12th June 2013 - Over the past 20 to 30 years DUI penalties have grown harsher across the country, and California has some of the harshest DUI laws in the United States. If you have been arrested for DUI in Los Angeles or the Southern California area, contact the Law Offices of Jonathan Franklin as quickly as possible. Jonathan Franklin is highly rated among the LA DUI Attorneys, and knows California laws and the California court system.

There are a number of things which must be done; the first is that you understand the seriousness of the charge. Even without any aggravating circumstances, fines and penalty assessments can total over $2000 for a first offense, with up to a one year revocation of your driver's license and other penalties depending on the exact jurisdiction and circumstances of your arrest.

These penalties could include mandatory driving and alcohol treatment classes (such as a DUI school), community service, probation, a required vehicle ignition interlock and even, in some cases, time in the county jail.

There are things that legal counsel can do for you. The administrative hearing must be scheduled within 10 days of the arrest; if this is not scheduled, you license can be suspended automatically. Once the hearing is scheduled, you will receive a temporary license your license until the outcome of the hearing.

You can still receive all the criminal penalties, though. This administrative hearing is a civil action, but it must be scheduled and successfully defended to get your license without the mandatory DMV suspension; your Beverly Hills DUI lawyer can represent you at the DMV hearing, in an effort to successfully restore your driving priviliges.

Refusing a breathalyzer may not be in your best interest. If you are facing a 2nd DUI arrest within 10 years, you may be tempted to refuse to take this test. This will still result in the revocation of your license, and just because you do not take the test does not mean you can't be arrested for DUI. If the prosecutor feels that he has a compelling case based on the officers testimony or other evidence (such as being involved in an accident or having objective symptoms of impairment) they can still charge you with DUI.

A second DUI in California will mean increased fines, jail time up to one year, and probation for 5 years. It makes it even more important that you retain one of the LA DUI Attorneys available. There are also a number of aggravating factors, such as excessive speeding, causing an accident or death, or having children in the car that can enhance your charges making your penalties much worse.

The Law Offices of Jonathan Franklin are available for a free consultation. If you have been arrested in Los Angeles or the Southern California area, do not delay - call immediately! Jonathan Franklin is a former prosecutor who has now dedicated himself to standing up for the rights and freedom of his clients. Jonathan Franklin will provide a vigorous defense on your behalf.

If you are looking for one of the top rated LA DUI Attorneys for a first or second DUI in California, call the Law Offices of Jonathan Franklin now for a free initial consultation.

For more information please visit the given link www.jonathanfranklinlaw.com.