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Washout Periods in DUI / DWI cases

The 10-Day Rule

California has a 10-day rule for DUI cases. Some states have a 15-day rule for drunk driving arrests. Some states don't have any rule at all for DWI's. That's why it is so very important to talk to a qualified drunk driving lawyer in your area.

So, what is the 10-day rule all about?

When someone is arrested for drunk driving, it usually triggers two cases: the first one is the court case, where the punishment can include jail, fines, alcohol education classes, an ignition interlock device being ordered into your car, your car insurance going up, and more. The second case is the Department of Motor Vehicles case, where your states driver's license authority is trying to take away your license because of the DUI arrest.

The amount of time your license will be suspended, and the ability to obtain a "hardship" or restricted license will vary, depending on whether this is a first-offense or multiple-offense DUI, the state where the arrest took place, and whether a chemical test was given or whether it is a "refusal" case.

A skilled DUI or DWI defense lawyer is your best chance of avoiding these penalties. The law is different in each state, so please dial 1.800.DUI.LAWS or 1.800.DWI.LAWS to speak to a lawyer in your area right away. Or, if you prefer, CLICK HERE to fill out a Fight Your Case online evaluation, so a drunk driving defense lawyer can contact you by phone or email. Or, CLICK HERE to find a lawyer in your area that concentrates his or her practice on drunk driving defense.