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They Were Arrested for a DUI — What Happens Now?

A DUI arrest doesn’t have to derail your loved one’s life. Here’s what families need to know.

DUI arrests are among the most common arrests in San Diego County. And while they are serious, they are also among the most manageable — if you act quickly and understand the process

What Happens Immediately After a DUI Arrest?

The driver is taken to the police station or county jail for processing
A blood or breath test is administered (if not done at the scene)
Booking and processing takes place — typically 2 to 6 hours
A bail amount is set based on the county’s bail schedule
Once bail is posted, release processing begins

For a standard first-offense DUI, the bail amount is typically on the schedule — meaning it does not require a judge and can be processed quickly.

Typical Bail Amounts for DUI in San Diego County

DUI Bail Range (Approximate)

First-offense misdemeanor DUI: $2,500 – $5,000

DUI with injury (misdemeanor): $5,000 – $10,000

Felony DUI (serious injury/prior convictions): $25,000 – $100,000+

Note: Exact amounts vary based on BAC, prior history, and judge’s discretion

With a bail bond, you pay approximately 10% of the bail amoun

What About Their Driver's License?

This is a separate issue from the criminal charge. After a DUI arrest in California:

The DMV automatically suspends the license after 30 days — unless a hearing is requested within 10 days of arrest
This is completely separate from the court case
A DUI attorney can request this hearing and potentially prevent automatic suspension

The 10-day window to request a DMV hearing begins the day of arrest. Getting your loved one out on bail quickly so they can contact an attorney protects this right.

What Are the Legal Consequences?

For a first-offense misdemeanor DUI in California, potential penalties include:

Fines ranging from $1,800 to $2,600 (plus court fees, often totaling $10,000+)
License suspension of 6–10 months
DUI school (3 to 9 months)
Possible probation (3–5 years)
Potential ignition interlock device requirement
Up to 6 months in county jail (rare for first offense without injury)

Outcomes vary significantly based on BAC level, prior record, and quality of legal representation.

Can the Charge Be Fought?

Yes — many DUI charges are successfully reduced or dismissed. Common defense strategies include:

Challenging the accuracy of the breathalyzer or blood test
Questioning the validity of the traffic stop
Arguing medical conditions that affect BAC readings
Negotiating for wet reckless (reckless driving) instead of DUI

None of this is possible if your loved one is sitting in a jail cell. Getting them out on bail is the first step toward a real defense.

How Bail Angels Helps With DUI Cases

DUI bail bonds are one of our most common services. We process them quickly, clearly, and affordably — including 0% payment plans for the bail premium.

Need Help Right Now? Call Bail Angels — 24/7

Our compassionate, bilingual team is ready to help — day or night. (619) 270-2300
We walk you through every step in plain English or Spanish and start your loved one’s release immediately.