Most people who are convicted of a DUI / DWI in California will face jail time, fines, driver’s license suspensions, among other punitive orders. Of the more novel orders is the ignition interlock device. In some cases the ignition interlock device will be mandatory, and at other times, it may be a choice for the driver. A DUI / DWI lawyer will be in a position to assess the viability of the ignition interlock device for their client.

The ignition interlock device attaches to the ignition of a car. A driver will blow into a small alcohol sensor unit that will measure for alcohol on the breath. If there is a certain amount of alcohol on the driver’s breath the car will not start. The BAC of a driver can be adjusted on the device. The device can be set to accept any BAC below .04 percent, but to shut the car down if there is any more than .04 percent alcohol in the driver’s system. The appropriate BAC setting will be determined between a California criminal defense attorney, the judge and the prosecutor.

The ignition interlock device is a sophisticated mechanism that is built to withstand tampering. Furthermore, the device keeps an internal record every time it is removed from its power source in the car. If the device is mandatory, a driver will be penalized for removing it without just cause.

The device is also designed to test the driver’s breath while driving is in progress. Without this feature, a drunk driver may be able to have a sober person blow into the device to get a car started. Therefore, drivers may be required to engage in “rolling re-tests” as they drive. If the BAC spikes above allowed levels during driving, the car will shut down.

The ignition interlock device has been lauded by California DUI / DWI attorneys as well as lawyers from many other states where the popularity of these devices is growing. Studies have shown that where the ignition interlock device has been used, there are fewer repeat offenders. When there are fewer repeat offenders, society benefits. Roads are safer and the court systems are not so clogged with offenders coming in and out on probation violations.

If you believe that the ignition interlock system may be right for you, contact a qualified DUI / DWI lawyer to see if you are eligible to use it. The ignition interlock device can make life easier for a person with a restricted or suspended license if use of the device can eliminate the need for such restrictions or suspensions.

Alternative sentencing options for a DUID conviction

Driving under the influence of marijuana in California is a serious offense that carries severe penalties. Hiring an experienced California DUI criminal attorney who knows what types of alternative sentencing options are available is the key to avoiding a county jail or state prison sentence.

Private jail or “city jail” allows an individual who has been convicted of driving under the influence of drugs (DUID) to serve their jail sentence in a non-threatening environment. Although they do charge a fee, their accommodations are much nicer than county jail, they offer rooms instead of cells and those who stay there are permitted to bring books or laptop computers. The down side is that an individual who opts for private jail will most likely be required to serve his or her entire sentence without receiving the benefit of early release credits.

Community service or labor is often available to an individual convicted of this charge. Cal-Trans (picking up trash on the side of the freeway) or graffiti removal are typically offered, although community service may be alternatively assigned if the defendant has a medical issue that prevents this type of labor. “Good time” credits are not usually offered under this option either.

Work Release and work furlough programs are offered in some counties, which allow an individual to perform some type of labor (which is assigned based on physical abilities) and then return to either their homes or a dorm-like setting at night.

Drug treatment is an option for those who suffer from a drug problem as opposed to an occasional user who was caught driving. Living in an authorized drug rehabilitation center may allow an individual to serve his or her jail sentence while in rehab, receiving credits toward any imposed fine for any time that the individual resides in the facility over his or her required sentence. Such a program may even be covered by one’s health insurance. Residing in a sober living environment will also allow an individual to receive credit towards a jail sentence and/or fine. The main difference (and benefit) of sober living versus rehab is that many residents of sober living environments are permitted to work and otherwise leave the residence during the day.

Electronic monitoring (also known as “house arrest”) takes place when an individual is fitted with an ankle-bracelet that electronically keeps track of his or her whereabouts. Although one allowed this opportunity is typically expected to remain in his or her home for the duration of the sentence, an individual may be permitted to work, do laundry, shop for groceries, do other personal errands and attend court and other court-ordered programs, if pre-approved by the probation department.

It should be noted that not all of the sentencing alternatives listed above will be available in every case or in every county. These options vary between counties, between courthouses and even between judges, which is why it is vital that the accused contacts a criminal defense lawyer who is familiar with the local practices and who can answer questions about each type of alternative. The exceptional D.U.I.D. attorneys at The Kavinoky Law Firm have law offices throughout California, including several in and around the Los Angeles area, making them conveniently located for anyone who has been charged with driving under the influence of marijuana. Because of their state-wide presence, they know the local customs and practices, which gives their clients a tremendous advantage over out-of-area attorneys. For the most trusted legal advice and unsurpassed representation, contact them today for a free consultation.

