YOU MAY NOT HAVE TO APPEAR IN COURT!  //  CALL US ANY TIME  //  LOCATED DIRECTLY ACROSS FROM VISTA COURTHOUSE

Christoph Law Offices, DUI & Criminal Defense
40+ Years Criminal Defense Experience

CALL 24/7 – Free Consultation
760-941-5720

Christoph Law Offices, DUI & Criminal Defense
Christoph Law Offices, DUI & Criminal Defense

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

What is a Felony DUI in California?

by | Jul 23, 2024

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in California, and the consequences become even more severe when the charge is elevated to a felony. While most DUI charges are misdemeanors, DUI cases causing an injury to another, or having 3 or more prior DUIs within 10 years, or having had a felony DUI within 10 years can result in a felony DUI being charged. Here’s what you need to know about felony DUI in California.

Definition and Basics

A felony DUI in California occurs under specific circumstances that elevate the seriousness of the offense. The key factors that can lead to a felony DUI charge include:

  1. Prior Felony DUI Convictions: If you have a prior felony DUI conviction on your record then any subsequent DUI offense within 10 years will automatically be charged as a felony.
  2. Multiple DUI Convictions: If you have three or more DUI convictions within a ten-year period, the fourth offense will be charged as a felony.
  3. DUI Causing Injury or Death: If you are involved in causing an accident while driving under the influence that results in an injury to another person, you can be charged with felony DUI. If there is a death, you can also be charged with vehicular manslaughter or even second-degree murder under California’s “Watson murder” rule.

Legal Consequences

The penalties for a felony DUI are significantly more severe than those for a misdemeanor DUI. They may include:

  • Prison Time: Felony DUI convictions can result in substantial prison sentences, ranging from 16  months to 4 years, depending on the specifics of the case and any prior convictions.
  • Great Bodily Injury to another can add 3 years state prison and make the it a strike under the 3 strikes law.
  • Multiple victims can add 1 year prison, if sent to prison, for each victim over one.
  • Fines: Fines for felony DUI can be steep, ranging from to $5,000, plus additional penalty assessments that can significantly increase the total amount.
  • License Suspension: A felony DUI conviction is a 1 year suspension or longer depending if there are prior convictions within 10 years.  (A person may be eligible for a restricted license depending on the case and priors.)
  • Probation: If not sent to prison, offenders face up to 5 years probation with local custody up to a year and  requires regular reporting, restitution, attending DUI education programs and a number of other conditions.
  • Restitution: If the DUI caused injury or death, you will be required to pay restitution to the victims or their families.

A felony DUI in California is a serious charge with long-lasting consequences. If you or someone you know is facing a felony DUI charge, it is crucial to seek legal representation to navigate the complexities of the legal system and work towards the best possible outcome. Understanding the gravity of a felony DUI and taking steps to address it responsibly can make a significant difference in your case

Categories

Archives

""
Google 5 stars

Over 150 Five Star Google and Yelp Reviews

5 stars
Yelp 5 stars

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
Martindale-Hubbell | AV Preeminent | Peer Rated for Highest Level of Professional Excellence
Avvo Rating | 10 Superb | Top Attorney Criminal Defense