Could You Face Felony DUI Charges In Vista?
A felony DUI charge in the state of California is a very serious charge with the potential for severe consequences. Not only are there criminal sanctions, including jail, fines, programs and license suspensions, but there are also separate DMV consequences that need to be addressed. The outcome of a felony DUI offense can affect your freedom, ability to drive, career, and more.
What Are Common Types Of Felony DUI Charges In California?
Under California law, DUIs are felony offenses under certain conditions as follows:
1. A 4th DUI Offense Within 10 years
If you receive a 4th DUI charge within 10 years of prior convictions, regardless if your prior DUIs were misdemeanor offenses, you would face felony DUI charges.
2. A DUI Causing An Accident with an Injury to Another
You generally will face felony DUI charges if you are under the influence and cause a vehicle accident that results in injury to another – even if the injuries are minor. If a person sustained great bodily injury (a GBI) in the accident, you may face a possible additional 3 years in state prison and the charge could also be a “strike three” under the “three strikes law.”
3. A DUI manslaughter charge
If there is a death of another person caused by an accident as a result of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you could face felony DUI manslaughter or even second degree murder charges.
Manslaughter can be either with gross negligence which carries up to 10 years in state prison, or DUI without gross negligence which carries up to 4 years state prison.
If you had previously been warned that driving under the influence is extremely dangerous to human life and after that warning drove under the influence of alcohol or drugs and caused an accident where someone is killed, you will face 2nd Degree Murder charges. That charge carries 15 years to Life in State Prison. That warning is on all DUI change of plea forms which you acknowledge when you plead guilty on any DUI or “Wet Reckless.”
4. A DUI Within 10 Years Of A Prior Felony DUI Conviction
If you receive another drunk driving charge within 10 years of a prior felony drunk driving conviction, even if there is no accident or injury, you will be charged with felony DUI.
What Are the Penalties Associated With A Felony DUI In California?
The penalties associated with a felony DUI conviction in California can be substantial. They may include probation, local county jail time up to one year, or state prison up to three years or more, depending on the allegations. There are also significant driver’s license suspensions, programs, fines up to $10,000, and restitution for any injuries or property damage.
As noted above, if another person sustains “great bodily injury,” there can also be an enhancement which adds 3 years to a state prison sentence and make the DUI with injury a strike three under the “three strikes law.”
Factors That Influence Felony Charges
Since every DUI injury case is different, the exact charge you or a loved one may face and the potential penalties will always depend on the facts of the case, level of danger of the driving, blood alcohol level, extent of the injuries, and prior record as well as any other aggravating or mitigating factors.
Some Felony DUI with minor injury cases could be reduced to misdemeanors depending on a number of factors. If probation is granted, there may be alternatives to actual local custody if less than 1 year jail is ordered. Work furlough or CPAC (County Parole and Alternative Custody electronic monitoring system) may be available in some cases.
The Importance Of Getting Experienced Legal Help – Immediately
If you were arrested and charged with a DUI in Vista or anywhere in North San Diego County, it is important to speak with an experience DUI defense attorney as soon as possible, if you are facing any DUI, but especially a potential felony DUI.
Early legal guidance can help you get the best resolution in your case and advise you what can be done to mitigate potential consequences.
Choosing Christoph Law Offices For Felony DUI Defense In Vista
Choosing the right DUI defense attorney for serious felony DUI offenses should always be carefully considered. Here is why people in North San Diego County choose Christoph Law Offices:
Decades Of Experience
DUI defense lawyers Nicholas and William Christoph have spent decades representing people facing DUI charges throughout North San Diego County, including Vista, Oceanside, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Escondido and San Marcos.
Over 5000 DUI Cases Handled Over More Than 40 Years
Attorneys Nicholas and William Christoph have handled more than 5000 DUI cases involving a wide range of circumstances, including felony DUI offenses. They are very experienced and have been located across from the Vista Courts for over 40 years. They know the local courts, procedures, understand defenses and what needs to be done to get the best resolution possible in your individual case.
Military Background
Attorney William Christoph is also a former U.S. Marine Corps Captain and combat veteran. He and his son, Nicholas Christoph, have represented hundreds of veterans and understand the concerns and issues that DUI charges can create for veterans as well as active duty service members.
Don’t Risk Your Future By Hiring Just Any Lawyer. Contact A Reputable DUI Defense Attorney At Christoph Law Offices Today.
Reach out to DUI felony defense attorneys Nicholas and William Christoph today. Call 760-941-5720 or online to set up a free consultation to evaluate your case.
