You may get stopped by a police officer in California for a number of different reasons. Sometimes, police officers stop drivers if they believe they are driving under the influence (DUI). If you are stopped for a DUI, could you get let off with just a warning?
Generally, police officers don’t give you just a warning if they think you’re driving under the influence. However, there are exceptions to every rule. You may get a warning for a DUI in some cases. It’s more likely you’ll get charged with a criminal act. Find out more about the likely outcomes of a DUI stop right here.
Law Enforcement Officers and Warnings in California
Law enforcement officers sometimes let drivers who disobey traffic laws off with a warning. They may stop you, tell you what you were doing wrong, and then allow you to go. As long as you do not receive a ticket, you are free and clear from legal charges.
Generally, officers issue warnings for offenses like speeding. DUI charges are often treated more seriously. Many police officers will issue a ticket if they’ve stopped you and made you complete sobriety testing that resulted in a failure.
However, a law enforcement officer may not realize you are driving while impaired. In this case, you could get off with a warning for a different offense. Some officers may let you go even if they believe you are slightly impaired by alcohol. However, you should not count on this.
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Common Outcomes of a DUI Traffic Stop
As you can see, it’s uncommon to get a warning for a DUI in California. So, what is more likely to happen during a DUI traffic stop? It’s likely that an officer will ask you questions. They may ask where you came from or how much you had to drink. It’s advisable that you politely decline to answer these questions.
An officer may also ask you to complete:
- Field sobriety testing
- Blood alcohol content (BAC) testing
The results of these tests often determine whether or not you face DUI charges. An officer may arrest you if you fail BAC testing or field sobriety testing. The officer may give you a ticket, as well. Your car may even get impounded after a DUI accusation.
Charges for a DUI in California
There are many different charges used to prosecute DUIs in the state of California. Depending upon your situation, you may get charged with:
- California Vehicle Code Section 23152(a): Driving Under The Influence Of Alcohol
- California Vehicle Code Section 23152(g): Driving Under the Combined Influence of Alcohol and Drugs
- California Vehicle Code Section 23152(f): Driving Under the Influence of Drugs
Note that these are only examples of DUI charges in California. You may face different charges if you are under the age of 21 or if you are a commercial driver. The court also uses different charges to prosecute drivers who cause an accident while under the influence.
A DUI lawyer may be able to help you build a defense after any DUI arrest. A lawyer can step in to review the facts of your case. Find out more about handling a DUI charge in California by calling (310) 896-2723.
Results of a DUI Conviction in California
You could get convicted on DUI charges in the state of California. DUIs are criminal offenses. This means that a conviction could result in:
- Fines
- Jail time
- Probation
DUIs also come with more unique penalties. Drivers convicted of a DUI may need to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicle. IIDs measure your BAC each time you try to start your car. Drivers may also need to attend DUI school for months after a conviction.
You can get help handling a DUI charge by reaching out to a lawyer right now. Your lawyer may work to show that you were not operating a vehicle while under the influence. Your lawyer may stand up for you in and out of the courtroom. A lawyer could even get your charges dismissed or reduced in some cases.
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Talk to a Lawyer About Getting a Warning for a DUI
Can you get a warning for a DUI in California? Technically, it’s possible a police officer will give you a warning. However, it’s not very likely. You’re more likely to face criminal charges for a DUI. The Simmrin Law Group can help you handle these charges. Reach out to our DUI lawyers in California now. We will review your situation with a free consultation.
Call us at (310) 896-2723 to get started. We also have an online contact form for you to fill out if you prefer.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form