Hit and Run DUI Defense Attorney in Glendale

Experienced Legal Representation for Hit and Run DUI Charges in Glendale

Arrested for hit and run DUI in Glendale? You’re facing serious criminal charges that combine two separate offenses—driving under the influence and leaving the scene of an accident. This dangerous combination carries severe penalties including state prison time, massive fines, license suspension, felony convictions, and permanent damage to your criminal record. At Tu Defensor Criminalista, we provide aggressive legal defense for clients facing hit and run DUI charges throughout Glendale and Los Angeles County.

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Understanding Hit and Run DUI Charges in Glendale

A hit and run DUI occur when a driver operates a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs and subsequently leaves the scene of an accident without stopping to identify themselves, exchange information, or render aid. This combination of offenses creates multiple criminal charges that prosecutors in Glendale aggressively pursue.

According to the California Office of Traffic Safety^[1], Glendale reported 597 accidents resulting in injuries or fatalities in 2021, with 53 alcohol-involved collisions and 327 DUI arrests. Additionally, Glendale experienced 42 hit-and-run accidents that resulted in injuries or death, ranking the city at 38 out of 60 comparable cities. These statistics demonstrate that hit and run incidents—especially those involving intoxicated drivers—remain a significant concern for Glendale law enforcement and prosecutors.

California Vehicle Code Sections That Apply

Hit and run DUI charges in Glendale involve violations of multiple sections of California law:

California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (Vehicle Code 20001^[2]) – Felony Hit and Run With Injury
This statute makes it illegal to leave the scene of an accident when someone has been injured or killed. When combined with DUI, prosecutors treat these cases with extreme severity.

California Vehicle Code Section 20002 (Vehicle Code 20002^[3]) – Misdemeanor Hit and Run With Property Damage
This law criminalizes leaving the scene when only property damage occurred. Even without injuries, fleeing the scene while intoxicated creates serious legal consequences.

California Vehicle Code Section 23152 – Driving Under the Influence
This section prohibits operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or while impaired by drugs.

Why Drivers Leave the Scene: Understanding the Panic Response

Understanding why people flee after DUI accidents is crucial to building an effective defense. Many drivers who leave accident scenes aren’t hardened criminals—they’re ordinary people who made a terrible decision in a moment of panic. Common reasons include:

• Fear of DUI arrest and its consequences
• Panic about license suspension affecting employment
• Concern about immigration consequences
• Prior DUI convictions creating fear of enhanced penalties
• Shock and confusion following the accident
• Not realizing the severity of the accident
• Believing they could avoid detection

Regardless of the reason, leaving the scene transforms what might have been a manageable DUI case into a far more serious criminal matter. However, these human factors can sometimes form the basis of defense strategies that experienced criminal defense attorneys like those at Tu Defensor Criminalista can leverage to protect your rights.

Penalties for Hit and Run DUI in Glendale

The penalties for hit and run DUI in Glendale depend on whether someone was injured, the severity of any injuries, your prior criminal history, and specific circumstances of your case. California law allows prosecutors to charge these offenses separately, meaning you face punishment for both the DUI and the hit and run.

Misdemeanor Hit and Run DUI (Property Damage Only)

When a hit and run DUI involves only property damage with no injuries:

Vehicle Code 20002 Penalties:

• Up to 6 months in county jail
• Fines up to $1,000 plus penalty assessments
• 3 years of probation
• Restitution to property owners
• 2 points on your California driver’s license

Plus First-Time DUI Penalties:

• 96 hours to 6 months in county jail
• $390 to $1,000 in fines (often totaling $3,000-$5,000 with assessments)
• 3-9 month DUI education program
• 6-month license suspension
• Installation of ignition interlock device

Combined Exposure: When charged together, you could face up to 1 year in county jail, thousands in fines, extended probation, and a criminal record showing both offenses.