Alcohol Education Programs in Colusa County, California

In California, there are several levels of Alcohol Education Programs that are offered. In order to enroll in one of the programs, one must be referred, either by the court or the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

BEWARE: Completing an alcohol program may not satisfy the DMV. That is just one reason why it is critical that you consult with a California criminal defense lawyer that concentrates on DUI defense.

Driving Under the Influence programs in Colusa County, California:

Colusa County DDP
(Service Provided: First Offender, 18 Month)
162 E. Carson Street,
Suite B,
Colusa, California 95932
Phone: 530-458-0516; Fax: 530-458-8028

» Return to Driving Under the Influence program in California, directory of service providers

Note: This list is provided for convenience and informational purposes only. We do not recommend or endorse any specific Alcohol or Drug Risk Reduction Program.

Alcohol Education Programs in Mendocino County, California

In California, there are several levels of Alcohol Education Programs that are offered. In order to enroll in one of the programs, one must be referred, either by the court or the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

BEWARE: Completing an alcohol program may not satisfy the DMV. That is just one reason why it is critical that you consult with a California criminal defense lawyer that concentrates on DUI defense.

Driving Under the Influence programs in Mendocino County, California:

Lucky Deuce DUI/DDP
(Service Provided: First Offender, 18 Month)
145 S. Humboldt Street,
Willits, California 95490
Phone: 707-459-9431

Ford Street Project First Offense DDP
(Service Provided: First Offender)
139 Ford Street,
Ukiah, California 95482
Phone: 707-462-1934; Fax: 707-468-9860

» Return to Driving Under the Influence program in California, directory of service providers

Note: This list is provided for convenience and informational purposes only. We do not recommend or endorse any specific Alcohol or Drug Risk Reduction Program.

Alcohol Education Programs in San Luis Obispo County, California

In California, there are several levels of Alcohol Education Programs that are offered. In order to enroll in one of the programs, one must be referred, either by the court or the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

BEWARE: Completing an alcohol program may not satisfy the DMV. That is just one reason why it is critical that you consult with a California criminal defense lawyer that concentrates on DUI defense.

Driving Under the Influence programs in San Luis Obispo County, California:

San Luis Obispo County DDP
(Service Provided: First Offender, 18 Month)
2945 McMillan Avenue,
Suite 136,
San Luis Obispo, California 93401
Phone: 805-781-4275; Fax: 805-781-1227

San Luis Obispo County DDP
(Service Provided: First Offender, 18 Month)
1106 Grand Avenue,
Suite A,
Arroyo Grande, California 93420
Phone: 805-473-7080; Fax: 805-473-7188

San Luis Obispo County DDP
(Service Provided: First Offender, 18 Month)
3556 El Camino Real,
Atascadero, California 93422
Phone: 805-461-6080; Fax: 805-461-6114

» Return to Driving Under the Influence program in California, directory of service providers

Note: This list is provided for convenience and informational purposes only. We do not recommend or endorse any specific Alcohol or Drug Risk Reduction Program.

Boating, flying and bicycling under the influence are separate offenses under California law. Each offense carries significant consequences, but can be successfully challenged by a California defense attorney who is well-versed in defending DUI /charges involving motorcycles, vessels, aircraft and bicycles. Challenging DUI cases involving motorcycles, vessels, aircraft and bicycles can be done in much the same way as cases for driving cars under the influence of alcohol or drugs while intoxicated can be challenged.

The California Vehicle Code defines a vehicle as “a device by which any person or property may be propelled, moved, or drawn upon a highway, excepting a device moved exclusively by human power or used exclusively upon stationary rails or tracks.” This definition encompasses automobiles, trucks, motorcycles, mopeds, scooters, and bulldozers.

Motorcycling under the influence, for most purposes, is the same thing as a DUI case for drunk driving in a car. The case will be prosecuted pursuant to the same statutes. There will be a criminal case, and an administrative hearing at the DMV. A California defense attorney for DUI can handle both situations. If the motorcyclist fails to request a DMV hearing within 10 days (including weekends and holidays), the Department of Motor Vehicles will begin the process of suspending the license.

The standard of proof at the DMV hearing is the preponderance of the evidence. To find the defendant guilty, a judge must find that the arrest was lawful and that the motorcyclist had a BAC of .08 percent or higher.

