There are a number of harsh penalties for drivers accused of driving under the influence (DUI). Drivers convicted of a DUI can face fines and jail time. The court can also order drivers to install an ignition interlock device (IID).
IIDs are not mandatory parts of a DUI sentence, meaning that you can avoid getting an ignition interlock even after a DUI conviction. Having an experienced DUI lawyer by your side can help. There are several legal defenses you can use to avoid having to install an IID on your vehicle.
Avoid an IID by Getting Your Charges Dismissed
You can take steps to avoid using an IID if you get your charges dismissed. A DUI lawyer in Los Angeles can focus on getting these charges dismissed. There are a number of reasons the court could dismiss a DUI charge.
For example, a lawyer could work to show that:
You Were Stopped without Due Cause
Police officers in California are not supposed to stop drivers without a legitimate reason. If you believe you were pulled over for no reason, you should speak with a lawyer.
There Is Insufficient Evidence for Your Case
The prosecution may push forward with DUI charges if there is evidence that you were driving impaired in the state of California. However, if you did not fail a blood alcohol content (BAC) test, a lawyer could take steps to help you get your charges dismissed.
Reduce Your Charges to Avoid an IID in California
Not all DUI charges in our area can be dismissed. However, a lawyer can also work to get your charges reduced in some situations. Reducing your charges will require you to accept a plea bargain, which will require you to plead guilty to a less severe charge.
There are two major charges associated with plea bargains for DUIs in California. These charges include:
- “Wet” reckless charges
- “Dry” reckless charges
Generally, drivers convicted of a reckless driving offense are not required to install an IID on their vehicle. However, you can still face other penalties, such as fines and jail time. You should allow a DUI lawyer to review any plea bargains you are offered before you accept the deal.
Focus on a Courtroom Defense for DUI Charges
You can take steps to build a courtroom defense if you were accused of a DUI and your charges cannot be dismissed or reduced. A DUI attorney in Los Angeles can represent you in court. If you are found not guilty, you will not have to install or use an IID.
There are a number of defenses that work to handle DUI charges. A lawyer can work to:
- Dispute the results of a BAC test
- Argue that you were not impaired
- Show that your test results were mishandled by the lab
A law firm in Los Angeles can even request a sample of the blood used in your BAC tests, in some cases. Your lawyer can then focus on getting your tests redone by an independent laboratory. This could return different results than the tests performed by the police after an arrest.
Do Not Avoid Using an IID After a DUI Conviction
Note that we have discussed steps you can take to avoid orders to use an IID here in California. However, if you are convicted of a DUI and ordered to install an IID, then you must legally use this device each time you drive.
You will need to blow into the IID in the same way you would use a breathalyzer device. The IID will measure your BAC. The IID prevents your vehicle from turning on if it measures your BAC as elevated. This is designed to prevent subsequent DUIs in the state of California.
Driving a vehicle without an IID or getting someone to blow into the IID for you is against the law. You can face serious legal repercussions for trying to get around a DUI.
Talk with a Lawyer if You’re Facing a DUI Charge
If you’re facing a DUI charge in Los Angeles, reach out to us for a free consultation. Our knowledgeable DUI attorneys can help you navigate our complex legal system and can help you avoid needing an IID.
Call (310) 862-0199 or fill out our online contact form today.