Felony Hit and Run DUI (With Injury or Death)

When someone is injured or killed in a hit and run DUI accident, prosecutors file felony charges under Vehicle Code 20001:

Felony Hit and Run With Injury Penalties:

• 2-4 years in California state prison
• $1,000 to $10,000 in fines
• Victim restitution for all medical expenses and damages
• Permanent felony conviction on your record
• Loss of certain civil rights (voting while incarcerated, gun ownership)

Plus DUI With Injury Penalties (Vehicle Code 23153):

• 16 months to 4 years in state prison
• $390 to $5,000 in fines
• 3-5 year license revocation
• Habitual Traffic Offender status for 3 years
• Mandatory DUI education program (18-30 months)

Enhancement Penalties: If victims suffer great bodily injury, prosecutors can add enhancement charges:

• 3-6 additional years for each victim with great bodily injury
• 25 years to life if the victim dies (second-degree murder charges possible with prior DUI)

Real-World Example: A Glendale driver with a BAC of 0.15% who rear-ends another vehicle on Brand Boulevard, injures two occupants, and flees could face 2-4 years for felony hit and run, 16 months to 4 years for DUI with injury, plus 3 years for great bodily injury to each victim—a potential sentence of 8-14 years in state prison before considering other enhancements.

Additional Consequences Beyond Criminal Penalties

The consequences of a hit and run DUI conviction extend far beyond jail time and fines:

Driver’s License Consequences:

• Immediate license suspension by the DMV
• SR-22 insurance filing requirement
• Dramatically increased insurance premiums
• Possible permanent license revocation for multiple DUI offenses

Employment Impact:

• Difficulty finding employment with felony conviction
• Loss of current job requiring driving
• Professional license suspension or revocation
• Background check failures

Immigration Consequences:

• Possible deportation for non-citizens
• Inadmissibility for green card applicants
• Denial of naturalization applications
• Detention by ICE during criminal proceedings

Civil Liability:

• Injury victims can file civil lawsuits
• Property damage claims
• Punitive damages in civil court
• Uninsured motorist claims by your own insurance

Glendale DUI and Traffic Statistics: Understanding Local Enforcement

Glendale’s position as the third most populous city in Los Angeles County creates unique traffic safety challenges. The city’s California Office of Traffic Safety data for 2021^[1] reveals important statistics about local law enforcement priorities:

• 597 total injury and fatal accidents (ranking 47 out of 60 comparable cities)
• 53 alcohol-involved crashes causing injuries or death (ranking 52 out of 60)
• 327 DUI arrests in 2021 alone (ranking 35 out of 60)
• 42 hit-and-run collisions resulting in injuries or fatalities (ranking 38 out of 60)
• 66 speed-related crashes (ranking 52 out of 60)
• 50 nighttime crashes between 9 PM and 3 AM (ranking 51 out of 60)

These statistics demonstrate that while Glendale doesn’t rank among the worst cities for alcohol-related accidents, DUI enforcement remains a high priority for local police. The Glendale Police Department operates regular DUI checkpoints throughout the city, particularly on weekends and holidays, and maintains dedicated traffic enforcement units.

Los Angeles County as a whole accounts for nearly 18.9% of all DUI arrests in California according to the California DMV’s Annual Report^[4], making it the county with the highest DUI arrest rate in the state. This aggressive enforcement extends to Glendale, where prosecutors pursue DUI cases vigorously—especially when combined with hit and run allegations.

High-Risk Areas in Glendale for DUI and Hit and Run

Certain areas of Glendale experience higher rates of accidents and DUI arrests:

Major Corridors and Intersections:

• Brand Boulevard (especially near Glendale Galleria and freeway on-ramps)
• Colorado Street and Pacific Avenue (near Golden State Freeway exit)
• Glendale Avenue and Broadway
• Honolulu Avenue near freeway access points
• Areas surrounding the Americana at Brand shopping center

Freeway Transitions: Glendale’s proximity to Interstate 5, State Route 134, and State Route 2 means drivers frequently transition between high-speed freeway travel and congested surface streets—a particularly dangerous combination when impaired by alcohol or drugs.

Nightlife and Entertainment Districts: Downtown Glendale’s concentration of restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues creates elevated DUI risk during evening and late-night hours, with over 50% of nighttime fatal crashes involving alcohol^[5] according to California traffic safety data.

