What Are the Consequences of a DUI with a Child in the Car in Сalifornia?

When a child is involved, the already stressful situation of being charged with DUI or DWI can quickly become considerably more problematic. The stakes are automatically raised in California when a youngster is a passenger in your car during a DUI incident. Given that you could endanger a kid in addition to your own life, the law treats this case very seriously.

It might be quite difficult to deal with these charges, but you can manage the issue by being aware of the repercussions and your legal choices. What you should know about DUI cases involving a minor passenger and how they may affect your future is provided here.

Enhanced Penalties for DUI with a Child Passenger

Section 23572 of the California Vehicle Code stipulates that DUI charges involving a minor under the age of 14 carry harsher penalties. The extra penalties you can anticipate are as follows:

• Additional Jail Time: Having a youngster in the car when you were charged with DWI carries a penalty of additional jail time. Numerous factors, such as whether this is your first offense or a repeat charge, as well as your blood alcohol content at the time of the DUI arrest, might affect how long it takes. What to anticipate from recurring costs is as follows:
  • At least 48 additional hours in jail for the first offense
  • A minimum of ten additional days in jail for a second offense
  • A minimum of 30 more days in jail for a third offense
  • Fourth or more: At least 90 additional days in jail

However, you might face up to six years if the court finds you guilty of endangering the safety of a child.

• Higher Fines: If you are found guilty of DUI with a minor passenger, you may be subject to higher fines. This frequently comes to a total of several thousand dollars.
• Required DUI Courses: You can be required by the court to finish a more rigorous DUI/DWI education course, which could be longer and more thorough.

Child Endangerment Charges

Having a minor in the car while driving can result in charges of child abuse or child endangerment, in addition to DUI-specific sanctions. If your acts harm a child’s health or safety, you may be prosecuted for child endangerment under California Penal Code Section 273a. These accusations typically make the case worse and may lead to:

1. Criminal Charges: Depending on the specifics, charges of child endangerment may be either misdemeanors or felonies. A felony charge may result in increased jail time and penalties. 
2. Child Protective Services Involvement: If the child is in grave danger, law enforcement may contact Child Protective Services (CPS). Parenting rights may be lost or restricted as a result of this. 

Impact on Your Driving Record and License

1. Extended License Suspension: A DUI conviction involving a minor passenger may lead to a longer license suspension. The greater danger and seriousness of the offense are reflected in the additional penalty.
2. Ignition Interlock Device (IID): Your car may be equipped with an IID due to a number of aggravating circumstances, such as a minor in the car. If alcohol is found on your breath, this device stops you from starting your car.
3. Higher Insurance premiums: Auto insurance premiums are higher for DUI or DWI involving children.

Seeking Legal Assistance

Having a child in the car while facing DUI or DWI accusations necessitates having knowledgeable legal counsel. A knowledgeable DUI lawyer can assist you in comprehending your legal rights, investigating defense tactics, and pursuing a successful outcome.

We at My Rights Law are committed to offering you understanding and informed assistance throughout this time. Both within and outside of the courtroom, our skilled lawyers will be there for you at every turn. Call (888) 702-8882 to speak with us about your case and to learn more about your legal options if you are being charged with driving under the influence when a minor is in the vehicle. Together, let’s defend your rights.

Legal Defense Strategies

Do not give up right away if you are facing a DUI charge and a youngster is in the vehicle! These are some strategies you and your attorney can use to strengthen your case. Here are a few of them:

1. Contesting the Proof: The DUI case’s supporting evidence may be contested by your defense lawyer. This may entail casting doubt on the reliability of sobriety testing, the legality of the traffic stop, and any possible legal errors committed by the police.
2. Factors that mitigate: The court may hear mitigating factors from the criminal defense attorney. For example, exhibiting evidence of appropriate parenting or proving that you are conscious of and working on your substance use.
3. Exploring Alternative Sentences: Depending on the circumstances, your attorney may negotiate for alternative sentencing options. These can include community service or rehabilitation programs.

Long-Term Consequences of a DUI with a Child in the Car

A DUI conviction with a child passenger can have an effect far beyond the legal penalties. From professional setbacks to personal challenges, the conviction can have lasting consequences.

Effects on Employment and Professional Licenses

Many employers conduct background checks, and a DWI conviction, especially one involving child endangerment, can make it difficult to get or keep a job. This is especially true for professions that require driving, working with children, or holding specific state licenses, like all kinds of drivers, nurses, teachers, etc.

Implications for Custody and Family Law

A DUI conviction with a child in the car will probably be used against you in family court if you are sharing parenting duties or are involved in a custody dispute. The opposing parent might contend that your behavior shows carelessness, which could give you a legal disadvantage.

Impact on Emotions and Society

In addition to the financial and legal ramifications, DWIs involving minors are stigmatized in society. Relationships may suffer if friends, family, and community members have a bad opinion of the occurrence.

Immediate Moves After Getting a DUI

Do something right away if you are accused of DUI! You can get some advantages that will affect the case’s result even before the court hears it.

Seek Legal Assistance Right Away

The first step is to hire a skilled DUI/DWI lawyer. They can assist in developing a defense plan, assessing the evidence, and spotting any procedural mistakes. By doing this, you can reduce fines or perhaps ask for the case to be dismissed.

Recognize Your Options and Rights

You are entitled to contest the validity of the traffic stop, field sobriety testing, and breathalyzer findings. To ascertain whether any of these elements can be utilized in your defense, a DUI lawyer can examine the particulars of your case. For additional information, call (888) 702-8882 to reach MyRightsLaw. 

Be Active in Demonstrating Accountability

Enroll in an alcohol education or treatment program if you are being charged with DUI. Showing the court that you take the matter seriously and make an effort to become better helps. This might be useful while attempting to negotiate a lighter sentence.