Los Angeles DUI and Moving out of State

Los Angeles DUI Attorney

USA mapA driving under the influence arrest is never expected and many people who are arrested for DUI are concerned about what effect a conviction will have on their lives. While some DUI defendants in Los Angeles are from out-of-state and have questions about their driving privileges and the effects of a California conviction, many defendants may be California residents who plan on leaving the state. These drivers often find themselves in unique situations and should speak with an experienced Los Angeles DUI Attorney.

A driver arrested for DUI may be leaving California for school, work or a number of other reasons. A DUI case can involve numerous court appearances as discovery is exchanged and the defense has a chance to prepare its case. Because the majority of DUI cases are misdemeanors, California law does not require a defendant to personally appear in court. An attorney can appear on his or her client’s behalf pursuant to California Penal Code Section 977(a) PC. A DUI can be charged as a felony if the defendant has three or more prior DUI convictions or if there was a victim who was injured or killed as a result of a DUI collision. In these cases, the defendant usually has to personally appear. In some cases, the judge may allow the defendant’s attorney to appear on behalf of the defendant pursuant to California Penal Code Section 977(b) PC.

Defendants who are convicted of a DUI offense are required to complete several conditions of probation, many of which are mandated by law. For example, anyone convicted of a DUI must complete an alcohol education program. Typically, these programs must be offered by a state-approved provider. However, defendants who move and no longer live in California may be allowed to complete an online education program or a comparable live program in the defendant’s new home state. It is important to remember that even if the court accepts an online or out-of-state program, the California DMV would require that a driver complete a California state-approved alcohol education program before reinstating driving privileges. This means that people who intend on returning to California may eventually have to take a California-based alcohol education program if they want to get their driver’s license back.

Defendants who move out of state will also have to deal with potential issues with their driver’s licenses. Someone who is arrested for DUI can have his or her driving privileges suspended administratively by the California DMV in addition to a suspension that is imposed upon conviction for DUI. Any California DMV suspension is communicated to other states that are part of the Interstate Compact and the defendant’s new home state would be expected to issue a reciprocal driver’s license suspension. In Los Angeles County, drivers who are convicted of DUI are also required to have an Ignition Interlock Device installed into their vehicle as a result of the IID Pilot Program currently in effect. Drivers who move out of state may have to contact the DMV in order to get an IID exemption. The driver would have to show proof that he or she has moved, such as a utility bill showing the new address out of state.

If you have been arrested for a DUI offense and plan on moving out of California, it is crucial that you speak with a Los Angeles DUI Lawyer as soon as possible. As a former Deputy District Attorney with over 14 years of prosecutorial experience, Los Angeles DUI Attorney Michael Kraut can help his clients navigate the various complex issues that may arise when leaving the state with a pending DUI charge or recent DUI conviction.

For more information about Los Angeles DUI and moving out of state, and to schedule your free consultation, contact Los Angeles DUI Lawyer Michael Kraut at the Kraut Criminal & DUI Lawyers located at 6255 Sunset Boulevard, Suite 1520, Los Angeles, CA 90028. Mr. Kraut can be reached 24/7 at 888-334-6344 or 323-464-6453.

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Client Reviews
★★★★★
Michael Kraut is outstanding! He genuinely cared about my case and instructed my mom and I throughout the entire process. He was very clear on what he needed in order to receive the best results. He kept us updated until the end. I thank him so much for getting my charges rejected. I highly recommend him to anyone with legal needs! Shaquan
★★★★★
I contacted Michael with concern for my personal and business reputation. He was very reassuring and confident the entire time. After about 3 weeks it was determined that no charges were being filed by any agency and I was in the clear of any investigation. One thing that is amazing is just how FAST Michael is at replying to phone calls, texts, and even emails! We are talking under 30 minutes in most cases. That is unheard of for most attorneys! Michael is incredible and not your typical run of the mill attorney. For best results hire him if you feel like you might be under investigation or could face charges. Even if you know you are innocent it is best to take care of the smoke before it becomes a fire. Brad
★★★★★
Michael Kraut is-hands down-the best criminal defense attorney and I can't begin to thank him for all that he did for me and my family. I reached out to him in the middle of the night and less than a couple hours later, he had gotten back to me and scheduled a meeting. He's a no-nonsense attorney who knows how to get the job done! From the second we retained him, I had peace of mind in knowing that we were in the best hands possible. If Michael Kraut couldn't get it done, I knew that it couldn't be done at all. You can't put a price tag on your freedom. He was worth every single penny. Lida
★★★★★
Michael Kraut is an outstanding attorney. He was extremely professional, and straightforward, yet sensitive with my case. I am confident I made the right choice by hiring Michael. I highly recommend him to anyone seeking a truly experienced lawyer. Daniel
★★★★★
Michael Kraut - I cannot thank you enough for all that you did for ​my son. When I came to you I read that you used to be a district attorney but I never knew how much that meant until I watch you in court. I knew it took 3 months but the final day when I heard the judge say that all charges were dismissed it was all worth it! I will always be grateful for all that you did for us. A.N.