Defense Strategies for Hit and Run DUI Charges

At Tu Defensor Criminalista, we’ve successfully defended countless clients against hit and run DUI charges in Glendale and throughout Los Angeles County. Every case is unique, but several defense strategies frequently prove effective:

Challenging the DUI Evidence

The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were driving under the influence. We attack DUI evidence through multiple approaches:

Breath Test Defenses:

• Improper calibration or maintenance of breathalyzer devices
• Mouth alcohol contamination from GERD, dental work, or recent food consumption
• Rising blood alcohol—you were below 0.08% while driving but above when tested
• Officer training and certification issues
• Title 17 regulation violations during testing procedures

Blood Test Defenses:

• Improper blood draw procedures
• Chain of custody problems
• Fermentation in blood samples due to improper storage
• Laboratory errors or contamination
• Coagulation issues affecting test accuracy

Field Sobriety Test Defenses:

• Medical conditions affecting balance and coordination
• Improper test administration by officers
• Environmental factors (uneven pavement, poor lighting, weather)
• Nervousness or anxiety mistaken for impairment
• Language barriers or communication difficulties

Challenging the Hit and Run Element

To convict you of hit and run, prosecutors must prove you knew an accident occurred and willfully failed to stop. We challenge hit and run allegations by demonstrating:

• Lack of Knowledge: You didn’t realize an accident occurred. This is surprisingly common—minor contact with another vehicle, especially in busy parking lots or during lane changes, may go unnoticed by sober drivers, let alone someone who has been drinking.
• Lack of Damage: If no actual property damage occurred, you cannot be convicted of hit and run. We obtain expert accident reconstruction testimony and independent vehicle inspections to challenge damage claims.
• Identity Issues: The prosecution must prove YOU were driving. In cases where you weren’t identified at the scene, we challenge circumstantial evidence linking you to the incident.
• Duress or Necessity: You had a legitimate reason to leave, such as fear for your safety, a medical emergency, or needing to escape a dangerous situation. California law recognizes limited duress defenses when remaining at the scene would have created greater harm.
• Delayed Reporting: If you left the scene but reported the accident to police within a reasonable time, we can argue you satisfied your legal duty to report, which may result in reduced charges or dismissal.

Attacking the Traffic Stop or Investigation

The Fourth Amendment protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures. If police violated your constitutional rights, we can suppress evidence or get charges dismissed:

• Illegal Traffic Stop: Police must have reasonable suspicion to stop your vehicle. If they lacked legal justification, all subsequently obtained evidence may be suppressed.
• Improper DUI Checkpoint: DUI checkpoints must follow strict legal requirements regarding location, operation, and notification. Non-compliant checkpoints violate your rights.
• Lack of Probable Cause for Arrest: Officers need probable cause to arrest you for DUI. If they lacked sufficient evidence at the time of arrest, the charges may not survive.
• Miranda Rights Violations: If police questioned you in custody without first reading Miranda rights, those statements may be inadmissible.

Negotiating Reduced Charges

When the evidence against you is strong, our experienced attorneys can often negotiate reduced charges that minimize consequences:

Wet Reckless Plea: Instead of DUI, prosecutors may accept a plea to reckless driving involving alcohol under Vehicle Code 23103.5. This carries reduced penalties and less stigma.

Dry Reckless Plea: In some cases, we can negotiate to reckless driving without alcohol involvement (Vehicle Code 23103), which carries even less severe consequences.

Hit and Run Reduction: We may negotiate to reduce felony hit and run to misdemeanor or dismiss hit and run charges entirely while resolving only the DUI.

Charge Dismissal: Through aggressive litigation and negotiation, we sometimes achieve complete dismissal of some or all charges.

The Glendale Criminal Court System

Hit and run DUI cases in Glendale are prosecuted by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office and heard in local Los Angeles County Superior Court locations. Understanding the court system helps you know what to expect:

Glendale Criminal Courts

Glendale Courthouse
600 E. Broadway
Glendale, CA 91206

This courthouse handles misdemeanor DUI cases and preliminary hearings for felony cases arising in Glendale.

Pasadena Courthouse
300 E. Walnut Street
Pasadena, CA 91101

Many Glendale cases are transferred to Pasadena for trial proceedings.

