Consequences of Conviction

A small sample

When a person is arrested for a DUI it is common to be overwhelmed with questions especially about the potential consequences involved. All of the following; some of the following; or potentially none of the following may happen in your situation. (For more specific information about the particulars of your unique situation, every DUI is different, please speak to a DUI Attorney as soon as possible)

Financial Impact
According to the Automobile Club of Southern California a male motorist with 9 years driving experience convicted of DUI can expect an auto insurance increase of $8,652.00 based on premium increases over a ten year period.

If you have accidents or tickets now, or get them later, you could be looking at even higher premiums. If you add in court fines, DMV fees, education classes, restitution, impound fees, etc. the cost of not fighting your DUI arrest could easily exceed $12,000.00 – $15,000.00.

Collateral Consequences
While the direct financial impact of a DUI conviction is serious it might pale in comparison to other possbile consequences: employment problems; professional licensing; security clearances; restrictions on foreign travel; student loans; expulsion from college; divorce; child custody related cases; etc.

While most people arrested for DUI in San Diego don’t have to worry about the majority of these potential consequnces, each case is unique and some drivers may not even be aware of what is really at stake.

License Suspension
The DMV process starts as soon as you receive the DUI citation. The officer will take your license if you refused to submit to a chemical test after the arresting police officer requested it and,or you are, in the officer’s opinion, in violation of the admin per se law applicable to your age.

You have 10 days from the date of citation to request a DMV hearing.

Community Service
The Public Work Service Program often assigned to those who have been found guilty or plead guilty of a DUI in San Diego. Typically it is assigned to those individuals who have a blood alcohol level in excess of .15 and if there was an accident involved.

However, please note that these are not the only situations where it may be assigned. How many days will you be assigned? That is something that varies from case to case – consult with a DUI attorney to find out what you are facing.

Ignition Interlock Device
Judges can order the installation of a certified ignition interlock device which prevents you from starting your car if the driver has consumed alcohol. This can be for up to 3 years after you have your license reinstated.

Probation
DUI probation typically is from three to five years in length. While on probation you must not drive with any measurable amount of alcohol in your system, and if you refuse to take a requested chemical test or fail to comply with the exact terms of your probation a warrant can be issued for your arrest. If a warrant issues your time remaining on probation does NOT continue to run. Fail to pay a fine, restitution, or assessment.