Lakewood DUI With Injury Lawyer
Lakewood DUI With Injury Attorney
Getting arrested for a DUI of any type is an anxiety-inducing event that can have a major impact on your life. When injuries are sustained in the same incident, the consequences can be much more severe. A Lakewood DUI with injury lawyer can advocate for you and help you through this difficult period.
Our Background
Our team at The Law Offices of Christopher J. McCann, APC, has assisted the people of Lakewood and Southern California for over 15 years with their DUI cases. Our founder, Christopher J. McCann, is rated as a Super Lawyer and is a member of the National College of DUI Defense.
Overview of DUI With Injury Cases in Lakewood, California
Driving under the influence (DUI) cases are a major public health concern across the country. In 2023, 12,429 people were killed in alcohol-related crashes. In 2022, Los Angeles County ranked as the highest rate of DUI-related serious injuries, with 612 non-fatal injuries and 277 fatalities.
DUI with injury occurs when someone operates a motorized vehicle either above the legal blood alcohol limit (BAC) or is impaired by a drug. The legal BAC is 0.08 percent for private use, and 0.04 percent for commercial drivers or for those carrying a passenger for hire.
The courtroom in which your case is handled can change depending on how it is treated. Misdemeanor charges are heard at Bellflower Courthouse, located at 10025 East Flower Street, Bellflower, CA 90706. If treated as a felony, your case may be held at the Governor George Deukmejian Courthouse, located at 275 Magnolia Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802.
Penalties for a DUI With Injury in California
A DUI with Injury is known as a “wobbler” offense, meaning that it can be sentenced as a misdemeanor or felony depending on the factors involved in the case and the accused’s criminal history.
A first-time offense with minor injuries can result in a county jail sentence of between 90 days and a year, with a fine of between $390 and $1000, license suspension, and enrollment into a DUI state-sponsored program. If a second DUI offense occurs, the fine may be up to $5000 and imprisonment for 120 days to a year. A third or greater conviction can result in a state prison sentence of 2 to 4 years.
If the incident inflicts great bodily injury on another person, it will be considered a felony. These cases can be punishable by 3 to 5 years in prison, depending on the alleged victim. As with misdemeanor DUI with injury cases, an increase in the number of victims or occurrences can extend prison sentences.
Hire a DUI With Injury Lawyer
While it is possible to represent yourself in a DUI with injury case in Lakewood, the high stakes and potential impact on your future make it strongly recommended that you hire a DUI with injury lawyer to aid in your case. Your Lakewood DUI with injury attorney can be at your side for all steps of the process.
Your legal counsel from The Law Offices of Christopher J. McCann, APC, can assist you in deciding on a legal strategy. Some common defenses used include:
- You were not under the influence: Even if your actions played a role in an injury, whether you were intoxicated can change how your case is treated.
- No injury: The prosecution must prove that an injury occurred with ample evidence and that your actions were the source.
- Causation: You can argue that you were not the cause of any accident that inflicted injury, and that other parties were responsible, whether or not you were under the influence.
If conviction seems likely, your Lakewood DUI with injury lawyer can fight to have it classified as a misdemeanor rather than a felony, and help mitigate the case’s impact on your life.
FAQs About Lakewood, CA DUI With Injury Laws
How Much Does a DUI With Injury Lawyer Cost in California?
How much your California DUI with injury lawyer costs depends on the severity of the case, its complications, and the work hours it requires. A first-time offender who caused minor injury to the alleged victim tends to be less expensive than legal representation for a case centered around a driver with previous DUIs and with great bodily harm. Another contributing factor is the billing model, with different firms using hourly rates, retainer expenses, or a flat fee.
Is It Worth Getting a Lawyer for a DUI With Injury in California?
It is generally considered worth hiring a lawyer for DUI with injury cases in California. The heightened stakes of bodily harm make these charges more serious and can require extensive legal knowledge. An experienced attorney can aid you in all elements of your case and advise you on what actions to take.
Do You Have to Go to Court for a DUI With Injury if You Have a Lawyer in California?
In California, you will most likely have to attend court with your attorney when charged with a DUI with injury. You may be able to avoid some hearings if it is a misdemeanor, but circumstances allowing this are rare. Felony charges make your appearance in court mandatory. It is recommended that you be present for all court proceedings related to your case.
Does a DUI With Injury Conviction Stay on Your Criminal Record in California?
Yes, DUI with injury convictions stay on your criminal record in California. After you complete the terms of your probation or punishments, you may be eligible to have it expunged. However, if it is a felony involving a state prison sentence, it cannot be removed. The California DMV keeps a record of all DUI cases for 10 years.
Speak With a Lakewood DUI With Injury Attorney Today
The Law Offices of Christopher J. McCann, APC, is prepared to come to your aid in your DUI with injury case. We have the knowledge and experience that can make a positive difference in your charge’s results.
Contact us today for a free consultation, where we can learn the details of your case and discuss potential legal strategies for your case. You may also visit our Lakewood office, located a few blocks east of Lakewood Boulevard and a block south of Mayfair Park.
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