What Happens if I Get a DUI While Visiting California?

 Posted on December 16, 2024 in DUI

Hundreds of thousands of tourists flock to San Francisco each year, especially in the wintertime. For people who live in the northern states, San Francisco’s sunny, stable climate offers a nice break. Being near Napa Valley and wine country is a big draw for many. However, it is very easy for visitors to spend a day tasting wines and not realize they have become intoxicated and should not drive. This can lead to out-of-state DUI charges. It might be tempting to just go home and ignore your DUI charges after you are released from jail. However, this could lead to additional charges. You will need to make sure that you address your charges. A San Francisco, CA out-of-state DUI lawyer who is experienced in working with people who do not live locally can help you.

What Happens if I Go Home and Ignore My DUI Charges? 

Many people who are arrested while on vacation believe that returning to their home state will enable them to effectively ignore their charges. After all, California police are not chasing DUI defendants across the country. If you do this, at first, it might seem like nothing happens. However, the next time you have contact with the police - such as while reporting a fender bender - your out-of-state warrant will appear. You will likely be arrested and shipped back to California. This time, you may be denied bail or bail might be very high. You might face additional criminal charges for failing to appear or violating the terms of your pretrial release.

You should also know that the State of California will report to your home state that your driving privileges have been suspended due to a DUI arrest. Your home state will likely not allow you to drive during the automatic suspension period.

Will I Face Consequences in My Home State? 

In most cases, yes. While California cannot suspend your out-of-state license in your home state, most states in the U.S.A. have a reciprocity agreement. If part of your sentencing or pretrial restrictions in California include a license suspension, your home state is likely to suspend your license.

Will I Have to Come Back to California? 

In most misdemeanor DUI cases, an experienced attorney can handle your court appearances on your behalf without you needing to travel back to San Francisco. If you are charged with a felony DUI, you are more likely to be required to appear in person several times while your case is in process.

Contact a San Francisco, CA DUI Attorney 

Burglin Law Offices, P.C. is experienced in helping out-of-state visitors address their DUI charges. Skilled San Francisco County, CA DUI lawyer Paul Burglin will strive to make handling your charges as convenient as possible. Contact us at 415-729-7300 for a complimentary consultation.