors in the vehicle: Having children in the car during a DUI offense is considered child endangerment. Courts view this as reckless behavior and may impose enhanced penalties, such as larger fines, parenting classes, and jail time.
Each of these factors requires a strategic legal approach to mitigate their impact and protect your future.
Contact Us to Be Put in Touch With Huntington Beach Felony DUI Attorneys
Facing a felony DUI charge in Huntington Beach is a serious matter that can have life-changing consequences. Los Angeles DUI Lawyer can connect you with an experienced Huntington Beach felony DUI lawyer who can build a defense tailored to your situation.
Your attorney will carefully analyze the details of your case and use various strategies to minimize the impact of the charges. Contact Los Angeles DUI Lawyer today to be put in touch with a skilled Huntington Beach felony DUI lawyer who can fight for your future.
