-
DUI
Entrust your case to the attorney with the experience and passion to effectively fight for your defense.
Aggressive DUI Defense in Orange County
Defending Against DUI Charges in California
California's DUI laws are among the strictest in the nation. Driving under the influence can involve alcohol, prescription drugs, or illegal substances. The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% for most drivers, while commercial drivers have a lower limit of 0.04%. For drivers under 21, any detectable alcohol can lead to a charge.
With serious consequences that can affect your life for years to come, our dedicated DUI attorney in Orange County, Christian Kim, provides comprehensive defense strategies tailored to your unique situation.
Don't let a DUI charge jeopardize your future; understand your options and secure a robust defense. Schedule your free consultation to discuss your case with our experienced DUI defense attorney in Irvine by calling (714) 576-2935 or contacting us online.
Penalties for DUI Offenses in Orange County California
In California, DUI penalties can vary significantly based on whether it is a first offense or a repeat offense, the driver's blood alcohol concentration (BAC), and any aggravating factors involved. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the penalties:
First Offense
For a first DUI offense, the court-imposed base fine is typically $390 to $1,000, but with mandatory penalties, assessments, and surcharges, the total cost often exceeds $2,000 to $4,000. Offenders may face up to 6 months in county jail, though alternative sentencing options are sometimes available. Additionally, their driver's license will be suspended for 4 months by the DMV, though they can often apply for a restricted license after 30 days. This restricted license in Orange County typically requires the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) and enrollment in a 3-month (30-hour) DUI education program. It's important to engage legal counsel early to explore options that might mitigate these penalties, potentially reducing suspension periods or fines through effective negotiation with a skilled DUI attorney.
Second Offense
For a first DUI offense, the court-imposed base fine is typically $390 to $1,000, but with mandatory penalties, assessments, and surcharges, the total cost often exceeds $2,000 to $4,000. Offenders may face up to 6 months in county jail, though alternative sentencing options are sometimes available. Additionally, their driver's license will be suspended for 4 months by the DMV, though they can often apply for a restricted license after 30 days. This restricted license in Orange County typically requires the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) and enrollment in a 3-month (30-hour) DUI education program.
Third Offense
For a third DUI offense within 10 years, the base fine remains $390 to $1,000, but the total costs, including court fees, assessments, and related expenses, can skyrocket to $10,000 or even higher. Jail time increases significantly, with a mandatory minimum of 120 days and up to 1 year. The license will be suspended for 3 years, with the possibility of applying for a restricted license after 6 months (IID likely mandatory). A 30-month mandatory DUI education program is required as well. Third-time offenders face significant legal hurdles, making robust legal advocacy essential to navigating the complexities of these cases with guidance from a multiple DUI defense attorney.
Fourth Offense (Felony)
The penalties for a fourth DUI offense within 10 years escalate to felony charges. While the base fine is typically up to $1,000 (total costs can be tens of thousands of dollars), prison time becomes a very real threat, ranging from 16 months to 3 years in state prison. The license suspension lasts for 4 years, and offenders must complete a 30-month DUI education program. Facing felony charges can be daunting, but with dedicated legal representation, there are opportunities to challenge aspects of the prosecution's case and work towards a favorable outcome with the assistance of a felony DUI attorney in Orange County.
A DUI conviction can have significant and far-reaching effects beyond the immediate legal penalties. A DUI can lead to substantially higher auto insurance premiums or even the cancellation of your policy. Additionally, many employers conduct background checks, and a DUI conviction may hinder job opportunities or result in job loss. Furthermore, the stress associated with facing DUI charges can strain personal relationships, impacting both family dynamics and social interactions.
Qualities of a Top-Tier Attorney
When it Comes to Your Attorney, Experience Matters
-
CommitmentAttorney Christian Kim is committed to using his extensive experience as a former prosecutor and as a Santa Ana criminal defense attorney to aggressively and competently defend the rights of those accused of wrongdoing.
-
IntegrityMr. Kim believes that anything less than complete honesty is a disservice to his clients. You deserve complete and frank communication from your attorney in order to make informed decisions in your case.
-
ProfessionalismMaintaining the highest level of professionalism with all of his clients is a priority for Mr. Kim. Each client is treated respectfully and courteously and all phone calls are returned promptly.
-
ExperienceAfter more than 7 years serving the Orange County area as a prosecutor and now over 14 years as a criminal defense attorney, Christian Kim has experience on both sides. His unique history gives him the one-of-a-kind perspective that your case needs.
