Driving under the influence (DUI) in California is a serious matter—but when a DUI causes injury or involves aggravating circumstances, it becomes a felony. For residents of Fullerton, the consequences of a DUI with injury or a felony DUI conviction can be devastating: jail time, license loss, steep fines, and a criminal record that follows you for life.
If you’re facing these charges, don’t leave your fate to chance. Partner with an experienced DUI with injury lawyer in Fullerton or felony DUI lawyer in Fullerton to protect your future.
The Law Offices of Jeffrey D. Kent is a leading criminal defense firm based in Fullerton. With over 25 years of experience, we’ve helped hundreds of clients avoid conviction, reduce penalties, and preserve their freedom.
What Is a DUI with Injury in California?
Under California Vehicle Code § 23153, a DUI with injury occurs when:
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You are under the influence of alcohol or drugs,
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You violate a traffic law or act negligently, and
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Your actions cause bodily harm to another person (a passenger, pedestrian, or driver).
This charge can be filed as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the severity of the injury and your criminal history.
Potential penalties include:
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Up to 4 years in prison (more if multiple victims were injured)
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Fines up to $5,000
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Mandatory DUI education programs
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License suspension for up to 5 years
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Restitution to injured parties
A skilled DUI with injury attorney in Fullerton will examine accident reports, BAC tests, and medical records to build your defense.
What Makes a DUI a Felony?
You may be charged with a felony DUI in Fullerton if:
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This is your 4th DUI offense within 10 years
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You previously had a felony DUI conviction
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The DUI resulted in injury or death
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You were speeding or driving recklessly while under the influence
Felony DUIs come with extremely harsh penalties, including:
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Up to 3 years in state prison (or longer with enhancements)
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Up to 5 years license suspension
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Habitual Traffic Offender (HTO) designation
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Mandatory use of an ignition interlock device (IID)
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Significant insurance rate increases
Need a felony DUI lawyer in Fullerton? We’ve successfully reduced charges and protected our clients from life-changing convictions.
What Can a DUI Defense Lawyer Do for You?
Attorney Jeffrey Kent has decades of experience fighting both misdemeanor and felony DUI charges. He uses a comprehensive approach to dismantle the prosecution’s case:
🔬 Challenge BAC Test Results
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Faulty calibration
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Improper administration
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Delayed testing times
📸 Review Body Cam & Dash Cam Footage
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Look for officer misconduct or rights violations
🚧 Analyze the Traffic Stop
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Was the stop legal?
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Did police have probable cause?
🧪 Question Field Sobriety Tests
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Weather conditions, health issues, or improper instructions could make these tests unreliable
In many cases, we can reduce a felony DUI to a misdemeanor—or even get the charges dismissed altogether.
Real Client Results
“I was involved in a crash and charged with DUI with injury. Jeff showed that the injuries were not caused by me and challenged the BAC test. My charges were dropped.”
— M.A., Fullerton Resident
“My DUI was upgraded to a felony because of prior offenses. Jeff Kent negotiated the charge down and kept me out of prison.”
— L.T., Orange County
Want to read more stories like these? Visit our Client Reviews and Notable Cases pages.
FAQs About DUI with Injury & Felony DUI Charges
Q: Will I go to jail for a DUI with injury in Fullerton?
A: Not always. With a strong defense, charges can be reduced or diverted to alternative sentencing options. Contact us for a free consultation.
Q: What if it’s my first DUI but someone got hurt?
A: You could still face felony charges. That’s why it’s critical to work with a knowledgeable Fullerton DUI lawyer.
Q: How can I fight the BAC results?
A: Breath and blood tests are not always accurate. A good attorney can challenge test procedures, calibration logs, and chain of custody.
More helpful answers are available in our DUI Defense FAQ section.
Why Choose the Law Offices of Jeffrey D. Kent
✅ 25+ years defending serious DUI cases
✅ Former prosecutor who knows both sides of the law
✅ Personalized, aggressive legal strategy
✅ Exceptional reputation across Orange County
✅ Recognized as one of the best criminal defense attorneys in Fullerton
Don’t Face Felony DUI Charges Alone
Felony and injury-related DUI charges are not minor traffic infractions—they are criminal offenses that can upend your entire life. Your job, your license, your future are all at risk.
Let us fight for you.
📞 Call now or fill out our contact form for a confidential consultation.
👉 Talk to a Fullerton DUI Defense Lawyer Today