The Criminal Court Process

Understanding the timeline helps reduce anxiety about your case:

• Arraignment (First Court Date): You appear before a judge, hear the charges, enter a plea (usually not guilty), and receive bail information. This typically occurs within 48 hours of arrest for in-custody defendants.
• Pretrial Conference: Your attorney and the prosecutor discuss evidence, negotiate potential resolutions, and address procedural issues. Multiple pretrial conferences may occur.
• Preliminary Hearing (Felony Cases Only): A judge determines whether sufficient evidence exists to proceed to trial. This is a critical opportunity to challenge the prosecution’s case and sometimes results in charge reductions or dismissals.
• Motion Hearings: Your attorney files legal motions to suppress evidence, dismiss charges, or resolve other legal issues. Success at this stage can dramatically improve your case outcome.
• Trial: If no plea agreement is reached, your case proceeds to jury trial where the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
• Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes penalties. Your attorney presents mitigation evidence to minimize sentencing.

DMV Administrative Proceedings

Separate from criminal court, the California DMV conducts its own proceedings regarding your driver’s license:

APS Hearing (Administrative Per Se): You have only 10 days from your DUI arrest to request this hearing. Failure to request means automatic license suspension. Tu Defensor Criminalista represents you at DMV hearings to fight license suspension.

Why Hiring an Experienced Glendale Hit and Run DUI Attorney Matters

Hit and run DUI cases are among the most complex and serious charges in California criminal law. The combination of two separate offenses, potential felony convictions, and severe penalties means you absolutely need experienced legal representation. Here’s what Tu Defensor Criminalista provides:

Immediate Case Assessment and Strategy

From your first consultation, we evaluate your case’s strengths and weaknesses. We identify potential defenses, assess the evidence against you, and develop a comprehensive strategy. Early attorney involvement is crucial—critical evidence may be lost, witnesses may become unavailable, and procedural deadlines may expire.

Thorough Investigation

We conduct independent investigations including:

• Visiting accident scenes and documenting conditions
• Interviewing witnesses
• Obtaining surveillance video footage
• Hiring accident reconstruction experts
• Reviewing police reports for errors and inconsistencies
• Examining breathalyzer and blood test procedures
• Consulting medical experts regarding injuries

Negotiation With Prosecutors

Our attorneys have established relationships with Los Angeles County prosecutors. We leverage our reputation and experience to negotiate favorable plea agreements when appropriate, often achieving reduced charges or alternative sentencing that avoids jail time.

Aggressive Trial Representation

When negotiation fails to produce acceptable results, we take cases to trial. Our attorneys are skilled trial lawyers who challenge every element of the prosecution’s case, cross-examine witnesses effectively, and present compelling defense evidence.

DMV Representation

We handle your DMV proceedings simultaneously with your criminal case, fighting to preserve your driving privileges at the administrative hearing.

Protecting Your Future

A hit and run DUI conviction creates lasting consequences. We work to minimize the impact on your employment, education, professional licenses, and immigration status. Our goal is protecting not just your freedom but your future opportunities.

Common Questions About Hit and Run DUI in Glendale

What should I do immediately after being arrested for hit and run DUI?

Exercise your right to remain silent. Do not discuss the case with police, other inmates, or anyone except your attorney. Even seemingly innocent statements can be used against you.

Request an attorney immediately. Tell police you want a lawyer and will not answer questions without one present.

Contact Tu Defensor Criminalista within 10 days. You have limited time to request a DMV hearing to fight license suspension. Call us at (888) 315-3326 immediately.

Document everything you remember about the incident while your memory is fresh, but share this ONLY with your attorney.

Do not post on social media about your case. Prosecutors routinely review defendants’ social media accounts for incriminating evidence.

Can I be convicted of hit and run if I didn’t know an accident occurred?

No. California law requires knowledge that an accident occurred. If you genuinely didn’t realize contact occurred—perhaps a minor scrape while changing lanes or slight contact in a parking lot—you may have a valid defense. However, prosecutors will argue that a reasonable person in your position should have known, so this defense requires careful presentation.

What if I left the scene but called police later?

