Central Coast Misdemeanor and Felony DUI Lawyer
Serving Santa Barbara, Ventura and San Luis Obispo County
Being charged with DUI in California is a misdemeanor offense that has serious penalties upon a conviction. It is generally charged in first, second, and third offenses. However, DUI charges will be elevated to felony charges in certain situations. Felony charges are much more serious with penalties that can include years in a California state prison, massive fines, and extended license suspensions. When facing such severe consequences, you will need an attorney who knows how to fight for you with competence and commitment. Your life and future could be severely changed and jeopardized as a convicted felon.
At AQ Law, you can turn to a Central Coast DUI attorney who does nothing else but defend drivers against DUI charges of all kinds. That means working on DUI cases in and out of court all day every day. This concentration has given Ali a deep understanding of California DUI, how the court system works, how prosecutors put together cases, and how to counteract their efforts on behalf of clients. Ali knows that your future is on the line and that his legal ability and determination can have a major impact on the outcome of your case. That is why he gives every client his full effort and dedication towards winning cases or minimizing consequences.
Request your free consultation with Ali about your case by contacting AQ Law via our website or by phone at (805) 360-3355. Ali is always available. Call 24/7.
Why You Need an Aggressive Defender
A felony conviction has not only much more serious criminal penalties but collateral consequences as well. Your criminal record will make it difficult to find employment, housing, and educational opportunities, and may disqualify you for professional licenses.
You will need a DUI defense attorney who has the knowledge and skills to create a strategic defense that can challenge the prosecutor’s case. At AQ Law, you can work with our Central Coast felony DUI lawyer who is dedicated to helping you achieve optimum results.
Felony DUI Charges in California
Felony DUI is charged in the following situations:
DUI Causing Injury or Death
You can be charged with a felony under Vehicle Code 23153C if you have been found driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs and caused an accident that injured another. This offense is what is referred to as a “wobbler” meaning it may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony depending on the circumstances. When charged as a felony, you face up to four years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000, and the revocation of your license for five years.
You can also be charged with a felony under Penal Code 191.5(a) for the death of another as gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. This crime is considered to be gross negligence and carries a prison sentence of four up to 10 years. In even more serious cases, you could face DUI second-degree murder charges if you acted with “implied malice” which involves acting with knowing disregard for the life of others. This is punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Fourth or Subsequent DUI
If you have three or more previous DUI convictions in the last 10 years and are arrested for a new DUI, you will face a felony DUI charge. Multiple DUI convictions can result in fines of up to $1,000, up to three years in prison, the loss of your license for four years, and months of DUI school.
One Previous Felony DUI Conviction
Being arrested for a new DUI after being convicted of a previous DUI felony will lead to a new felony charge.
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Whether you have questions or you’re ready to get started, our legal team is ready to help. Complete our form below or call us at (805) 360-3355.