Five Essential Facts About Dui That Can Save You

By Author: Marlin Sayle
Total Articles: 1
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General driving safety dictates that you don’t insist to drive if you are in no condition to drive. What if you’ve gone out with your friends to drink and you had far too many, then suddenly you discover there are multiple missed calls on your phone from worried-sick loved ones so you need to drive home as soon as you can despite being intoxicated? Here’s what you need to know to help you in this situation:

What is DUI? To be charged with DUI, three basic elements must be present: (1) an inability to drive properly due to alcohol; (2) injury to another person; and (3) your inability to drive due to alcohol must be the cause of the accident. DUI laws vary in different states. For instance, in Chico, California, your blood alcohol content (BAC) should not exceed .08% as a general rule. Your BAC is measured by a breathalyzer test conducted by a law enforcement officer; blood or urine samples may also be taken to determine one’s alcohol level.

What are the penalties? If you refuse to take a sobriety test on your first offense, your license can be suspended for a year. If you’re found guilty, you’d have ...
... to spend a minimum of two days and a maximum of six months in jail. Additionally, you have to pay a fine that’s around $2,000, and your insurance rates may increase.

What are my rights? You have the right of refusal to participate in a police investigation without consulting a lawyer first. You have the right to be accompanied by a lawyer in any and all stages of the proceedings. And as cliché as it may sound, you also have the right to remain silent.

What can I do? With the help of your criminal defense lawyer in Chico, gather all evidence in your favor. Keep your cool at all times. Ask your lawyer about the court proceedings and how you can prepare for them. Set aside money to cover for the expenses connected with the DUI case.

How do I find a good DUI lawyer? Look for an experienced DUI Chico criminal defense lawyer who has won more cases than he has lost. If you’re not sure where to start, you can browse online or ask for recommendations. Find lawyers who are affiliated with legal associations; these attorneys are usually updated on changing California DUI laws.

DUI is a crime, but you shouldn’t let it define who you are if you’re found guilty of it. Let your Chico criminal defense lawyer help you walk through the case relatively unscathed. For more information on California DUI laws, read dui.drivinglaws.org/california.php.