Delayed reporting may help your case but doesn’t automatically prevent conviction. California Vehicle Code requires IMMEDIATE action—stopping at the scene and providing information. However, courts recognize that “immediate” can mean different things in different situations. If you left due to panic but reported within a few hours, our attorneys can argue for reduced charges or dismissal of the hit and run count while focusing on resolving the DUI charge.

Will I definitely go to jail for hit and run DUI?

Not necessarily. While hit and run DUI carries potential jail time, actual sentences depend on many factors: your criminal history, case specifics, injuries involved, your BAC level, and the strength of the prosecution’s evidence. Many first-time offenders with good attorneys avoid jail through:

• Probation with conditions instead of custody
• House arrest or work release programs
• Residential treatment programs
• County jail instead of state prison (for some felonies)

Tu Defensor Criminalista has successfully helped many clients avoid incarceration even in serious hit and run DUI cases.

How does a hit and run DUI affect my insurance?

Insurance consequences are severe and long-lasting:

• Your current insurer will likely cancel your policy
• You’ll need SR-22 high-risk insurance, costing 2-3 times normal rates
• Rate increases may last 10 years
• Some insurers refuse to cover drivers with hit and run DUI convictions
• If you injured someone, you face civil liability beyond insurance coverage

Can I refuse a breathalyzer or blood test?

California’s implied consent law means refusing chemical testing results in:

• Automatic 1-year license suspension (2 years for prior refusals)
• Refusal can be used against you in court
• Prosecutors can obtain forced blood draws with warrants
• Enhanced penalties if convicted

Generally, refusal causes more problems than cooperation, though specific situations vary. Consult with Tu Defensor Criminalista about your specific circumstances.

What’s the difference between a misdemeanor and felony hit and run DUI?

The critical distinction is whether anyone was injured:

Misdemeanor: Only property damage occurred. Maximum county jail time of 1 year combined for both charges.

Felony: Someone was injured or killed. State prison sentences of 2-4+ years possible. Permanent felony record with lifelong consequences.

The injury doesn’t have to be serious—even minor injuries can elevate the charge to felony status.

Can a hit and run DUI be expunged from my record?

Possibly, but not until after completing your sentence:

• Misdemeanor convictions can be expunged under Penal Code 1203.4 after probation
• Felony convictions are more difficult but sometimes possible
• You must complete all terms of probation successfully
• Expungement doesn’t erase the conviction for all purposes
• Immigration authorities and professional licensing boards still see expunged convictions

Tu Defensor Criminalista provides expungement services to help clients clear their records after resolving hit and run DUI cases.

What if I was barely over the legal limit?

Even a BAC of 0.08% or 0.09%—just barely over the legal limit—can result in DUI conviction. However, BAC levels close to the threshold present defense opportunities:

• Rising blood alcohol defenses (you were under 0.08% while driving)
• Margin of error in testing devices
• Title 17 violations during testing
• Enhanced negotiation leverage with prosecutors

Lower BAC cases are more defensible, and experienced attorneys can often achieve better outcomes.

Will I lose my job if convicted of hit and run DUI?

Employment consequences depend on your occupation:

• Jobs requiring driving (delivery, trucking, rideshare) face immediate termination risk
• Professional licenses (doctors, nurses, teachers, lawyers) face disciplinary proceedings
• Government employees may face termination for felony convictions
• Private employers may terminate based on company policies
• Some employers never learn about convictions if you don’t volunteer the information

Tu Defensor Criminalista works to minimize employment impact through reduced charges, expungements, and strategic case resolution.

Protecting Yourself During a DUI Stop in Glendale

While the best protection is never drinking and driving, understanding your rights during police encounters helps protect your legal interests:

Your Constitutional Rights

Fourth Amendment: Protection from unreasonable searches and seizures. Police need reasonable suspicion to stop you and probable cause to arrest you.

Fifth Amendment: Right to remain silent. You don’t have to answer questions about where you’ve been, whether you’ve been drinking, or anything else.

Sixth Amendment: Right to an attorney. You can request a lawyer at any time, and questioning should stop until your attorney arrives.

