HIGHEST RATING IN LEGAL ABILITY AND ETHICAL STANDARDS

  • Top Lawyers - San Diego Magazine
  • Former Deputy San Diego City Attorney
  • Former USMC Captain
  • Located Directly Across From Vista Courthouse
  • Over 150 Five Star Reviews on Google and Yelp

Attorneys William R. Christoph & Nicholas W. Christoph

How serious is a DUI with Injury?

On Behalf of | Feb 5, 2015

A DUI with injury is very serious.  It is a felony which carries the potential of a state prison sentence depending on the facts of the case.  It can be a “strike” under the California 3 strikes law if there is great bodily injury.  Great bodily injury can make it a strike, add 3 years in state prison and result in a defendant serving 85% of the sentence.  If there is a death of another person as a result of the accident, then the case can be charged as a manslaugther or 2nd degree murder charge.

There are aggravating and mitigating factors which are important in negotiating DUI with injury cases.  Mitigating factors are facts which make the crime less serious and helpful in trying to resolve these cases with lesser charges, lesser sentences or possibly even a DUI with injury as a misdemeanor.  The most important considerations are the blood alcohol level, extent of the injury, manner of driving, and prior record.  Lower blood alcohol levels, soft tissue injuies, insurance, non-aggravated driving and lack of prior record are key.  Other considerations include attitude with the officer, field sobriety tests and other factors concerning the accident and driver’s background.

The bail in these cases is usually set at $100,000 pending the first appearance where a Judge can consider all the factors and set a lower or higher bail.  Call Attorneys Nicholas or William Christoph at 760-670-3885 for a free initial consultation.  We have provided the highest level of personal and professional DUI defense representation for over 32 years across from the Vista Courts.

Categories

Archives

""
Google 5 Star Reviews

Over 150 Five Star Google and Yelp Reviews

5 stars
Yelp 5 Stars Logo

HIGHLY RECOMMEND

I highly recommend Christoph Law Offices to everyone. Nick is a true professional who will go above and beyond for his clients. Thank you!
– Mahir B.

AMAZING ATTORNEYS!

Amazing attorneys! Bill Christoph was very helpful during my case. He was always quick to get back to me about my questions.
– Collin W.

EXPERT IN HIS FIELD

Great experience overall having William Christoph as my attorney. He understands his client, very insightful and is an expert in his field.
– Soheila N.

Defending Against DUI and Criminal Charges Throughout San Diego County

TOP RATED In The Legal Community
Top_Lawyers_2023_badge
Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent Rating, Peer Rated for Highest Level of Professional Excellence
AVVO Rating 10 Superb Top Criminal Defense