Southern California Felony DUI – Potential Consequences

If you are charged with driving under the influence under California Vehicle Code §23153 (a) or (b), you are facing a felony DUI charge. The potential consequences of a felony charge will be more severe than the consequences for a misdemeanor DUI charge.

One of the penalties for a felony DUI conviction is a fine. DUI fines range from $390 to $1000, and because felony DUI charges are more serious in nature, the fine assessed will likely be closer to the high end of the range. In addition to a fine, the court will also assess additional fees and court costs to the penalty. These additional DUI fees and costs can bring the $1,000 fine up to nearly $4,500 when all is said and done. Because these fees can add up quickly, it’s important to speak with an experienced DUI and criminal defense attorney who can negotiate with the court. By presenting a strong defense, a skilled DUI defense attorney may persuade the court to reduce the fees.

DUI Conviction Non-Financial Penalties

Just as with misdemeanor DUI cases, the court will ask those convicted of a felony DUI to complete alcohol rehabilitation and education classes. Since a felony is a more serious charge than a misdemeanor, conviction of a felony DUI will require you to complete a longer rehab or education program than if you were convicted of a misdemeanor DUI.

Along with any fines and education classes, formal probation will generally be a part of the final sentence for felony DUI. This type of probation generally lasts from three to five years. Unlike informal probation, formal probation requires you to check in with a probation officer who will monitor your behavior during the probationary period.

Jail time is often imposed for felony DUI cases. The prosecution has discretion to propose between 0-6 months jail time for first time DUI offenders. If you have prior offenses or other aggravating circumstances, the amount of jail time will likely increase because of those factors.

Strong DUI Defense

A felony DUI conviction is a serious mark on what becomes a permanent criminal record. The penalties and fines may fall towards the harsher end of the range established by legislation. Fortunately, there is often room for negotiation of your DUI case based on the specific facts of the case. Only a knowledgeable DUI defense lawyer understands the complex DUI laws and how to negotiate on your behalf while fighting for your rights.

The skilled criminal defense attorneys at Hoffman & Associates have successfully fought for the rights and reputations of clients facing DUI charges for over 30 years. We can represent you in any California courtroom and are happy to explain your options based on the facts of your case. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and put our decades of experience to work fighting for you!

Client Reviews
★★★★★
I can't begin to thank Mr. Hoffman enough for his extensive efforts throughout the entire case. He went absolutely above and beyond throughout the entire process. From day one he was immediately actively pursuing ways to prevent my case from ever going to court and once that was no longer an option, actively began working on getting the case ultimately dismissed. His communication was consistent and reassuring, despite my frantic worries all the time... Micaiah Botts
★★★★★
My family and I simply owe our life and future to Ron Hoffman. If you are looking for a lawyer that goes above and beyond the call of duty you can't find a better lawyer than Ron. He took my case head on from the moment I called his office. I was involved in an accidental hit and run where I was unaware of the injury. Every step of the way, Ron guided me through an almost two year long investigation and court settlement process and was constantly by my side through out every crossroad... Bill Martin
★★★★★
Ron Hoffman and his staff were Fantastic when dealing with such a serious issue of DUI. When I first Called Ron I was very nervous and worried for my daughter and her freedom. She had a failure to appear on top of her DUI and I knew just how bad this could be. Ron was able to immediately put me at ease and gave me the confidence that there was hope and a light at the end of the tunnel. Ron was able to get the failure to appear dismissed and also no jail time for my daughter... Claude Brown
★★★★★
I have been working with Mr. Hoffman for over 11 years. I have seen first hand his genuine dedication to his clients, and how his experience, knowledge and passion have gotten clients fantastic results. He treats each of his clients as his only client, and takes the time to develop detailed strategies and defenses for each individual case. I have never hesitated to refer Mr. Hoffman to anyone who has asked me for a good Criminal Defense attorney. He is a fantastic attorney!... Neeta P.
★★★★★
I had a DUI issue recently. I have never had a problem with the law as serious as this one. I did panic a bit after and knew I had to get a lawyer to help my future. I researched the Web and read the reviews for awesome DUI Lawyers. Hiring a lawyer can be intimidating. Ron's 30 years experience and step by step guidance helped me with my case. Jonie was amazing with keeping me calm. Ron Hoffman is a great lawyer and I would refer any friends or family to him... Manuel Gomez
★★★★★
Ron was so accommodating and professional. With a Firm like his you wouldn't expect him to be as accessible, but he immediately returned phone calls, was easy to communicate with and was very sympathetic to my situation. He went above and beyond and was able to get a better result than I'd hoped or expected. I highly recommend Ron Hoffman and his firm. He made a difficult and anxiety fueled process bearable and made me feel safe. He is a lovely man. One does not wish to need a criminal attorney, but if you do need one, Ron's the guy to call... Teri A.
★★★★★
Ron and his team were the perfect pairing for what I needed taken care of. Every step of the way he was extremely helpful and informative (not his first rodeo). His work ethic and attitude were exemplary and it showed with the results of using his services. I would recommend anyone I know to give Ron a call if they need help in his realm of expertise. Many thanks Ron and associates!... Donald N.
★★★★★
I didn't hire a lawyer for my first DUI... What a mistake! Ronald goes above and beyond with his art and knowledge of custom strategy according to your case. lawyer of the year (every year)... Adam R.
★★★★★
I hate lawyers. They are hard to get a hold of, greedy and unreliable. Ron is the opposite of all these things. He deserves 6 stars, and I very much recommend him. He helped me through my case with nothing but kindness, understanding, and knowledge and eventually got it dropped. Thanks for everything Ron!... Avi Z.