Court punishments for the motorcyclist convicted of driving under the influence are the same as the punishments for those who are convicted of driving cars under the influence of alcohol. Those punishments include jail time, fines, alcohol education classes, the ignition interlock device, and probation.

 

Boating under the influence, or BUI / BWI, is governed by California’s Harbors and Navigation Code. Under the code, a person is considered too impaired to operate a recreational vessel with a BAC of .08 percent or greater. The standard is .04 percent for operating a commercial vessel. Individuals using aquaplanes and water skis and similar crafts are not allowed to have ingested any alcohol at all. A zero-tolerance policy is in effect for all such crafts.

A person convicted for boating under the influence can face penalties including jail time and fines. A California defense lawyer can effectively limit the consequences of a BUI / BWI conviction.

 

Flying an aircraft under the influence of alcohol or drugs (FUI / FWI) is a serious crime. This applies to both commercial and private airplanes. Flying under the influence of alcohol or drugs can be charged as a federal and/or state crime. Pilots who fly under the influence can be charged under federal and/or state law.

Crew members of civil aircraft are governed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The FAA rules stipulate that no-one may serve as a crew member if he or she has consumed alcohol within eight hours of a flight. Furthermore, anyone with a BAC of .04% or greater, or is under the influence of drugs or alcohol may not serve as a crew member. These over-inclusive rules indicate the seriousness with which the FAA looks upon flying under the influence. A person found violating these strict rules faces imprisonment, fines, and revocation of his or her pilot’s license.

Pilots of civil aircraft are subject to the implied Consent Law. This means that any pilot who has been arrested on suspicion of flying under the influence of alcohol or drugs must submit to a chemical test or face large fines and license suspension or revocation.

Pilots also face possible licensing issues for DUI convictions. All convictions for drunk driving must be reported on a pilot’s first-class medical application as well as to the Civil Action Security Division that is located in Oklahoma City. The relevant agencies will look harshly upon such DUI convictions.

A conviction for cycling under the influence (CUI) can result in a fine of $250. There is no jail time or license suspension. Technically, a bicycle is not a vehicle, and the dangers of cycling drunk are considerably less than driving a vehicle while intoxicated. Therefore, the Vehicle Code does not cover cycling under the influence of alcohol or drugs. However, the Vehicle Code does state that it is unlawful to ride a bicycle on the highway while under the influence. One common challenge to a CUI is that the bicycle-rider was on a private road or driveway instead of a “highway.”

Charges of riding a motorcycle, boating, flying or riding a bicycle under the influence of alcohol or drugs can carry harsh consequences. However, a skilled California defense attorney with experience defending BUI, motorcycling under the influence, FUI / FWI, and CUI cases can successfully challenge these offenses in court and can achieve results that limit the penalties and consequences associated with the charges.

Superior Court Of California, County of Del Norte

If you have been arrested for Driving Under the Influence of alcohol or drugs in the state of California, it is important to know the location of the courthouse where your arraignment will be held. If there are multiple courthouses in the county, please contact a skilled California DUI / DWI defense attorney for more information.

Del Norte County Superior Court
450 H Street, Crescent City, CA 95531

» Del Norte County Superior Court of California website.

Getting arrested on suspicion of DUI / DWI can be a frightening experience. Suspected drunk drivers face a legal labyrinth that can seem daunting. A drunk driving case generates two separate cases – in criminal court, and at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). A California attorney with experience defending drinking and driving cases can help drivers navigate through both the DMV hearing and the court case.

» Return to California Superior Courts, general information

Superior Court Of California, County of Monterey

If you have been arrested for Driving Under the Influence of alcohol or drugs in the state of California, it is important to know the location of the courthouse where your arraignment will be held. If there are multiple courthouses in the county, please contact a skilled California DUI / DWI defense attorney for more information.

Monterey County Superior Court
Salinas Division
240 Church Street, Salinas, CA 93901

Monterey Division
1200 Aguajito Road, Monterey, CA 93940

King City Division
250 Franciscan Way, King City, CA 93930

Marina Division
3180 Del Monte Blvd., Marina, CA 93933

» Monterey County Superior Court of California website.

Getting arrested on suspicion of DUI / DWI can be a frightening experience. Suspected drunk drivers face a legal labyrinth that can seem daunting. A drunk driving case generates two separate cases – in criminal court, and at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). A California attorney with experience defending drinking and driving cases can help drivers navigate through both the DMV hearing and the court case.

