Whether it is a “wet reckless” or a “dry reckless” both carry two points on your California driver license. Both are generally the result of a negotiated plea bargain stemming from the DUI arrest and subsequent prosecution.
WHAT IS A WET RECKLESS?
A Wet Reckless, often referred to as a “wet,” is a DUI reckless driving alternative with reduced penalties for a DUI. It is a plea bargain DUI related charge, though is not a DUI conviction, the two are very similar and generally does not come as the result of DUI Trial, rather a plea bargain DUI .
California Vehicle Code 23103.5 provides if the prosecution agrees to a plea of guilty or nolo contendere to a charge of a violation of Section 23103 (Reckless driving) in satisfaction of, or as a substitute for, an original charge of a violation of Section 23152 (DUI), additionally the court shall order the defendant to enroll in an alcohol and drug education program.
Given the right circumstances in a DUI arrest report, a Santa Barbara DUI Attorney can negotiate a resolution to this lesser charge. What it means for you is less in fines, less probation, shorter alcohol program, and no court post-conviction DUI suspension on your license.
A Wet Reckless is a ‘prior’ on your record, for the purposes of DUI enhancements, which means if you get another DUI in the next 10 years it will be considered a prior DUI because the Wet Reckless counts against you just like a first time DUI.
The similarities between a DUI and a Wet Reckless are they both involve probation, fines, an alcohol class, and 2 points on your license record.
WHAT IS A DRY RECKLESS?
Dry reckless in California is a reference to reckless driving not involving alcohol, generally under California Vehicle Code 23103 (Reckless driving).
A Dry Reckless in contrast to a Wet Reckless driving is reckless driving not involving alcohol and does not go on your record for 10 years like a DUI. A Dry Reckless cannot be used against you as a prior like a Wet Reckless does and thus is a better plea bargain than a Wet Reckless.
A Dry Reckless may or may not carry a term of probation, a fine, and generally no required alcohol class.
FACING YOUR DUI CASE/TRIAL
Facing a DUI trial alone is not an option you want to take. There are serious ramifications to dealing with the legal system that will impact your life if not handled correctly. It is best to obtain the services of a highly experienced DUI defense attorney to handle the proceedings for you. If you require a trial setting in order to resolve your DUI charges, having Attorney Kenneth M. Hallum representing you will provide you the best option for a successful outcome. Each case is unique with an individual set of facts, mistakes, and legal arguments, and most important each case has a unique individual component – YOU.
When the evidence “seems” overwhelming, that is when you need a DUI attorney dedicated to DUI defense in order to make sure that every possible issue and defense is explored! You can win at trial, and Attorney Kenneth M. Hallum is dedicated to that goal. With his extensive law enforcement experience, he is a best bet for a strong and aggressive DUI defense lawyer.
Facing a DUI? Contact the Law Offices of Kenneth Hallum right away!