DUI Fines in California

Bakersfield DUI Attorneys

Everyone is capable of making a mistake or overstepping the boundaries of the law. It is especially easy to find yourself charged with a DUI because people often drink enough to put them over the legal limit, but not enough that they feel under the influence of the alcohol. Unless the person has a handheld breathalyzer (and these are unreliable anyway!), he would have no idea he was above the legal limit until he was pulled over, arrested, and forced to submit to a chemical test.

This is why so many people are so shocked to find themselves arrested for DUI. Whatever the reason for the arrest, however, it is vital to take the right actions to protect yourself from harsh and unforgiving penalties. For many people, if they are ever arrested and charged with a crime, it is most likely to be for driving under the influence (DUI), as thousands of people are arrested in California each year alone for this offense, and it is often the only crime a person will ever be arrested for.

Heavy Fines for First-Time Convictions

Other than possible jail time and a driver’s license suspension, if you are convicted of a DUI, you may be substantially impacted by the financial penalties associated with sentencing.

In some cases, the court will allow you to pay your fine over time through the court’s Revenue Recovery process. It should be noted however, that if you set up staggered payments through this system and fail to meet deadlines, you could be penalized with further fines and an arrest.

Restitution in DUI Cases

If any property damage or injury was caused due to your alleged intoxication behind the wheel, you may be required to reimburse the victims for the damages. This is known as paying restitution and is determined on a case-by-case basis.

The amount of restitution can sometimes be negotiated and there is a legal right to dispute the amount the alleged victim is requesting (this is necessary in cases where the alleged victim is trying to abuse the criminal justice system to get more money than he is entitled to).

Who Can Protect My Rights?

When arrested for a DUI in California, you will be facing burdensome financial penalties, one way or another. One attorney might not be enough to provide you with a sturdy defense in court. Instead, put a whole team of hard-hitting Bakersfield DUI lawyers from Campbell Whitten in your corner.