Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense that can have severe consequences. The penalties for DUI vary depending on the county where the offense occurred. In this article, we will explore the DUI penalties in Sacramento County, Placer County, Yolo County, and Butte County. Understanding these penalties is crucial for anyone facing a DUI charge, as it can help them navigate the legal process and make informed decisions.
DUI Penalties in Sacramento County
First Time DUI in Sacramento County
If you are convicted of a first-time DUI in Sacramento County, you can expect the following penalties:
- Minimum 48 hours county jail or alternate work project
- Fines plus penalty assessments totaling roughly $2300
- Minimum 3-month DUI school
- 3 years informal probation
- 6-month California Driver License suspension (but the defendant can usually continue driving if he/she drives with an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for 6 months)
Second Time DUI in Sacramento County
For a second-time DUI offense in Sacramento County, the penalties are more severe:
- 10-60 days in Sacramento County Jail or alternate work project
- Fines plus penalty assessments totaling roughly $2300
- 18-month DUI school
- 4 years informal probation
- Mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device for 1 year
Third Time DUI in Sacramento County
A third-time DUI offense in Sacramento County carries even harsher penalties:
- 120-180 days in county jail or alternate work project
- Fines & Penalties totaling approximately $3000
- Completion of a 30 Month Drug/Alcohol program
- 4-5 years informal probation
- Installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for 2 years
DUI Penalties in Placer County
First Time DUI in Placer County
In Placer County, the penalties for a first-time DUI conviction are as follows:
- Minimum of 48 hours county jail
- Fines plus penalty assessments totaling roughly $2000
- 3-9 month DUI school
- 3 years informal probation
- 6-month California Driver License suspension (but the defendant can usually continue driving if he/she drives with an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for 6 months)
Second Time DUI in Placer County
For a second-time DUI offense in Placer County, the penalties include:
- Minimum 48 hours county jail
- Fines plus penalty assessments totaling roughly $2000
- 3-9 month DUI school
- 3 years informal probation
- 6-month California Driver License suspension
- Installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for 1 year
Third Time DUI in Placer County
A third-time DUI offense in Placer County carries the following penalties:
- 120-180 days in county jail
- Fines & Penalties totaling approximately $2000
- Completion of an 18 Month Drug/Alcohol program
- 5 years informal probation
- Installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for 2 years
DUI Penalties in Yolo County
First Time DUI in Yolo County
If you are convicted of a first-time DUI in Yolo County, the penalties typically include:
- Minimum 48 hours county jail or alternate work project
- Fines plus penalty assessments totaling roughly $3100
- 3-9 month DUI school
- 3 years informal probation
- 6-month California Driver License suspension (but the defendant can usually continue driving if he/she drives with an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for 6 months)
Second Time DUI in Yolo County
For a second-time DUI offense in Yolo County, the penalties are as follows:
- 10 days in county jail
- Fines plus penalty assessments totaling roughly $3100
- 18-month DUI school
- 4 years informal probation (no alcohol during the entire probationary period)
- Mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device for 1 year
Third Time DUI in Yolo County
A third-time DUI offense in Yolo County carries the following penalties:
- 120 days in county jail
- Fines & Penalties totaling approximately $3100
- Completion of an 18 Month Drug/Alcohol program
- 5 years informal probation
- Installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for 2 years
DUI Penalties in Butte County
First Time DUI in Butte County
In Butte County, the penalties for a first-time DUI conviction include:
- Three years of summary probation
- A $390 fine plus penalties and assessments totaling roughly $2010
- A three-month drug/alcohol program
- 48 hours county jail (increasingly not allowing work release)
- 6-month California Driver License suspension (but the defendant can usually continue driving if he/she drives with an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for 6 months)
Second Time DUI in Butte County
For a second-time DUI offense in Butte County, the penalties are as follows:
- Five years of summary probation
- Pay a fine of $390, plus penalty assessments totaling roughly $2010
- A 2nd Offender DUI school that is 18 months in length
- 14-20 days in county jail (increasingly not allowing work release)
- 3 AA meetings per week
- Installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for 1 year
Third Time DUI in Butte County
A third-time DUI offense in Butte County carries the following penalties:
- Five years of summary probation, with the same terms and conditions of the 1st or 2nd Offense DUI in California
- Pay a fine of $390, plus penalty assessments totaling roughly $2010
- A drug/alcohol program that is 18-30 months in length
- 3 AA meetings per week
- A "mandatory minimum" of 120 days in the county jail to a maximum of one year
- Installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for 2 years
It is important to note that these penalties are subject to change and may vary based on individual circumstances and any additional aggravating factors. Consulting with an experienced DUI attorney is crucial to understanding the specific penalties applicable to your case.
For more information or legal assistance, you can reach out to Brian D. McGinity, Esq. at brian@bmcglaw.com or Dante C. Laird, Office Manager & Paralegal at dante@bmcglaw.com. They can provide you with personalized guidance and support throughout the legal process.
In conclusion, being aware of the DUI penalties in different counties is essential for anyone facing a DUI charge. By understanding the potential consequences, individuals can make informed decisions and take the necessary steps to protect their rights and minimize the impact of the offense. Remember, driving under the influence is a serious offense, and it is always best to prioritize safety and avoid drinking and driving altogether.