When a person has been convicted of a Los Angeles driving under the influence charge, there are certain penalties that will be imposed. One of the most serious penalties that the person will face, is a drivers license suspension. For a first offense DUI, a person's license may be suspended for up to 4 months, for a second time offense, the license may be suspended for up to a year.
Having your license suspended is a significant restriction on a person's daily activities. It prohibits you from driving to work, social activities and other important places. If a person chooses to drive on a suspended license in Los Angeles, they can be charged with an additional charge. A driving on a suspended license conviction is very serious, it can lead to jail time and penalties. It may even lead to an extension of a person's probation.
There are options for a restricted license. When a person's license has been suspended, they can ask the DMV for a restricted license which allows them to drive to and from work. A restricted license is granted sparingly, and under certain specific circumstances. An experienced Los Angeles County DUI attorney can successfully persuade the Court to allow for a restricted license, which prevent taking away driving privileges completely.
Under the previous law, a person who has been convicted of a second time DUI must wait 12 months before they can apply for a restricted license. Under new law, SB 598, that went into effect July 10, 2010 a person can apply for a restricted license after just 90 days.
Third time offenders under previous law could not apply for a restricted license until 12 months into their 3 year suspension. Under the new law they can apply after 6 months.
However, there is a caveat to applying for a restricted license earlier under the new law, the person must install an Ignition Interlock Device. An Ignition Interlock Device is a device that is installed on a person's steering wheel that does not allow the car to start until the driver breathes into the machine so that it can check for blood alcohol content.
Having your license suspended adds to the difficult situation you are already facing with a DUI. There are usually fines and jail time associated with driving under the influence charges. When you are unable to drive anywhere it makes even going to work an obstacle, and causes you to rely on your friends and family. It is crucial for a person who finds themselves about to get their license suspended that they consult with a Southern California DUI specialist to learn about their defenses and options.
Everyone should have a knowledgeable attorney to represent them at the DMV hearing as well as the Criminal case. An attorney can also prepare a strong argument that may allow for the person being charged to have a restricted license under specific circumstances. A persuasive argument can make a huge difference in regards to a potential sentence and license suspension.
