California law allows prosecutors to elevate charges for driving under the influence based upon prior convictions in the past ten years. That is, prior convictions within that 10-year period can elevate new DUI charges to a higher level offense and increase potential exposure to jail or prison time. A recent case involving a Soquel man looked directly at the issue.
The 21-year-old Soquel man was accused drunk driving after a solo-vehicle car accident in November 2010. The accused suffered injuries in the crash. Police claim he had been speeding before losing control of his car. Authorities say the driver had a blood alcohol level of 0.15 percent after the crash. The man was originally charged with misdemeanor DUI after the crash. However, prosecutors sought to elevate the charge to a felony DUI based upon the Soquel man’s juvenile record.
In Utah there is this same chance of procedure. If you have been charged with a DUI in Utah and have criminal past whether in juvenile or district court you need an attorney to protect your interest. Give Arnold, Wadsworth & Coggins Attorneys a call today for a free consultation at (801) 475-0123.