What to Do During a Traffic Stop

Be Polite and Cooperative—But Limit Information:

• Provide driver’s license, registration, and insurance when requested
• Don’t argue with or antagonize officers
• Don’t volunteer information about drinking, where you’ve been, or what you’ve done

Decline Field Sobriety Tests: You can politely refuse roadside physical tests (walking a line, standing on one leg, etc.). These are VOLUNTARY and designed for you to fail. Refusal carries no legal penalty.

Chemical Tests Are Different: Breathalyzers and blood tests at the station or hospital are subject to implied consent laws. Refusal triggers automatic license suspension.

Document Everything: Try to remember officer names, badge numbers, time of stop, what was said, and any unusual circumstances. This information helps your attorney defend you.

Glendale Police Department DUI Enforcement

The Glendale Police Department^[6] takes DUI enforcement seriously. With approximately 300 sworn officers and specialized units including traffic enforcement and motorcycle officers, GPD maintains active DUI patrols throughout the city.

Recent GPD initiatives include:

• Regular DUI checkpoints at rotating locations
• Increased patrols during holidays and special events
• DUI saturation patrols in high-risk areas
• Participation in statewide DUI enforcement mobilizations
• Collaboration with the California Office of Traffic Safety

Officers receive specialized DUI detection training and typically charge DUI aggressively. This enforcement approach means even borderline cases often result in arrest, making experienced legal representation essential.

The Importance of Acting Quickly

Time is critical in hit and run DUI cases. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget details, and legal deadlines expire. Here’s what you need to do immediately:

• Within 10 Days of Arrest: Request a DMV Administrative Per Se hearing to fight license suspension. Miss this deadline and your license is automatically suspended.
• Within 48 Hours: Contact Tu Defensor Criminalista for a free consultation. Early attorney involvement dramatically improves outcomes.
• Before First Court Date: Hire an experienced attorney who can begin investigating immediately and appear on your behalf if you’re facing employment or personal hardship.
• Immediately: Stop discussing your case with anyone except your attorney. Protect your rights by exercising your Fifth Amendment privilege against self-incrimination.

Our Commitment to Clients in Glendale

At Tu Defensor Criminalista, we understand the fear, anxiety, and uncertainty you face after a hit and run DUI arrest. We’ve helped countless clients throughout Glendale and Los Angeles County navigate these serious charges and achieve favorable outcomes.

What Sets Us Apart

• Experience in Glendale Courts: We regularly practice in Glendale and Los Angeles County courts. We know the local prosecutors, judges, and court procedures. This familiarity provides significant advantages in negotiating favorable plea agreements and successfully litigating cases.
• Bilingual Services: We provide full legal services in both English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication and understanding throughout your case.
• 24/7 Availability: Arrests happen at all hours. We’re available around the clock to provide immediate assistance when you need it most.
• Free Consultations: Your first consultation is completely free. We evaluate your case, explain your options, and answer your questions without any financial obligation.
• Aggressive Defense: We challenge every aspect of the prosecution’s case. From investigating accident scenes to cross-examining witnesses at trial, we leave no stone unturned in defending your rights.
• Personalized Attention: You’re not just a case number. We provide personal attention to every client, returning calls promptly and keeping you informed throughout the legal process.
• Proven Results: Our track record includes numerous charge reductions, dismissals, and favorable plea agreements in hit and run DUI cases.

Alternative Sentencing and Treatment Options

California law recognizes that alcohol and drug addiction often underlie DUI offenses. When appropriate, we advocate for alternative sentencing that addresses underlying substance abuse issues:

Treatment Instead of Jail

• Residential Treatment Programs: Live-in treatment facilities provide intensive substance abuse counseling. Courts often allow residential treatment in lieu of jail time.
• Outpatient Treatment: Regular counseling sessions while maintaining employment and family responsibilities.
• Drug Court Programs: Specialized court programs for defendants with substance abuse issues, offering treatment-focused alternatives to incarceration.
• Alcoholics Anonymous / Narcotics Anonymous: Documented participation in 12-step programs demonstrates commitment to sobriety and may influence sentencing.

