Out of State DUI

Let a Redwood City DUI defense lawyer help you!

"Come on vacation, leave on probation." This is a common saying in many California communities to describe the state's harsh enforcement of DUI laws. Although it may be an amusing rhyme, there is nothing funny about the numerous burdens and complications out of state drivers face. If you are a resident of another state and have been arrested for a DUI in California, you can face consequences in both California and your home state. Having a California licensed attorney on your side is essential, and with the Law Office of James Dunn, you can be confident that you will have an experienced attorney who is accomplished and highly regarded throughout the state.

Interstate Driver License Compact

The Driver License Compact, or DLC, is an interstate agreement to exchange information about license suspensions and traffic violations of non-residents to the state in which they live. The motto of the compact is, "One Driver, One License, One Record." For out of state drivers arrested for a California DUI, this means that certain DUI penalties and consequences can follow them home. Only five states do not participate in the DLC - Georgia, Wisconsin, Massachusetts, Michigan and Tennessee.

DMV and Criminal Proceedings

As with any other alleged DUI offenders in California, out of state drivers will face separate proceedings with the California DMV and with a criminal court. For DMV hearings, drivers who do not request a hearing or who have their license suspension sustained will have their records sent to their home state. This can result in their state's DMV imposing similar license suspensions, consequences and requirements that must be fulfilled to have a license reinstated. Out of state drivers do not have to be present at DMV Hearings if they have a California licensed attorney appear on their behalf.

In certain cases, a California licensed attorney can also make criminal court appearances on behalf of out of state drivers. Some judges may require a driver to be present in court, especially if the case reaches the trial phase. These criminal proceedings will determine the penalties for out of state offenders, including any community service, fines, probation or jail time, all of which can create numerous hassles and threats to your personal and financial well-being.

Out of State Multiple Offenses

In many states, a prior DUI conviction can result in DUIs being charged as a multiple offense, which can lead to enhanced penalties. For example, if you were convicted of a DUI in your home state and received a California DUI, there is a significant chance that California prosecutors will push aggressively to charge you as a multiple offender. In addition to criminal penalties, your home state may also uphold or impose the harsher license restrictions. If you have a DUI conviction prior to being arrested for a DUI in California, it is highly advised that you bring your case to the attention of an attorney as soon as possible.

San Mateo DUI lawyer fighting out of state DUIs!

Receiving a DUI in any state can subject you to life changing consequences and penalties. Out of state DUIs can also impose a significant amount of headaches and hassles associated with the many legal procedures involved in your case. At the Law Office of James Dunn, you can trust attorney Dunn to handle both the DMV and criminal proceedings on your behalf, keeping you well informed throughout the entire process and tackling any complications that may arise. In addition, you can be certain that your case is in the hands of a knowledgeable and highly respected California attorney. In order to help your defense reach its full potential, the firm urges you to contact the Law Office of James Dunn immediately after your arrest.