Criminal prosecution involves:
• State/district attorney as prosecutor
• Charges against drunk driver
• "Beyond reasonable doubt" standard
• Penalties: jail, fines, license suspension
• No direct compensation to victim
Criminal DUI Cases
Civil Lawsuits
Civil lawsuits involve:
• You (victim) as plaintiff
• Lawsuit against drunk driver
• "Preponderance of evidence" (51%)
• Goal: monetary compensation
• Can include punitive damages
Both cases proceed independently.
• You (victim) as plaintiff
• Lawsuit against drunk driver
• "Preponderance of evidence" (51%)
• Goal: monetary compensation
• Can include punitive damages
Both cases proceed independently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer for both cases?
The DA handles the criminal case. You need your own lawyer for the civil lawsuit to recover compensation. We focus on your civil case.
Related Resources
→
Same Day Appointment Accident Doctor
Need to see a doctor after a car accident today? We connect DUI accident victims with doctors offering same-day appointments.
dui accidents→
24/7 DUI Accident Lawyer Los Angeles
DUI accident lawyer available 24/7 in Los Angeles. Day or night, weekends, holidays – we're here when drunk driving accidents happen.
dui accidents→
DUI Accident Attorney Near Me - No Fee Unless We Win
DUI accident attorney working on contingency. You pay nothing unless we win your case. Free consultation, no upfront costs.
dui accidents→
Proving Fault in California Car Accidents: Evidence Guide
Learn how to prove fault in California car accidents with our comprehensive evidence guide. Get expert legal help to maximize your claim. Free consultation.
car accidents→
Fatigued Driving Accidents in California: Legal Rights
Injured by a drowsy driver in California? Learn your legal rights, compensation options, and how to prove fault. Free consultation with expert attorneys.
car accidents→
Airbag Failure Car Accidents in California: Legal Rights
Airbag didn't deploy in your California car accident? Learn your legal rights, who's liable, and how to maximize compensation. Free consultation.
car accidentsExplore Related Topics
Why Choose Our DUI Accident Lawyers?
💰
No Win, No Fee
You pay nothing unless we win your case
📞
24/7 Availability
Always here when you need us
🏆
Punitive Damages Experts
Maximize your DUI claim recovery
⚖️
Free Consultation
Get expert advice at no cost