In 2007, David Hasselhoff was infamously videotaped eating a cheeseburger while intoxicated. For many who have seen the video, he will forever be linked to alcohol consumption. More than five years later, his daughter Hayley has been charged with driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) and speeding in connection with an alleged incident that occurred after the holidays in Los Angeles.
According to a report by RadarOnline.com, prosecutors have filed charges against the aspiring actress. She now faces up to six months of incarceration. Her mother, and Hasselfhoff’s ex-wife, was arrested for DUI in 2009 and 2010. She was sentenced to wear an ankle bracelet for six months that monitored the amount of alcohol in her system.
Under California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a), “It is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle.” Motorists who are facing DUI charges in Los Angeles will need representation from a skilled defense attorney because the potential penalties that could result from a conviction are severe.
DUIs are “priorable” offenses in California. This means that every successive drunk driving conviction within a 10-year period will result in additional penalties. Even first- time offenders could face informal probation for three to five years, DUI fines between $390 and $1,000, jail sentences of up to six months, a three- or nine-month court-approved treatment program, and a six- to 10-month driver’s license suspension.
A skilled defense attorney can either fight the charges or negotiate for reduced penalties. For example, a knowledgeable DUI attorney can help someone have a license suspension converted into a restricted license. It may also be possible to avoid a jail sentence through alternative sentencing options. The reputed attorneys at Sitkoff & Hanrahan, LLP offer free consultations at (866) 430-8383 to anyone who has been accused of driving under the influence.