El Dorado Hills Felony DUI Attorney

Aggressive Defense for Serious DUI Charges in El Dorado Hills, CA

If you or a loved one is charged with a felony DUI in El Dorado Hills, it's crucial to act quickly and secure experienced legal representation. A felony DUI carries life-changing consequences, including the possibility of lengthy prison sentences, permanent criminal records, and the loss of many civil rights.

Walsh Law provides strategic, personalized defense to protect your future. As your El Dorado Hills felony DUI lawyer, we fight to reduce or dismiss charges, challenge evidence, and advocate for alternative sentencing when appropriate.

Let our firm get started on your defense. Contact us today at (916) 610-3558.

What is a Felony DUI?

In California, most DUIs are misdemeanors. However, certain aggravating factors can elevate a DUI to a felony offense. A felony DUI is a criminal offense that typically involves prior DUI convictions, serious injuries, fatalities, or other dangerous circumstances.

You can be charged with a felony DUI in El Dorado Hills if:

• You have three or more prior DUI or wet reckless convictions within the past 10 years.
• You were involved in a DUI crash that caused serious bodily injury or death to another person.
• You have a prior felony DUI conviction, and you are arrested for DUI again—regardless of the facts of the new offense.

Being convicted of a felony DUI is far more severe than a misdemeanor DUI. The stakes are higher, the penalties are tougher, and the long-term impact on your life can be devastating. At Walsh Law, we understand the seriousness of these charges and provide the skilled legal defense needed to challenge them.

Common Types of Felony DUI in California

Several scenarios may result in a felony DUI charge under California law. The most common include:

DUI Causing Injury or Death

Under California Vehicle Code Section 23153, if you drive under the influence and cause bodily injury or death to another person, you can be charged with a felony DUI. These cases often involve multi-agency investigations and aggressive prosecution.

Fourth or Subsequent DUI

If you are arrested for a fourth DUI within a 10-year period, your charge will automatically be classified as a felony. Prior convictions include both DUI and "wet reckless" charges.

Prior Felony DUI Conviction

If you have previously been convicted of a felony DUI, any future DUI—no matter how minor—can be charged as a felony.

DUI with Aggravating Circumstances

Certain factors can increase the severity of a DUI charge, such as:

• Having a child in the car (child endangerment)
• Driving on a suspended or revoked license
• Excessive speed or reckless driving
• Refusing chemical testing

If your case involves any of these circumstances, the prosecutor may pursue felony charges or enhancements that increase penalties.

Penalties for Felony DUI

Felony DUI penalties in El Dorado Hills, and throughout California, are severe. A conviction can result in:

• Prison sentence of 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years (or longer in cases involving injury or death)
• Felony probation
• Fines of up to $5,000, plus court fees
• Driver’s license suspension or revocation for 4 years or more
• Mandatory alcohol or drug education programs
• Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID)
• Designation as a Habitual Traffic Offender (HTO) by the DMV
• Restitution to victims, in cases involving injury or death

In DUI cases involving a fatality, you may face additional charges such as vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated or second-degree murder (Watson murder)—both of which carry even more serious consequences.

FAQs About Felony DUI in El Dorado Hills, CA

Can I go to jail for a felony DUI?

Yes. A felony DUI conviction in California can lead to state prison time, not just county jail. The amount of time depends on the specific circumstances of your case and whether there are any sentencing enhancements.

Will I lose my license?

Most likely, yes. A felony DUI can result in a 4-year revocation of your driver’s license. However, you may be eligible for a restricted license after a period of time, especially if you agree to install an ignition interlock device.

What happens if someone was hurt or killed?

If someone else was injured, you could face enhanced sentencing under California Vehicle Code 23153. If a death occurred, prosecutors may file vehicular manslaughter or Watson murder charges, which could result in a long prison sentence or even life in prison in rare cases.

Can a felony DUI be reduced to a misdemeanor?

Possibly. With an experienced El Dorado Hills felony DUI lawyer, it may be possible to negotiate a plea deal that reduces your felony to a misdemeanor. Alternatively, your lawyer may challenge the evidence and push for dismissal or acquittal.

How long will a felony DUI stay on my record?

A felony DUI conviction will stay on your criminal record permanently unless it is expunged or reduced through legal procedures. Felony DUI convictions also count toward future sentencing enhancements.

Speak with an Experienced El Dorado Hills Felony DUI Lawyer Today

If you’re facing a felony DUI charge, you can’t afford to take chances. The criminal justice system can be unforgiving—but you have the right to a strong legal defense. At Walsh Law, we understand the complex legal, emotional, and practical challenges you’re facing. We’ll stand by your side and provide aggressive, compassionate legal advocacy throughout every stage of your case.

Receive the support you need by scheduling a free consultation with our skilled team today by calling (916) 610-3558 or filling out our online contact form.