Driving Under the Influence, Driving While Intoxicated, and Operating Under the Influence are closely related crimes, but they can all mean the same thing: loss of license, stiff fines, embarrassment, and possible jail time. Although DUI, DWI, and OUI are relatively common crimes, few people are familiar with their rights and how to protect themselves in such a situation.
There are thousands of factors that must be considered if you are charged with a DUI. The legality of your arrest, field sobriety tests, proper functioning test equipment, correct handling of your evidence, and the conduct of the arresting officers are frequently contentious issues during legal proceedings. Many people who believed themselves guilty discovered they could avoid serious penalties when any number of these variables failed to withstand legal scrutiny.
DUI laws are tough throughout California, and San Diego is no exception. In fact:
1st San Diego DUI Offense: Four (4) months license suspension
2nd San Diego DUI Offense: One (1) year license suspension
3rd San Diego DUI Offense: One (1) year license suspension
Penalties also include possible jail time, fines and community service. Second offense holds harsher penalties. If you have been charged with a second offense DUI, DWI or OUI contact the San Diego criminal defense lawyers of Kerry L. Steigerwalt & Associates today!