I just received a DUI with a court date in San Fernando Court. I have a previous DWI from another state. Will that affect the current DUI charge? Are DUI’s and DWI’s the same?

Question: I just received a DUI with a court date in San Fernando Court. I have a previous DWI from another state. Will that affect the current DUI charge? Are DUI’s and DWI’s the same?

Answer: Was your previous DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) within the last 10 years? If so, it is likely that the DUI charge in San Fernando Court will be charged as a 2nd offense DUI.  That being said, there are often slight variations in DUI/DWI statutes from one state to the other.  I have been successful in getting prior DUI’s from out of state stricken from the complaint (ie.  getting a charge originally filed as a 2nd DUI down to a 1st DUI).

What state is your prior DWI in?

Are you the person who called me from Encino and left a message? If so, the phone number didn’t come through clearly, please call again to see how I can help you.

Sincerely,

Phil Hache
DUI & Criminal Defense Attorney
Representing clients throughout socal, including Van Nuys, San Fernando, Burbank, Glendale, Pasadena, Santa Clarita, Inglewood, Compton, Bellflower, Airport Court, Alhambra, and other Courts