Van Nuys DUI Defense Lawyer
Aggravating Factors in a DUI Case
DUI is one of the most common criminal offenses in the United States that is committed by normal everyday citizens, average people who have a lot to lose from an ultimate conviction. The majority of DUI convictions are prosecuted as misdemeanors; however, under "aggravating circumstances" they can be prosecuted as felonies.
If you have been arrested for DUI under aggravating circumstances or under less serious circumstances, either way you are at risk of paying high fines,
license suspension, community service and much more. A
Van Nuys DUI attorney will be able to represent you during this difficult time as well as question the police stop and police procedure.
Aggravating Factors that Enhance Penalties
Aggravating factors in a DUI case can quickly enhance penalties for the accused. Aggravating factors are considered circumstances present in a DUI case that make the situation more severe because of their inherent threat to cause more harm to others. Such aggravating factors include:
- Excessive speeding
- Reckless driving
- Prior DUI conviction within the last 10 years (includes "wet reckless" and out of state DUI's)
- Driving with a minor under the age of (14) in the vehicle
- DUI with accident
- DUI causing bodily injury or death
- Driving on a suspended or revoked license
- Excessive BAC above 0.15%
Van Nuys DUI Defense Attorney
The Law Offices of Loren M. Merlin is proud to represent clients charged with DUI in Van Nuys and all throughout the Los Angeles area. We know the system inside and out and from the moment we take on your case we will question every aspect of your case from an unlawful police stop, to any errors in the chemical tests to any other violations of your legal rights. We have helped numerous past clients obtain plea bargains, reduced sentences and even dropped charges. We understand how important your driving privileges are and we will do everything to help you retain them. We urge you to contact our firm to schedule a consultation with a Van Nuys DUI lawyer from the firm.
For an aggressive DUI defense, contact a Van Nuys DUI attorney from the firm without delay.