Jail Time as a Penalty for DUI

Although it is easy to imagine violent felons locked behind bars, it it also a potential penalty that could result from your driving under the influence charge. Jail time is often a reality for those who are convicted of any type of DUI, including a first, second, or third offense.

What to Expect in Your DUI Case

1^st DUI

Even a first time DUI charge can result in up to 6 months in jail. The statutory minimum, however, is 2 days in jail. This means that, if convicted, you can expect to be behind bars, or - if the Judge and prosecutor allow it - doing work release through the Sheriff’s Department for at least 2 days. This time could potentially be increased dramatically, however, depending upon the circumstances of the case.

2^nd DUI

For those charged with DUI for the second time, they can expect to spend a minimum of 10 days up to a maximum of 1 year in jail if convicted. If there are additional factors in your case that aggravate the charge, this penalty can be increased.

3^rd DUI

In the state of California, there is a 120 day minimum and 1 year maximum jail sentence for those who are convicted of DUI with two previous DUI convictions.

4^th DUI

A 4^th DUI can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony. If charged as a misdemeanor, a 4^th DUI conviction would result in a 180 day minimum jail time penalty. In Kern County, however, a 4^th DUI is almost always charged as a felony, which carries a minimum of 16 months in jail.

Powerful Defense Offered at Campbell Whitten

At Campbell Whitten, our goal is to get our cases dismissed or at the very least reduced, and in the vast majority of our cases we are able to keep our clients from having to serve any time in jail. We can also pursue alternatives to jail time on your behalf, such as work release and community service.

We would like to discuss your case and help you evaluate a defense to avoid the maximum sentence associated with your charges. Using compelling defense strategies, we can aggressively fight for you to help you avoid spending time in custody. Call today to discuss a workable defense for your case.

Even a Short Stay Can Be an Unpleasant Experience

If you are arrested, you may feel all alone sitting in a holding cell, but you won’t be. You will be sharing that space with a wide variety of other people who have been arrested. You won’t get your own cell, your own bed, or even your own space on the floor to sit. It can truly be one of the most unpleasant experiences you will face. In fact, it is specifically designed to be that way.