Ventura County has become notorious for being one of the toughest jurisdictions on driving under the influence (DUI). Motorists who are convicted of DUI in Ventura or any city in the County can face a number of penalties and restrictions depending on the nature of their crime and their criminal history. Whether it is a first time DUI, a multiple offense, or a felony, the penalties can be severe and may include:
- Large fines and fees
- Terms of imprisonment
- Probation
- Driver's license suspension
- Mandatory alcohol or DUI education
Aside from these penalties, some drivers in Ventura County may be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) as part of their punishment or terms of probation. An IID essentially acts as a breathalyzer that drivers must blow into in order to start their vehicle. If any amount of alcohol registers, the vehicle will not start. Drivers will also need to blow into the IID periodically while driving to ensure they are
IIDs create considerable inconvenience and additional restrictions on drivers. Additionally, courts will also require drivers to cover the costs of installing an IID, removing an IID, and having the device routinely calibrated, sometimes on a monthly basis
Increasingly, Ventura County is imposing the IID requirement in a wide range of DUI cases. Although individuals convicted of a multiple DUI offense often face the IID requirement, many first-time DUI convictions also result in mandatory IID installation.
Because ignition interlock devices do pose financial burdens and inconvenience, motorists accused of driving under the influence can fight to avoid this penalty by enlisting the representation of experienced DUI lawyers who can challenge not only the government’s case in criminal court, but also any terms of suspension, revocation, and administrative license penalties with the Department of Motor Vehicles.
While defense strategies and available options depend on the unique facts of a case, ignition interlock devices may be an appropriate solution for convicted individuals who wish to preserve their ability to drive. Driver’s license suspension is one of the most burdensome penalties associated with a DUI conviction, as it can greatly limit a person’s ability to handle the demands of daily life, including transporting themselves to work. By having an IID, drivers who are convicted of DUI can still retain the ability to operate their vehicles without the risks of being arrested and charged with driving on a suspended license.
At Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP, our Ventura DUI attorneys are intent on protecting the overall well-beings of our clients. We use our experience and insight into the DUI process to represent clients during both criminal proceedings and DMV hearings. We can help local residents facing DUI allegations understand the penalties at stake, ignition interlock device requirements, and how our legal team can help.
For a FREE consultation, contact us today.
