Depending on the situation, a DUI offense is charged as a misdemeanor. But as one Los Angeles DUI case proved otherwise, there are some special circumstances that can escalate the charge to a felony DUI.

Every state mandates that driving with a blood alcohol content above 0.08% is considered driving under the influence. Each state has their own interpretation of the law; therefore, they have different sentences.

As your DUI lawyer will tell you, there are some general circumstances that can raise your DUI offense into a felony DUI:

·         If the DUI results in an accident that causes bodily injuries to another person involved in the incident.

·         If the driver has had a prior DUI offense on their record.

·         If the person causes excessive property drive.

In California, a person charged with a misdemeanor Los Angeles DUI will only require probation, a short time period in jail, and depending on their case, their driving privileges and/or driver's license may be taken away. A felony DUI, on the other hand, is much more serious and can affect your credit, the ability to vote, to get a job, and more. Therefore, it is important to hire an experienced DUI lawyer who has dealt with a felony DUI in the past. He or she can fight aggressively to help you try and get out of being charged with a felony. Come for a free consultation at the Hedding Law Firm if you have been recently convicted of a Los Angeles DUI and need help with your DUI offense.