Felony Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is a Serious Crime in California – 2023

Felony Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is a Serious Crime in California

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a severe crime in California and is taken very seriously by law enforcement and the courts. 

If you are charged with DUI in California, it is crucial to understand the potential consequences and the elements of each type of DUI offense. 

This article will discuss the various types of felony DUI charges in California, including fourth-time DUIs, DUI with injury, and DUI with great bodily injury, as well as the criminal consequences for each.

In California, a DUI is generally charged as a misdemeanor. However, in certain circumstances, a DUI can be charged as a felony. These circumstances include:

Fourth-time DUI

A fourth DUI within 10 years is considered a felony in California and is punishable by 16 months to 16 years in state prison. (Vehicle Code 23152(a) and 23550)

DUI with Injury

If a person is driving under the influence and causes injury to another person, they can be charged with DUI with injury, which is a “wobbler” offense in California.

This means that the prosecution can choose to charge it as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances of the case. If charged as a felony, a conviction can result in a sentence of 16 months to 16 years in state prison. (Vehicle Code 23153(a)).

DUI with Great Bodily Injury

If a person is driving under the influence and causes great bodily injury to another person, they can be charged with DUI with great bodily injury, which is always a felony in California.

A conviction can result in a sentence of three to six years in state prison. (Vehicle Code 23153(b))

It is important to note that the elements of each type of DUI offense must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt in order for a conviction to be obtained.

For example, to prove a DUI with injury or DUI with great bodily injury, the prosecution must show that the defendant was driving under the influence and that the defendant’s actions were the direct cause of the injury or great bodily injury.

If you are facing DUI charges in California, it is vital to take the charges seriously and seek the assistance of a skilled DUI defense attorney. An experienced attorney can help you understand the potential consequences of a conviction and your rights and defenses under the law.

Criminal Consequences for Felony Driving Under the Influence 

The criminal consequences of a DUI conviction in California can be severe and long-lasting. In addition to the potential jail or prison sentence, a felony DUI conviction can result in several collateral consequences, including:

• Time in State Prison 
• Suspension or revocation of your driver’s license
• Fines and court costs
• Increased insurance rates
• Employment consequences, including difficulty finding or keeping a job
• Damage to your reputation and criminal record

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I HAVE FELONY DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE CHARGES IN CALIFORNIA?

If you have been charged with a misdemeanor or felony DUI in Orange County, you need the criminal defense lawyers at ALL Trial Lawyers by your side.

The attorneys at ALL Trial Lawyers are trial attorneys with years of experience. They know the law and are not afraid to take your case to trial.In addition, they have a strong reputation among judges and prosecutors throughout Southern California, which has delivered tremendous victories for their clients.

Our ultimate goal is to provide the best results that can be achieved in your case— whether by way of outright dismissal, a favorable plea bargain deal, or an acquittal of the charges at trial. With ALL Trial Lawyers by your side, you can rest assured that the criminal team will be giving you their all.

Call (866) 811-4255 right now for your free consultation.

We have an office located near you. We have experience fighting cases in Orange County, Los Angeles County, San Bernardino County, Riverside County, and San Diego County.

If you have been accused or charged of a crime, you must speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights.

Our Felony Driving Under the Influence Office

Conclusion and Recap of Felony Driving Under the Influence

In conclusion, felony driving under the influence is a severe crime in California and is taken very seriously by law enforcement and the courts. If you are charged with DUI, it is essential to understand the potential consequences and the elements of each type of DUI offense. 

Fourth-time DUIs, DUI with injury, and DUI with great bodily injury are all serious offenses that can result in significant criminal consequences, including jail or prison time, fines, and a criminal record. If you are facing DUI charges, it is vital to seek the assistance of a skilled DUI defense attorney who can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights.