Mendocino County Felony DUI Attorney

Serious Help for DUI Charges

When dealing with a felony DUI charge in Mendocino County, California, it's crucial to have a dedicated legal advocate by your side. Our attorneys can help you understand the difference between felony and misdemeanor DUI charges, and highlight the indispensable role of a Mendocino County felony DUI attorney in your defense.

Have you been charged with a felony DUI in California? Call Wilber Law Offices today at (707) 597-7977 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our DUI lawyer in Mendocino County!

What is a DUI Felony?

In Mendocino County, as in many jurisdictions, a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) becomes a felony under certain circumstances. These situations commonly include:

• Multiple DUI Convictions: If you have prior DUI convictions on your record, a subsequent DUI offense can lead to felony charges. The threshold for the number of prior convictions required to classify the offense as a felony can vary by state and jurisdiction.
• Aggravating Factors: Felony DUI charges can result from certain aggravating factors, such as causing significant property damage, inflicting serious injuries on others, or causing fatalities while driving under the influence.
• Child Endangerment: Operating a vehicle under the influence with a child as a passenger can lead to felony charges in some states, as it endangers the welfare of a child.
• Injury or Fatality: If a DUI incident results in severe injury or death to another person, you may be charged with a felony. 
• Previous Felony DUI Convictions: If you have a prior felony DUI conviction on your record, you are more likely to be charged with a felony DUI.

Penalties of a Felony DUI vs. a Misdemeanor DUI in California

The consequences of a felony DUI conviction in Mendocino County are significantly more severe than those of a misdemeanor DUI. 

Penalties for felony DUI may include:

• Prison Time: Felony DUI convictions can lead to substantial prison sentences, and the length of incarceration increases with each subsequent offense.
• Fines: Expect substantial fines for felony DUI convictions, with the amount increasing with each conviction.
• License Revocation: Your driver's license may be revoked and reinstating it can be a complex and time-consuming process.
• Probation: Probation is often part of felony DUI sentencing, which may include mandatory alcohol education programs, community service, or other court-ordered conditions.
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID): After a felony DUI conviction, you may be required to install an IID in your vehicle. It prevents your car from starting if it detects alcohol on your breath. 

How an Attorney Can Help You

A Mendocino County felony DUI attorney plays a pivotal role in your defense. We have a profound understanding of DUI laws, local regulations, and court procedures in Mendocino County, and are dedicated to ensuring that your rights are preserved throughout the legal process.

Additionally, our felony DUI attorney in Ukiah possesses the skills to scrutinize the evidence against you, identifying weaknesses or errors within the prosecution's case. We can also negotiate with the prosecution on your behalf, potentially leading to reduced charges or penalties, as well as exploring alternative sentencing options.

If your case proceeds to trial, your attorney will construct a robust defense aimed at securing the most favorable outcome possible.

What Should You Do If You’ve Been Arrested for a Felony DUI?

A felony DUI arrest is a serious matter with potentially life-altering consequences. It's essential to take immediate and decisive action to protect your rights and future.

First and foremost, exercise your right to remain silent. Avoid making any statements to law enforcement without consulting with an attorney. Anything you say can be used against you in court.

Secondly, request an attorney. You have the constitutional right to legal counsel, and it's crucial to have an experienced DUI defense attorney on your side from the outset. Your attorney will protect your rights, investigate the case, and build a strong defense strategy.

Gather as much information as possible about the arrest. Note the date, time, and location of the arrest, as well as the names of the arresting officers. If you believe there were any irregularities in your arrest or the subsequent procedures, document these details carefully.

Do not attempt to tamper with any evidence or destroy any records related to the case. This could have severe legal consequences.

Finally, focus on taking care of yourself. A felony DUI arrest can be emotionally draining. Seek support from loved ones or consider talking to a therapist to help you cope with the stress. Remember, hiring an experienced Mendocino County DUI defense attorney is crucial to navigate the complexities of your case and protect your future.

Call an Attorney for Help Today

If you're grappling with a felony DUI charge in Mendocino County, don't navigate the legal complexities alone. Contact a Mendocino County felony DUI attorney today to protect your rights and work toward a more favorable outcome for your case. 

Call our Ukiah felony DUI lawyer today at (707) 597-7977 and schedule an initial consultation with an experienced member of our firm.