DUI with Injury in California
Being charged with a DUI with injury in California is one of the most serious offenses a driver can face. Unlike a standard DUI, this charge involves causing injury to another person — which can turn your case into a felony and lead to severe penalties.
If you or a loved one has been arrested, you need an experienced California DUI lawyer to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future.
What Is a DUI with Injury Charge in California?
Under California Vehicle Code 23153, a DUI with injury occurs when someone drives under the influence of alcohol or drugs and causes physical harm to another person.
Even minor injuries can lead to this charge, and prosecutors often pursue these cases aggressively.
A DUI with injury can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the extent of the injuries and your prior record.
California DUI with Injury Penalties & Consequences
The penalties for this offense are far more serious than for a standard DUI. They can include:
- Up to 4 years in state prison (more if injuries are severe)
- License suspension or revocation
- Fines and restitution to injured parties
- Mandatory DUI education programs
- Probation and possible installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
A felony conviction can also affect your job, professional license, and even your immigration status. That’s why you need a skilled attorney on your side from day one.
Steps to Take After an Arrest
If you’ve been arrested for a DUI with injury, take these steps immediately:
- Stay calm and exercise your right to remain silent
- Do not discuss details with police until you have a lawyer present
- Document everything you remember about the incident
- Contact an experienced California DUI attorney as soon as possible
The earlier you involve a lawyer, the stronger your defense will be.
Why You Need an Experienced DUI Attorney
DUI cases involving injuries are complex — both legally and scientifically. The prosecution must prove not only that you were impaired, but also that your actions directly caused the injury.
An experienced DUI attorney knows how to challenge every part of the case — from the arrest procedure to the reliability of blood or breath tests.
Your lawyer can:
- Investigate whether the police followed proper protocol
- Challenge field sobriety and BAC test results
- Negotiate to reduce charges or penalties
- Defend you aggressively in court if needed
How California Criminal Defense Center Can Help You?
At California Criminal Defense Center, we have successfully defended countless clients facing DUI with injury charges across California.
We will:
- Review your case in detail
- Identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence
- Build a strong defense strategy
- Work to reduce your charges or get them dismissed entirely
Our goal is to protect your freedom, your record, and your peace of mind.
Our Proven Results in DUI with Injury Cases
We’ve helped many clients avoid jail time, reduce felony charges to misdemeanors, and even get their cases dismissed entirely.
Our track record of success comes from deep knowledge of California DUI law, skilled negotiation, and relentless courtroom defense.
Why Choose California Criminal Defense Center for Your DUI with Injury
- Over 20 years of DUI defense experience
- Personalized legal strategy for every client
- Free, confidential consultation
- Available 24/7 for urgent legal help
We treat every client with respect and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome.
Work with expert lawyers
Unlike many law offices that assign client cases to young associates, attorney Ardalon Fakhimi will personally handle all significant aspects of your Underage DUI case from start to finish, including all settlement discussions, negotiations, and the trial. He will personally answer all of your questions and navigate you through every stage of your case. We never use inexperienced associates who are just learning the practice of DUI law and criminal law. Similarly, we are NOT a high volume law office. Rather, we emphasize a very personalized attorney-client relationship where our clients are in continuous contact with their DUI and criminal lawyer; not their lawyer’s assistant. Finally, we are a detail-oriented law office that meticulously strategizes every case. That means no stone remains unturned during the course of our representation and through the final disposition of your case.
We serve clients from Sherman Oaks, Van Nuys, Torrance, for Domestic Violence, Petty Thefts, DUI Under-21 Cases.
What Our Clients Say
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is a DUI with injury always a felony in California?
Not always. It can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances and the severity of injuries.
Can I go to jail for a first-time DUI with injury?
Yes. Even a first offense can lead to jail time if another person was injured.
Can my DUI with injury charge be reduced?
Yes. With a strong defense, your lawyer may be able to reduce the charge to a standard DUI or even get it dismissed.
How long does a DUI with injury stay on my record?
A DUI conviction typically stays on your driving record for 10 years in California.
Contact Our California DUI Lawyer Today
Don’t face these charges alone.
Call California Criminal Defense Center today for a free and confidential consultation.
We’ll review your case, explain your options, and fight to protect your future.