Alternative Custody

• House Arrest: Electronic monitoring allows you to serve time at home while working or attending school.
• Work Release: Custody during non-working hours while maintaining employment.
• Weekend Jail: Serve intermittent custody on weekends to maintain weekday employment.

Related Practice Areas We Handle

Hit and run DUI cases often involve related charges or subsequent legal issues. Tu Defensor Criminalista provides comprehensive criminal defense services including:

• Standard DUI Defense: First-time DUI, second DUI, felony DUI
• DUI With Injury: Vehicle Code 23153 charges
• Vehicular Manslaughter: Penal Code 191.5 and 192(c)
• Reckless Driving: Wet reckless and dry reckless cases
• Suspended License Charges: Driving on suspended license after DUI
• Probation Violations: VOP proceedings for DUI probationers
• DMV Hearings: Administrative license suspension hearings
• Expungement: Clearing criminal records after conviction
• Drug DUI: Marijuana DUI and prescription drug DUI

No matter what charges you face, our experienced team provides knowledgeable representation focused on protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome.

Understanding California’s DUI Laws and Penalties

To fully grasp the seriousness of hit and run DUI charges, it’s important to understand California’s comprehensive DUI laws:

California DUI Statutes

• Vehicle Code 23152(a): Driving under the influence of alcohol. Prosecutors don’t need to prove a specific BAC—just that alcohol impaired your driving ability.
• Vehicle Code 23152(b): Driving with a BAC of 0.08% or higher. This is a “per se” violation—the BAC alone proves guilt regardless of actual impairment.
• Vehicle Code 23152(f): Driving under the influence of drugs (illegal drugs, prescription medications, or over-the-counter drugs).
• Vehicle Code 23153: DUI causing injury to another person—the charge most commonly combined with hit and run.

Enhanced Penalties for Aggravating Factors

Certain circumstances increase DUI penalties:

• High BAC: BAC of 0.15% or higher typically results in enhanced penalties including longer DUI programs and increased fines.
• Excessive Speed: Driving 30+ mph over the speed limit while DUI adds additional punishment.
• Refusing Chemical Tests: Refusal to submit to blood or breath testing increases penalties.
• Child Endangerment: Having a child under 14 in the vehicle adds child endangerment charges with separate penalties.
• Prior DUI Convictions: Second, third, and subsequent DUI offenses carry progressively harsher penalties including longer jail sentences, extended DUI programs, and longer license suspensions.
• Accidents Causing Injury: Any injury—even minor—converts misdemeanor DUI to felony charges with state prison exposure.

The Real Cost of Hit and Run DUI Conviction

Beyond criminal penalties, a hit and run DUI conviction creates substantial financial burdens:

Direct Costs

• Fines and Court Fees: $2,000-$5,000 for misdemeanor, $5,000-$20,000 for felony
• Attorney Fees: If you don’t hire an attorney immediately, court-appointed lawyers may be less effective
• Bail/Bond: $5,000-$50,000 depending on charge severity
• DUI Education Programs: $500-$1,800
• License Reinstatement Fees: $125
• SR-22 Insurance Filing: $25 per year
• Ignition Interlock Device: $2.50-$3.50 per day ($900-$1,300 annually)
• Victim Restitution: Medical bills, property damage, lost wages—potentially $100,000+

Indirect Costs

• Increased Insurance Rates: Average increase of $3,000-$5,000 annually for 10 years
• Lost Income: Jail time, court appearances, and license suspension affect employment
• Professional License Reinstatement: Costs for defending professional licenses
• Lost Job Opportunities: Difficulty finding employment with criminal conviction
• Civil Lawsuits: Injury victims can sue for damages beyond criminal restitution

Total Cost Estimate: A first-time hit and run DUI can cost $15,000-$30,000 when accounting for all expenses. Felony cases with injuries can exceed $100,000 when including civil liability.

Frequently Asked Questions – Hit and Run DUI

Contact Tu Defensor Criminalista for Glendale Hit and Run DUI Defense

If you’ve been served with a Hit and Run DUI in Glendale, time is running out. Don’t face this crisis alone. Contact Tu Defensor Criminalista immediately for a free, confidential consultation about your case.