Getting a DUI

by | Jan 11, 2013 | Law

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Few things in life can be scarier than getting arrested for drunk driving, especially if it is your first time. The penalties and consequences for your actions are stiff in every state, but in California, they are especially so. Hiring a DUI lawyer in Ventura to advise you of your rights cannot be overstated.

If you get arrested for drunk driving in California, you will have your day in court. A DUI means ‘driving under the influence’ and that means your blood alcohol content tested at .08 or more when the police officer tested you. And it does not matter how well you can ‘hold your alcohol.’ Even though you may not be slurring your speech or appear unable to walk straight, if you tested at .08 or more, you are legally driving under the influence. It goes without saying, but it is worth saying anyway, “Don’t drink and then drive a vehicle!”

Doing so does not make you a bad or evil person. It does show huge lack of judgment and disregard for the safety of others and you. Show some judgment afterward and hire a DUI lawyer in Ventura to help you work through the consequences of your actions.

Being convicted in court means you will be ordered to pay substantial fines and court costs. You will lose your license for a while. You may actually spend some time behind bars. Even if you are a first time offender, drunk driving laws can be a zero tolerance policy. So, again, “Don’t drink and drive!” Once you get out of the slammer, you will be placed on probation, and you could be facing some community service, which is the least you can do.

Before you can get your driver’s license back, you will have to take some form of educational training program from a qualified DUI school. The graduation requirements vary, so you will want to discuss with your DUI lawyer in Ventura what steps must be taken to get your license back.

One outcome from the training program may be that it will be determined you have a drinking problem. If so, not only will you have to complete classes on safe driving and learn about the dangers of driving while intoxicated, but you will also be required to seek treatment before you can graduate. Treatment can range from attending group classes to being admitted to a rehabilitation facility.

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