A plea bargain could work in your favor when facing DUI charges. DUI charges in California can vary depending on circumstances surrounding the case. Generally if a plea bargain is never discussed with an attorney, the penalties are as follows:
|
1st Offense |
2nd Offense |
3rd Offense |
|
| Jail |
Four days to six months |
10 days to a year |
120 days to a year |
| Fines and Penalties |
$1400 to $2600 |
$1800 to $2800 |
$1800 to $18000 |
| License Suspension |
30 days to 10 months |
2 years (which can be reduced to 1) |
3 years |
Source: DrivingLaws.org, California Drunk Driving Fines and Penalties
As you can see, the DUI penalties carry a heavy price for anyone convicted of drunk driving. But what exactly is a plea bargain and how can it help in DUI cases?
What is a plea bargain?
A plea bargain (also known as plea bargaining and sentence bargaining) occurs when either a defendant or his or her attorney and the prosecutor reach an agreement in exchange for a lesser jail sentence or reduced fine. A plea bargain also involves the defendant entering a guilty plea to reduced charges. Plea bargaining usually occurs in the judge’s chambers before a trial, over the phone or at the prosecutor’s office.
The benefit of a plea bargain
Well the main benefit of entering a plea bargain is increasing your chances of having reduced DUI charges against you. For example, there has been quite a few defendants who were able to have their DUI charges reduced to reckless driving. As a result, the defendant pays an inexpensive fine and doesn’t have his or her driver’s license taken away.
If you are facing DUI charges and need further understanding of what’s involved in a plea bargain, contact Attorney Holden Green today. He will be more than happy to help you with your DUI case and instruct you on how to enter a plea bargain. Contact the Law Offices of Holden W. Green by completing the contact form on the right to request a FREE 30 minute phone consultation, or call 408-451-8449.
