California DUI Fines

When a person is found guilty of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, DUI fines can be a part of his/her penalty. DUI fines may be subject to the discretion of the judge presiding over the DUI related case. Nature of fines depends on the type of DUI charge a defendant may face. There are two types of DUI fines namely criminal fines and restitution. The former are generally imposed in a criminal case, while restitution ordered in a civil case. As criminal DUI fines are intended to punish the offender for their crimes, restitution fines are intended to compensate the victim of personal injury or other losses as a result of a DUI accident. State's motor vehicle department can also impose DUI fines by revoking offender's license permanently or for a period of time. DUI fines also include changes in the insurance premiums to be paid for automobile insurance.

The factors that affect DUI fines include the specific facts of a defendant