Bakersfield Aggravated DUI Attorney
Serious DUI Charges Demand Focused Defense
An aggravated DUI arrest in Bakersfield, CA, can threaten your freedom, your license, and your future all at once. You may be facing the possibility of jail, a long license suspension, and a permanent criminal record, and you may have little idea what comes next. In this moment, clear guidance and skilled defense matter.
At Humphrey & Thompson, we focus our practice on criminal defense in Kern County. Our attorneys are board-certified in criminal law by the State Bar of California, and we bring decades of courtroom experience to people accused of serious DUI offenses. If you were arrested on an enhanced or felony-level DUI, we are prepared to step in and help you understand your options.
You do not have to face Kern County Superior Court and the California DMV alone. We work to explain each step, evaluate the strength of the prosecution’s case, and build a strategy that reflects both the law and your specific circumstances.
Contact us today at to schedule an initial consultation.
What is an Aggravated DUI?
California law does not use the exact phrase “aggravated DUI” in the same way some other states do. Instead, an aggravated DUI refers to a DUI offense that includes enhancing factors that make the charge more severe than a standard DUI.
An aggravated DUI in California may involve circumstances such as:
- Driving under the influence with a very high blood alcohol concentration (BAC) (often 0.15% or higher)
- DUI causing injury or death to another person
- Driving under the influence with a minor passenger in the vehicle
- DUI while driving on a suspended or revoked license
- Multiple prior DUI convictions
- Refusing a chemical test after a lawful arrest
- DUI combined with reckless driving or excessive speeding
Because these cases are more complex and carry harsher penalties, they require an aggressive defense from a skilled Bakersfield aggravated DUI lawyer who understands both criminal court and DMV procedures.
Common Situations That Lead to Aggravated DUI Charges
Aggravated DUI charges often arise from routine traffic stops that escalate due to additional factors. For example, a driver stopped for speeding may be arrested for DUI and later face aggravated charges if their BAC is extremely high or if they have prior convictions. Similarly, a DUI accident that results in injuries can quickly become a felony offense.
Prosecutors in Kern County aggressively pursue aggravated DUI cases, often seeking maximum penalties. That is why early legal intervention is so important.
Penalties for Aggravated DUI in California
The penalties for aggravated DUI in California depend on the specific aggravating factors and whether the offense is charged as a misdemeanor or felony. However, the consequences are almost always severe.
Potential penalties may include:
- Jail or state prison time, ranging from several months to multiple years
- Thousands of dollars in fines and court costs
- Long-term driver’s license suspension or revocation
- Mandatory DUI education programs
- Probation with strict conditions
- Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID)
- Felony conviction on your criminal record in serious cases
If the aggravated DUI involves injury, prosecutors may file charges under California Vehicle Code §23153, which can lead to felony DUI penalties, including prison time and restitution to victims.
Our Bakersfield aggravated DUI lawyer can analyze the charges, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and work toward reducing penalties whenever possible.
Long-Term Consequences of an Aggravated DUI Conviction
Beyond immediate penalties, an aggravated DUI conviction can follow you for years. A criminal record may affect your ability to find employment, maintain professional licenses, or secure housing. Insurance premiums often skyrocket, and some drivers lose their driving privileges for years.
Working with an experienced Bakersfield aggravated DUI lawyer can make a meaningful difference in protecting your future.
Aggravated DUI FAQs
Here are several frequently asked question about aggravated DUI charges:
Is aggravated DUI always a felony in California?
No. Some aggravated DUI cases are charged as misdemeanors, while others are charged as felonies. The classification depends on factors such as injuries, prior convictions, and license status.
What BAC level makes a DUI aggravated?
While California law does not set a specific BAC threshold for “aggravated” DUI, prosecutors often seek enhanced penalties for BAC levels of 0.15% or higher, and even harsher penalties for BAC levels of 0.20% or above.
Can I fight an aggravated DUI charge?
Yes. Many aggravated DUI cases can be challenged based on unlawful stops, improper testing, or insufficient evidence of aggravating factors.
Will I lose my driver’s license automatically?
A DUI arrest triggers a separate DMV process. You have only 10 days to request a DMV hearing. A Bakersfield aggravated DUI lawyer can represent you in both criminal court and DMV proceedings.
Should I hire a lawyer for an aggravated DUI?
