Sometimes Connecticut residents travel to other states, like California, for business or pleasure and have the unfortunate luck to be charged with a DUI. If this happens to you, you should first find a qualified DUI lawyer in California, but you should also be aware of how Connecticut’s DMV will treat you upon your return.

If you have been convicted of a DUI in California, you would be convicted of violating California Vehicle Code Section 23152.

California DUI Penalties

In California, the penalties for DUI can range depending on the number of prior DUI offenses you have.

First offense: This conviction will result in a jail sentence between 96 hours and six months, a fine of $390-$1,000,, and participation in a drug/alcohol problem assessment program.

Second offense: The penalties for a second offense include a jail sentence of 90 days to one year, a fine of $390-$5,000, and participation in a drug/alcohol problem assessment program.

Third offense: This conviction will result in a jail sentence of 120 days to one year, a fine of $1,015-$5,000, and participation in a drug/alcohol problem assessment program.

Fourth/subsequent offense: This offense is punishable by 16 months to three years in state prison or 180 days to one year in jail, a fine of $1,015-$5,000, and participation in a drug/alcohol problem assessment program.

If you are a Connecticut resident who has been charged with or convicted of DUI in California, you should be aware that there are repercussions on your Connecticut license in your home state in addition to any license impact in California as set forth above. Contact our firm for more information.