If you’re caught driving under the influence (DUI) in California, you can face serious penalties, including fines, license suspension or revocation, or even time in jail. Navigating California’s DUI laws can be confusing, making you wonder: do you have to install an ignition interlock device after a DUI in California?
It’s important to understand what penalties you may face and how you can defend against these charges under California law. A California DUI attorney can evaluate your case and help you understand your legal options.
When Is IID Installation Mandatory?
When it comes to ignition interlock devices (IIDs), installation is mandatory unless you are a(n):
- First-time offender in a case involving drugs only and no injuries
- Offender with an administrative suspension after the DUI arrest
- Repeat offender in a case involving drugs only
- Any other offenders approved for an IID exemption
The details of your charges and your criminal history can impact whether you must install an IID and for how long. You can expect to have an IID installed for anywhere from one to four years, depending on the facts of the case.
First-time offenders in alcohol-related DUIs may have a court-ordered IID installation for up to six months after being convicted. It may be possible to qualify for an IID-restricted license depending on the situation. A California DUI attorney can help you understand your legal options.
California DUI Penalties
It’s estimated that 32 people across the United States die every day in drunk-driving accidents. In 2023, 1,355 people were killed in alcohol-related crashes in California alone. California’s DUI laws may be less harsh than those of many other states, but that doesn’t mean you won’t face serious penalties if you’re charged. Potential California DUI penalties include:
- Fines and fees
- Installation of IID
- License suspension or revocation
- Mandatory DUI education
- Probation
It’s wise to hire a DUI lawyer to help you understand the potential penalties you may face.
Hire a DUI Lawyer to Learn More About California DUI Penalties
At Kolacia Law Firm, our founding attorney has been navigating complex criminal cases throughout Southern California for over two decades. Our team is familiar with both the administrative and criminal aspects of a DUI case, and we’re not afraid to provide the aggressive advocacy you need in DMV hearings and criminal trials alike. Over the years, we’ve earned:
- An A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau
- BBB accreditation
- Five-star Google rating*
Daniel Kolacia is a former DA who founded the Vehicular Homicide Unit and still trains law enforcement on DUI. He brings invaluable experience to the table that we’re ready to put to work for you. We proudly serve clients throughout San Bernardino, Riverside, and Orange Counties, all of which are ranked in the top five counties for alcohol-related fatalities in California.
Contact Kolacia Law Firm: Experienced California DUI Defense
Contact our office to set up a meeting with a member of our team and discuss your case in more detail today. We’re located near I-10 and I-15, making us an easy trip for our clients.
*Reviews from past clients and industry accolades do not guarantee future case results.
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