Many drivers are unsure about the regulations surrounding probation for driving under the influence (DUI). You may even wonder if you can drink while on DUI probation in California. You can use this article to review regulations on consuming alcohol after a DUI conviction.
The Simmrin Law Group can also help you go over other terms of DUI probation. Focus on the outcomes of a probation violation. Call us at (310) 896-2723 to consider your legal options for handling DUI probation.
Some Drivers Cannot Drink While on DUI Probation
The truth is, California does not use set regulations for every driver placed on a DUI probation. The court system has some control over the conditions of your probation. This means that you may be ordered not to drink while on DUI probation.
Note that regulations on drinking alcohol are more common for drivers convicted of a second or subsequent DUI within a 10-year period. Drivers facing a first-time DUI offense are often allowed to consume alcohol.
However, all drivers on DUI probation are prohibited from driving a motor vehicle with a detectable blood alcohol content (BAC). This means that consuming one alcoholic beverage and getting behind the wheel can be considered a probation violation in California.
A criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles can help you understand the specific terms of your probation, so you know whether or not you can drink.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 896-2723
Other DUI Probation Regulations in California
You can face a number of other regulations that you must obey while on DUI probation in California. Note that, while on probation, you must:
- Take any BAC tests requested by law enforcement officers
- Avoid committing any other criminal acts
- Pay any fines ordered by the court
- Adhere to all other conditions of your probation
Drivers on DUI probation have no right to decline a BAC test after a traffic stop. This includes preliminary alcohol screening (PAS) tests. Failure to take these tests can result in the immediate one-year suspension of your driver’s license, so make sure you treat this regulation seriously.
Legal Outcomes of a Probation Violation in Los Angeles
The court system can penalize drivers for a DUI probation violation in California. Drivers who are found guilty of violating the terms of their probation may have:
- Harsher terms added to their probation
- Their period of probation increased or restarted
- Their probation revoked, leading to jail time
You can get legal help quickly if you are accused of a DUI probation violation. A DUI lawyer in Los Angeles can begin working on your case right away. You can get assistance with your legal situation by calling the Simmrin Law Group at (310) 896-2723.
Additional Effects of a California DUI Conviction
Most drivers convicted of a DUI in California will face penalties above and beyond probation. A first-time DUI conviction can lead to:
- Fines of up to $2,000
- Jail time of up to six months
- License restrictions for up to six months
- Requirements to attend alcohol treatment programs
Additionally, you should be aware that the penalties for DUIs grow more severe each time you are convicted. DUI convictions stay on your record for 10 years in California. Each conviction counts against you if you are arrested for a subsequent DUI offense.
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Steps to Resolve DUI Probation in Los Angeles
Some drivers in Los Angeles are able to end their DUI probationary period early. A DUI lawyer in Los Angeles may be able to request the early termination of your DUI probation under California Penal Code Section 1203.3.
Your lawyer may be able to argue that your probation should be ended early if you have:
- Adhered to all probation requirements
- Completed all punishments ordered by the court
- Kept your record clean of additional criminal convictions
The professionals at the Simmrin Law Group can look over your case today, to see if seeking the early termination of your probation is the right choice for you. We can also help you handle DUI charges before a conviction. Our legal team is also ready to review the regulations of your probation to find out if you can drink on probation or not.
Contact a DUI Lawyer to Find Out if You Can Drink on Probation
Some drivers on DUI probation can drink alcohol, while others cannot. The terms of your probation will determine if you can consume alcohol legally. Review your probationary requirements with the professionals at the Simmrin Law Group. Get fast answers with a FREE consultation.
Speak to our DUI lawyers in Los Angeles about all aspects of your criminal case by completing our online contact form or calling (310) 896-2723.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form