When can the prosecution file Felony DUI charges in San Bernardino? (CVC 23153)
The prosecution can charge you with felony DUI charges in San Bernardino when the DUI offense results in a serious injury or death. The prosecutor can charge you with either a felony or misdemeanor DUI offense of alcohol or drugs that results in bodily injury to another person under California Vehicle Code Section 23153. You can also be charged with a felony DUI vehicular manslaughter offense [California Penal Code Section 191.5 (a)/191.5 (b)] or felony DUI second degree murder(known as a ‘Watson Murder’) upon the death of the victim.
The other instance where the prosecution can also charge you with a felony DUI occurs if you have multiple DUI convictions. If you have suffered 3 or more DUI convictions within the last 10 years, then the 4th arrest for DUI will likely be filed as a felony DUI in California.
A California felony DUI conviction has severe and harsh penalties including a substantial jail sentence, heavy fines, victim restitution, alcohol programs, and driver’s license suspension or revocation.
If you or someone you love is facing felony DUI charges in San Bernardino, contact the experienced San Bernardino DUI defense attorneys of Wallin & Klarich today at 888-749-0034 or www.wklawdui.com for a consultation of your case. We will be there when you call.
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