Arrested for DUI with a Child Under 14 in the Car?
While drunk driving is a serious matter in any scenario, charges of driving under the influence (DUI) can carry even greater criminal consequences if a child under the age of 14 was in the car at the time of arrest. Known legally as “DUI with child endangerment,” a conviction on these charges can expose a defendant to a mandatory minimum jail sentence on top of California standard DUI penalties. Given the severity of these types of charges, it is imperative you retain the services of a powerful Santa Rosa attorney DUI with child in a car as soon as possible to guard your driving privileges and future.
At the Law Offices of Evan E. Zelig, P.C., our trial-tested Santa Rosa attorneys understands the laws that influence your situation and can provide the tenacious defense you need to minimize your chances of conviction. Having skillfully defended thousands of accused clients and earned a Client Distinction Award from Martindale-Hubbell® for our unparalleled excellence, we have what it takes to help you get through this difficult time with your freedom and dignity intact.
Call (707) 636-3204 or contact our office today to take the first step towards retaining the quality advocacy you deserve.
What Added Penalties Can I Face?
Prosecutors tend to prosecute DUI with child endangerment cases far more aggressively than ordinary drunk driving cases due to concerns over the child’s wellbeing and a defendant’s fitness to provide care. This sentence enhancement brings mandatory jail time upon conviction, meaning a convicted person will definitely serve time in jail.
Minimum jail time for DUI with child endangerment is as follows:
- First offense: 48 hours in jail
- Second offense: 10 days in jail
- Third offense: 30 days in jail
- Fourth offense: 90 days in jail
These mandatory minimums can be added as additional consecutive sentences on top of the penalties for a standard DUI, with prior convictions only including those which occurred within the previous 10 years. It is important to note, however, that if an attorney is able to negotiate for a reduction to a less serious offense such as “wet reckless” or “dry reckless,” this sentence enhancement will no longer apply.
You Do Not Have to Plead Guilty
Many people who are accused of DUI believe that their only feasible option is to plead guilty and accept the associated punishment. This is not true! At the Law Offices of Evan E. Zelig, our team of Santa Rosa lawyers for DUI with child in a car understand the strategies necessary to contest the evidence against you and maximize your chances of securing a favorable outcome for your case. When your rights, liberty, and reputation are on the line, we are the firm you need in your corner.
Find out more about why so many clients love us during a confidential and free case evaluation. Call to get started today.