Were you charged with DUI in San Diego, CA, but offered the chance to plead to a “wet reckless” instead? While a wet reckless is not the same as a DUI conviction, it is still a serious criminal offense under California law. The consequences can affect your criminal record, your license, and your future.
At Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers, we have over 14 years of experience representing clients accused of DUI and related charges. Our San Diego wet reckless lawyers understand how local prosecutors handle these cases and will do everything in our power to have your charges dismissed altogether.
Contact our law offices today at (619) 357-4977 to schedule a free consultation. We’re ready to get started on your case as soon as you are.
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How Blair Defense Can Help if You’re Facing a Wet Reckless Charge in San Diego, California
Our San Diego DUI lawyers know how to take advantage of that standard. We’ve defended countless clients against these kinds of charges and are well respected in local courts in San Diego, California. When you choose Blair Defense, we can help by:
- Reviewing the evidence to determine whether a wet reckless plea is appropriate
- Challenging the traffic stop, arrest, and chemical testing procedures
- Filing motions to suppress evidence obtained in violation of your rights
- Negotiating aggressively with the prosecution for reduced charges or dismissal
- Representing you at all hearings and, if necessary, at trial
Prosecutors often offer a wet reckless as a plea bargain when they believe a DUI case has weaknesses. Even so, law enforcement and the prosecution assume you’re guilty of at least something from the start. Fortunately, the burden is on them to prove the case against you in all circumstances.
Contact our law office today for a free consultation with a San Diego criminal defense lawyer.
What Is a Wet Reckless in California?
A wet reckless is not a separate crime under California law. Instead, it refers to a plea bargain where a DUI charge is reduced to reckless driving involving alcohol or drugs. The word “wet” indicates that alcohol or drugs were part of the case.
Wet reckless pleas are governed by California Vehicle Code § 23103. Although it is less serious than a DUI, it still counts as a prior if you’re arrested for DUI again in the next ten years. This means a wet reckless conviction can enhance penalties for future offenses.
Potential Penalties for a Wet Reckless Conviction in San Diego, CA
A wet reckless generally carries lighter penalties than a DUI in California. However, it remains a criminal conviction with consequences that should not be ignored. Possible penalties include:
- Probation
- Fines and court costs
- Mandatory completion of an alcohol education program
- Possible community service requirements
- Jail time
As it is less severe than a DUI, a wet reckless may not automatically trigger a driver’s license suspension. However, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may still impose restrictions based on the underlying DUI arrest.
Collateral Consequences of a Wet Reckless in San Diego, CA
A wet reckless conviction can lead to collateral consequences beyond those imposed by the court or DMV. You may face things like:
- Higher car insurance premiums
- Problems with professional licensing boards
- Immigration consequences (for non-citizens)
- Higher penalties for any future DUI charges within 10 years
This makes it crucial to take the charge seriously and consult with a skilled defense lawyer before considering any plea deal.
Defenses You Can Raise to DUI and Wet Reckless Charges
Many defenses are available to DUI and wet reckless charges in San Diego. Depending on the facts of your case, your lawyer may argue that:
- The traffic stop lacked legal justification.
- Field sobriety tests were administered improperly.
- Chemical tests were unreliable or contaminated.
- You were not actually impaired while driving.
- Law enforcement violated your constitutional rights.
Every case is different, ultimately, which is why having a criminal defense lawyer evaluate the evidence is crucial.
Contact Our San Diego Wet Reckless Lawyers for a Free Case Evaluation
Being arrested for DUI or facing a wet reckless charge in San Diego can be confusing, as you may not know your rights and what your best course of action is. With more than 14 years of experience, Blair Defense knows how to fight these charges effectively and protect your future.
Call our San Diego wet reckless attorneys today for a free consultation. We’ll make your case our priority from the start.