Absolutely. The stakes are significantly higher than a standard DUI, and having an experienced attorney is critical.
criminal law specialists
Recognized by The State of California As Board Certified Criminal Defense Experts
At Humphrey & Thompson, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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- Joe S.
His experience and knowing what to do helped and he has wisdom in sharing and saying the right thing to calm you in whatever you are going through. At times I was talked to as if I knew the law but when questioned what he was talking about he would take the time to explain. He is a very busy man so it seemed like he was hurried but would come back to explain. Happy with the outcome and glad that we were able to find a great attorney.
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- Former Client
Jared and his staff, not exaggerating were on top of it all. If I called to talk to the girls in the front they handled everything right away, Jared reputation for being THE BEST matched him perfect. We had issues with the anger management classes and the staff really cared and helped us. Jared helped my son who was facing some serious charges but he genuinely cared about the whole truth and we got blessed tremendously! we are forever grateful and truly couldnt have imagined the outcome had we NOT hired him! Loved them thank you so much sincerely!
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- Aimee G.
The process was easy and they made it so that I didn't have to appear in court. I highly recommended them!
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- Randy K.
Due to the distance away from the Bakersfield area I was able to deal with the firm by phone and email. Phone service was very timely and they made me feel comfortable. If needed, I would use their services again and recommend this law office.
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- Aracele S.
I’d like to express my sincere gratitude to Kyle Humphrey at Humphrey & Thompson for his help with an unexpected case. He was highly thorough and made sure I understood every part of the process, which was especially important as this was my first and only legal matter. Many thanks to you and your team!
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- Rena B.
IF you are caught in a bad situation in life and are looking for a Lawyer and investigator to fight, do their job well in fighting to prove your innocence in your case, you need Kyle and Victor on your side!!!
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- Jenna B.
My husband hired Jared Thompson to defend him against bogus charges. Their price was affordable and well worth the work they put in. Even though the DA's office was not helpful and kept delaying the case over and over, Mr. Thompson and his team never gave up. It was finally dismissed and we couldn't be more happy with the outcome.
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- Cesar M.
They were very straightforward about the possible outcomes and always seemed to be one step ahead in planning our defense strategy. The paralegal staff was also courteous and prompt in their responses, which made the whole stressful process much more bearable. I am profoundly grateful for their services. the Martinez Lugo family we loved them we really recommended thanks so much :)
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Jury Trial Acquittals
Molestation and Sexual Abuse of Minors
Mr. Thompson Secures Complete Dismissal of all Charges at Jury Trial for Accusations of Molestation and Sexual Abuse of Minors
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Case Dismissal
Sexual Abuse
Allegation of Continuous Sexual Abuse Dismissed Before Trial. -
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Felony Sex Case
Felony Sex Case based on Undercover Decoy Sting Dismissed Entirely. -
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Rape
Rape Case Dismissed Based on Defense Investigation and Medical Evaluation Before Trial. -
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Sexual Battery
Local business owner charged with sexual battery, dismissed. -
Avoid Sex Offender Registration
Sex Offense
Juvenile Client Has Felony Sex Offense Case Dismissed and Is Not Required to Register
Why Choose Our Firm For Aggravated DUI In Bakersfield
When you are searching for an aggravated DUI lawyer Bakersfield defendants can rely on, you are not looking for generic representation. You need attorneys who understand how California DUI enhancements work and how Kern County prosecutors approach these cases. Our firm was built to meet that need.
We are a boutique criminal defense firm serving Bakersfield and the surrounding communities. That means your case is not shuffled between departments or treated as another file in a large system. You work directly with seasoned attorneys like Mr. Humphrey and Mr. Thompson, who have handled more than 5,000 criminal cases over the course of their careers. This depth of experience helps us recognize patterns in aggravated DUI cases, anticipate prosecution strategies, and respond quickly when time is short.
Our board certification in criminal law reflects advanced training and testing in California criminal practice. For you, that translates into informed decisions about issues such as prior DUI convictions, injury allegations, chemical testing, and potential felony exposure. We regularly appear in Kern County Superior Court in Bakersfield, and we understand how local judges and prosecutors manage serious DUI matters.
We also recognize that communication is critical when the stakes are high. Our goal is to be responsive to calls and messages, often replying by the next business day or sooner. We keep clients informed about upcoming hearings, potential plea discussions, and key choices, so they are not left wondering what is happening in their own case.
To speak confidentially with our team and learn how we can help, call us today at .
