In California, police can pull over a vehicle, but there must be a valid reason for doing so. They cannot stop a car at random. However, certain situations and exceptions allow for a stop, even if the driver isn’t doing anything suspicious. Below are some important...
From A Former Prosecutor
Drunk Driving
Why it’s easier to get a DUI if you’re under 21
You can get a DUI at any age. Often, it happens to those in their early 20s, specifically because they are now legally allowed to drink. They start going to bars, clubs and restaurants, and then they inevitably have to drive home. In some ways, though, it’s actually...
Does the ‘three strikes’ law apply to DUI offenses?
California enacted the 'three strikes' law to deter repeat offenders of serious crimes by imposing increasingly severe penalties after each conviction. While the law primarily applies to violent felonies, a key question arises: does it apply to DUI offenses? To...
How does a DUI affect car insurance?
A DUI conviction in California extends beyond the legal system and significantly influences your financial obligations, particularly regarding auto insurance. One of the most enduring repercussions is the substantial increase in your insurance premiums. Why insurance...
When is an ignition interlock device required in California?
Ignition interlock devices (IIDs) prevent a vehicle from starting if the driver has alcohol in their system. These small breath-test devices connect to a car’s ignition and require a breath sample before operation. If the device detects alcohol above a preset limit,...
What are the penalties for underage DUI?
Drinking and driving under the age of 21 carries serious consequences in California. The state has strict laws to discourage underage drinking and driving, even for those with a small amount of alcohol in their system. If you or someone you know is facing an underage...
Can a DUI conviction be expunged from your record in California?
A DUI conviction can have lasting effects on someone’s life. It can impact employment opportunities, housing applications, and more. Fortunately, under certain circumstances, California law allows DUI convictions to be expunged from a person’s criminal record. ...
How do mental health effect DUI evaluations?
Mental health and DUI evaluations may seem unrelated, but they can significantly impact each other. As we dive into the challenges of DUI law, it is essential to consider the role mental health plays in shaping the outcome of these cases. How can mental health...
How do DUI checkpoints work, and what are your rights?
Law enforcement sets up DUI checkpoints to catch impaired drivers and ensure road safety. Officers typically choose high-traffic areas, particularly during holidays and weekends when drunk driving incidents are more likely. These checkpoints serve as a deterrent and a...
Can you get fired for a DUI in California?
A DUI charge can impact more than just your driving record; it may also affect your employment. Whether or not you can get fired for a DUI depends on various factors. Employer policies and DUIs Many employers have strict policies regarding criminal charges, especially...