» Return to California Superior Courts, general information

Superior Court Of California, County of Tehama

If you have been arrested for Driving Under the Influence of alcohol or drugs in the state of California, it is important to know the location of the courthouse where your arraignment will be held. If there are multiple courthouses in the county, please contact a skilled California DUI / DWI defense attorney for more information.

Tehama County Superior Court
633 Washington Street, Red Bluff, CA 96080-0278

Corning Courthouse
720 Hoag Street, Corning, CA 96021

» Tehama County Superior Court of California website.

Getting arrested on suspicion of DUI / DWI can be a frightening experience. Suspected drunk drivers face a legal labyrinth that can seem daunting. A drunk driving case generates two separate cases – in criminal court, and at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). A California attorney with experience defending drinking and driving cases can help drivers navigate through both the DMV hearing and the court case.

» Return to California Superior Courts, general information

Jury selection is a crucial aspect of taking any California driving under the influence case to trial. A skilled DUI / DWI criminal defense attorney from The Kavinoky Law Firm has the experience needed to ensure that fair, impartial jurors are seated in every client’s case.

California criminal cases involve 12 jurors along with one or two alternates. In order to convict a defendant of drunk driving, the jurors must unanimously agree that the prosecutor has proved each element of the case beyond a reasonable doubt. If any reasonable doubt of the defendant’s guilt exists, the driver is entitled to a verdict of not guilty.

If the jurors cannot agree on a unanimous verdict, there will be a hung jury, and the case is dismissed. Even though it is not a “not guilty” verdict, a hung jury is still a win for the defense. The prosecutor may choose not to refile the case. Just one juror must be convinced of the weakness of the prosecution’s case to achieve a hung jury.

During jury selection, a pool of potential jurors is sent to the courtroom. The clerk of the court will the swear the panel in, meaning that the jurors will stand, raise their right hands, and take an oath to truthfully answer questions that the lawyers ask them about their ability and qualifications to serve as jurors. For speedy trial purposes, this is also when the trial begins.

The judge typically “time-qualifies” the potential jurors, which means he tells them what type of case it is, how long it is expected to last – DUI cases typically last from three to four days – and asks about conflicts that would prevent any juror from serving in a DUI / DWI trial.

At that point, a group of prospective jurors will be called at random and seated in the jury box. The judge typically asks each juror to answer a number of questions listed on a bulletin board at the front of the court, such as where they live, their occupations, whether they are married or have children, whether they have ever served on a jury before, and if so, what type of case it was, and whether the jury was able to reach a verdict.

The potential jurors are asked to fill out questionnaires that give the judge and attorneys an idea of whether a juror can be fair and impartial. The judge may ask each juror to answer the questions out loud, and to elaborate on any answers if necessary. If any answers suggest that the juror is biased or cannot be fair, that individual can be challenged “for cause.”

It isn’t easy to have a juror excused for cause, because even when the individual seems biased – he or she may have a relative who is a police officer or been struck by a drunk driver – the judge will usually ask the potential juror if he or she can put aside those feelings and be fair to both sides. If the juror indicates that’s possible, he or she will not be excused for cause, even if fair and impartial service seems impossible to observers.

Once the judge has had a chance to question the potential jurors, the lawyers for both sides are given an opportunity to speak to them. This is a critical aspect for the defense in a DUI / DWI jury trial, because it is the first opportunity for a defense lawyer to connect with the jurors and build a rapport with them. It’s crucial for a DUI defense attorney to make a good first impression and get the jurors to like him or her, which helps them to like the client.

There are typically strict time limits on how long the attorneys can ask the potential jurors questions, so it is important to take advantage of this time by planting some key issues in the jurors’ minds that can be elaborated upon in opening and closing statements.

Once both the defense and prosecution have questioned the potential jurors, the judge gives the lawyers the opportunity, outside the presence of the jurors, to make challenges for cause.

The judge will then ask each attorney whether wants to use any of their peremptory challenges. Each side takes turns, usually beginning with the prosecutor. In California, a criminal defense attorney gets only 10 peremptory challenges. Jury selection is complete when both attorneys accept the 12 people who are in the jury box, or when both sides run out of peremptory challenges.

A skilled California attorney with experience defending drunk driving cases knows how critically important jury selection is in a DUI / DWI case, and will use that knowledge to connect with jurors, introduce important issues, and make a good first impression on behalf of a client charged with drunk driving.