Driving under the influence (DUI) is harshly punished by the legal system in Compton. You could be heavily fined and sent to jail if you are convicted on a DUI charge. You can also have your license suspended for a DUI.
Dealing with a DUI requires legal know-how and experience. The Simmrin Law Group’s DUI lawyers in Compton can help you handle these accusations. We have a history of helping clients who have faced the same charges.
Make Sure You Understand DUI Charges
Many DUI convictions occur because people don’t understand the laws surrounding DUIs. For example, it can be difficult to understand your legal rights if you are pulled over by a police officer that suspects you of driving under the influence.
Police officers often handle their suspicions by requesting you complete:
- Field sobriety tests
- Chemical tests
Field sobriety tests can be hard to successfully complete even if you are sober. Chemical tests are used to measure your blood alcohol content (BAC), to see if it is over the legal limit. Legally, you are not allowed to operate a motor vehicle if your BAC is at or above:
- .01% for drivers under 21
- .08% for drivers over 21
- .04% for commercial drivers over 21
Note that you are within your legal rights to decline these tests UNLESS:
- You are on DUI probation
- You are under 21 years of age
You can weaken your case by submitting to these tests automatically. Note that you MUST complete any test that is asked of you once you are legally arrested. After an arrest you can face serious charges if you continue to refuse to take the tests.
Penalties for DUI Convictions
A conviction for a DUI can lead to serious legal penalties. Every time you are convicted of a DUI, the repercussions worsen. Common examples of charges for a DUI include:
1st Offense
- Fines: $2,000
- Jail Time: 2 days – 6 months
- License Suspension: 1 month – 1 year
2nd Offense
- Fines: $2,500
- Jail Time: 4 days – 1 year
- License Suspension: 90 days – 2 years
3rd Offense
- Fines: $3,000
- Jail Time: 120 days – 1 year
- License Suspension: 3 years
You can get help fighting against a DUI charge by contacting a criminal defense lawyer in Compton. Building a strong case quickly can increase your chances of beating these charges and maintaining your freedom.
Dealing with Other Traffic Violations in Compton
The serious nature of a DUI can overshadow other traffic violation charges, but your DUI lawyer can also help you fight back against charges for:
- Traffic Infractions
- Reckless Driving
- Driving on an Invalid License
Traffic Infractions
Most minor mistakes that drivers make are considered traffic infractions. These infractions are not charged as criminal acts and they’re usually only punished with a small fine and 1 point on your license. Drivers are typically familiar with the most common traffic infractions, which can include:
- Speeding
- Ignoring stop signs
- Running red lights
- Changing lanes illegally
- Using a carpool lane improperly
Many times, police officers are responsible for handing out a ticket for a traffic infraction. You can also receive tickets from red light cameras in the Compton area. These tickets are every bit as valid as those you receive from a police officer, and they must be treated seriously.
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving is a criminal misdemeanor in Compton. You can be charged with reckless driving if you are accused of willfully disregarding the safety of others while operating a motor vehicle. There are many acts that can be considered reckless driving in Compton, including:
- Racing
- Swerving
- Passing illegally
- Driving the wrong way
- Engaging in daredevil behavior
You will have 2 points added to your license if you are convicted of reckless driving. You could be fined $1,000 and you might be sent to jail for up to 90 days. Working with a DUI lawyer can offer you the help you need to fight against a reckless driving charge.
Driving on an Invalid License
You can also face misdemeanor charges if you drive on an invalid license. Compton uses the following charges to prosecute this act:
- Driving on a Suspended License
- Driving on a Revoked License
Anytime you drive without a valid driver’s license you can be subjected to fines of up to $1,000 and you could end up spending 6 months in jail. You will also have 2 points added to your license for driving on a license that is suspended or revoked.
Get Help from a DUI Lawyer in Compton
Drivers can end up in serious legal trouble for traffic violations. You need professional help if you’re dealing with a DUI charge. You can count on a DUI lawyer in Compton to give you the legal advice you need. The Simmrin Law Group offers FREE consultations so that you can focus on your legal concerns right away.
Start building a case before it’s too late by calling (310) 997-4688 or filling out our online form.