MORE FACTS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT CALIFORNIA LAW

• YOU SHOULD KNOW: If you are arrested for a DUI in California, you will face either a misdemeanor or felony criminal prosecution, depending upon the circumstances surrounding your arrest and/or your criminal history. If you have previously been convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol, those prior convictions may be used to enhance your sentence. Conviction may result in incarceration or participation in a work release program, a substantial fine, enrollment in an expensive drinking driving program, plus the possibility of other forms of punishment.

• YOU SHOULD KNOW: In addition to the criminal prosecution, the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will suspend your license 30 days after your arrest. You have the right to contest this suspension at a civil hearing and to refute the State's evidence. Issues that may be addressed at the hearing include the reasonable cause behind the arrest, the legality of the arrest itself, and the scientific reliability of the testing procedures employed by the police to determine your blood alcohol content.

• YOU SHOULD KNOW: For some offenses in California, you may avoid having a criminal record by participating in diversion. A diversion program consists of professional counseling and treatment. You will be required to attend classes. Once you have successfully completed diversion, the offense will be dismissed.