Felony DUI

Tiemann Defense – California Felony DUI Lawyer

Defending Clients in Fresno, Madera, Kings & Tulare Counties Call 559.481.4033 – Available 24/7 Office: 5150 N. Sixth Street, Ste 172-B, Fresno, CA 93710

Experienced California Felony DUI Defense

If you or a loved one is facing a felony DUI in Fresno, Madera, Kings, or Tulare County, the stakes could not be higher. A felony DUI conviction can lead to years in state prison, a multi-year driver’s license revocation, mandatory treatment programs, and life-altering consequences. At Tiemann Defense, we focus exclusively on DUI and criminal defense—putting proven experience and aggressive strategies on your side when it matters most.

What Is a Felony DUI in California?

A DUI becomes a felony in California under several circumstances. The prosecutors must prove the elements required by California Vehicle Code sections such as VC 23153 (DUI Causing Injury) and VC 23550 / 23550.5 (DUI with prior felonies or repeat offenses).

1. Fourth DUI Offense Within 10 Years

A 4th DUI in 10 years is charged as a felony. This includes any combination of:

· Prior DUI convictions

· “Wet reckless” convictions

· Out-of-state DUI convictions

· Expunged DUI convictions (still count for sentencing)

2. DUI Causing Injury (VC 23153)

A DUI is automatically a wobbler when someone other than the driver is injured. Prosecutors may file as a felony when:

· The driver was under the influence

· The driver violated a traffic law

· That violation caused bodily injury to another person

If the injury is classified as GBI (Great Bodily Injury), additional sentencing enhancements apply.

3. DUI With a Prior Felony DUI (VC 23550.5)

If you have ever been convicted of a felony DUI, any new DUI—no matter how minor—is charged as a felony.

Great Bodily Injury (GBI) Enhancements

When an alleged DUI accident results in great bodily injury, prosecutors may add a 3 to 5 year prison enhancement for each victim under Penal Code §12022.7. GBI includes injuries such as:

· Broken bones

· Significant blood loss

· Concussions with loss of consciousness

· Long-term or permanent impairment

A DUI with GBI is considered a “strike” under California’s Three Strikes Law.

Potential Felony DUI Penalties

Felony DUI sentencing varies depending on the facts, prior record, and injury level. Consequences can include:

Felony DUI Without Injury

· 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in state prison

· Up to $1,000 in fines (plus assessments)

· 4-year license revocation

· Mandatory DUI school (18 or 30 months)

· Probation or formal supervision

DUI Causing Injury (VC 23153)

· 2, 3, or 4 years in state prison

· Additional 1-year enhancements per victim

· Additional 3-year enhancement for GBI

· Restitution to victims

· 5-year license revocation

Fourth DUI Offense

· Same penalties as felony DUI without injury

· Ignition Interlock Device (IID) requirement

DUI With Prior Felony DUI

· Automatic felony

· State prison time

· Long-term license suspension

Defenses to Felony DUI Charges

Tiemann Defense builds strategic defenses based on evidence, science, and police conduct. Common defenses include:

Unlawful Traffic Stop

Police must have reasonable suspicion. If the stop was illegal, evidence may be suppressed.

Faulty Breath or Blood Testing

We challenge:

· Improper calibration

· Contaminated samples

· Rising blood alcohol levels

· Hospital blood draws performed incorrectly

Lack of Causation in Injury Cases

In VC 23153 cases, prosecutors must prove the DUI caused the injury—this is often disputed.

Challenging GBI Claims

Not every injury qualifies as “great bodily injury.” We work to reduce or dismiss enhancements.

No Proof of Driving

If no one witnessed the defendant driving, prosecutors may not be able to establish this key element.

Violation of Constitutional Rights

We challenge:

· Unlawful detention

· Miranda violations

· Improper interrogation

· Failure to follow Title 17 testing procedures

Why Choose Tiemann Defense?

· Focused on DUI Defense – deep knowledge of California DUI laws and local courts

· Handles Serious Felony DUI Cases – including GBI, repeat offenses, and prior felonies

· Local Experience in Fresno, Madera, Kings & Tulare Counties

· Aggressive Motion Practice – suppression motions, blood split motions, evidentiary challenges

· Responsive & Dedicated Representation

Your freedom, your license, and your future are on the line. We act fast to protect your rights.

Contact Tiemann Defense Today

Free & Confidential Consultation Phone: 559.481.4033 Address: 5150 N. Sixth Street, Ste 172-B, Fresno, CA 93710

Get the defense you deserve. Tiemann Defense is ready to fight for you.