Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense that poses significant risks to public safety. To address this issue, California has implemented strict laws and penalties for individuals caught driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs. However, in certain circumstances, a charge of “wet reckless” may be considered as a lesser offense to DUI. In this article, we will delve into what wet reckless means, its implications, the criteria for its application, and the potential consequences for those convicted under this charge.

What is Wet Reckless?

Wet reckless is a term used to describe a specific charge that is similar to DUI but carries less severe penalties. Instead of being charged with DUI, an individual may be charged with reckless driving involving alcohol (“wet”) if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is close to the legal limit or if there is insufficient evidence to support a DUI conviction.

Wet Reckless vs. DUI: Key Differences

While both wet reckless and DUI are related to impaired driving, there are some essential distinctions between the two charges:

1. Penalties: One of the most significant differences lies in the penalties associated with each charge. DUI convictions typically result in harsher consequences, including heavier fines, longer license suspensions, mandatory alcohol education programs, and even jail time. Wet reckless, on the other hand, generally carries lighter penalties.
2. Criminal Record: A DUI conviction leads to a criminal record, which can have long-term consequences for employment opportunities and other aspects of an individual’s life. Wet reckless is considered a lesser offense and may not have the same lasting impact on a person’s record.
3. Prior Convictions: In case of future DUI offenses, a wet reckless conviction may still be considered as a prior conviction, potentially leading to enhanced penalties in subsequent DUI cases.

Eligibility for Wet Reckless

Not everyone arrested for DUI is eligible for a wet reckless charge. Eligibility depends on various factors, including:

1. BAC Level: Generally, to be considered for a wet reckless charge, the defendant’s BAC should be marginally above the legal limit (0.08% for drivers over 21) or borderline close to it.
2. Absence of Aggravating Factors: Wet reckless might be considered if there were no aggravating factors such as accidents, injuries, or property damage involved in the incident.
3. Legal Representation: A skilled attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor on behalf of the defendant to reduce the DUI charge to wet reckless.

California Law on Wet Reckless

The California Vehicle Code (CVC) Section 23103.5 deals with wet reckless:

California Vehicle Code (CVC) Section 23103.5 pertains to the legal concept of “wet reckless” in California, which is a lesser charge compared to driving under the influence (DUI). This section outlines the conditions under which a wet reckless plea can be accepted as a substitute for a DUI charge.

1. Plea Agreement: The section states that if the prosecution and the defense agree, a defendant charged with DUI can enter a plea of guilty or nolo contendere (no contest) to a violation of CVC Section 23103, which deals with reckless driving.
2. Substitution or Satisfaction: The plea of guilty or no contest to reckless driving (CVC 23103) is accepted as a substitution for or satisfaction of the original DUI charge (CVC 23152). In other words, the defendant is essentially “pleading down” from a DUI charge to a wet reckless charge.
3. Factual Basis: The prosecution is required to state on the record the factual basis for accepting the wet reckless plea. This includes clarifying whether the defendant had consumed an alcoholic beverage, ingested a drug, or both in connection with the offense.
4. Conditions for Acceptance: For the prosecution to agree to a wet reckless plea, certain conditions must be met. Typically, the defendant’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) should be marginally above the legal limit or close to it, and there should be no aggravating factors such as accidents, injuries, or property damage.

It is essential to note that while wet reckless is considered a lesser charge than DUI, it still involves penalties and consequences. Defendants convicted under this charge may face fines, probation, alcohol education programs, and a temporary driver’s license suspension. Moreover, even though wet reckless is not classified as a DUI, it can still be considered as a prior DUI offense in the event of future DUI convictions, potentially leading to enhanced penalties.

Overall, CVC Section 23103.5 provides a legal option for some DUI offenders to negotiate a reduced charge, but its application depends on the specific circumstances of each case and the agreement between the prosecution and defense. If you find yourself facing DUI charges or considering a plea of wet reckless, it is crucial to seek the advice of a qualified attorney to understand your rights, potential consequences, and available options under the law.

“23103.5. Notwithstanding Section 23103, 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 punishable under Section 23540, 23542, 23546, 23548, 23550, or 23552, the prosecution shall state for the record a factual basis for the satisfaction or substitution, including whether or not there had been consumption of an alcoholic beverage or ingestion or administration of a drug, or both, by the defendant in connection with the offense.”

Potential Consequences of Wet Reckless

While wet reckless is considered a less severe charge than DUI, it is essential to understand that it still carries significant consequences, including:

1. Fines: Defendants convicted of wet reckless may still face substantial fines, although typically lower than those imposed in DUI cases.
2. Probation: Probation is a common outcome for wet reckless convictions, requiring individuals to comply with specific terms and conditions set by the court.
3. Alcohol Education Programs: Courts may mandate attendance in alcohol education or treatment programs.
4. License Suspension: Although typically shorter than in DUI cases, a wet reckless conviction may still lead to a temporary driver’s license suspension.

Penalties for Wet Reckless Conviction in California

Conclusion

Wet reckless is a charge that offers a chance for some DUI offenders to receive less severe penalties, but it should not be taken lightly. It is crucial to seek legal counsel and understand the potential implications fully. Regardless, the most effective approach to avoiding legal issues and protecting public safety is always to refrain from driving while impaired. If you find yourself facing such charges, consult an experienced attorney to explore your options and ensure your rights are protected. Remember, responsible and sober driving is not just the law; it is a commitment to the safety of yourself and others on the road.

FAQs

1. What is a wet and reckless charge?

A wet and reckless charge is a legal term used in some states, including California, to describe a plea bargain that reduces a DUI charge to reckless driving involving alcohol.

2. What is wet reckless driving?

Wet reckless driving refers to operating a vehicle with willful or wanton disregard for the safety of others while being under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It is a lesser charge than DUI.

3. What is a wet reckless driving charge?

A wet reckless driving charge is a specific legal charge that results from a plea agreement to reduce a DUI charge to reckless driving involving alcohol.

4. How many points is a wet reckless in California?

In California, a wet reckless conviction does not result in any driver’s license points since it is considered a less serious offense than DUI.

5. What is wet reckless driving in California?

Wet reckless driving in California refers to the charge of reckless driving involving alcohol, which is offered as a lesser option to some DUI offenders.

6. How long does a wet reckless stay on your record in California?

A wet reckless conviction remains on your criminal record in California for a period of seven years.

7. How to get your CDL back after a wet and reckless?

For commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders, the process to get the CDL back after a wet reckless conviction may involve meeting specific requirements and potentially serving a disqualification period.

8. How to get a license back after wet and reckless?

After a wet reckless conviction, the process to get your regular driver’s license back may involve paying any fines, completing probation, attending required programs, and potentially reinstating your license.

9. What are the penalties for a wet reckless in California?

The penalties for a wet reckless conviction in California typically include fines ranging from $145 to $1,000+, probation for 1 to 3 years, 12 to 30 hours of alcohol education programs, and possible license suspension for up to 6 months.

10. Is a wet reckless a misdemeanor?

Yes, a wet reckless is considered a misdemeanor offense in California.

11. Can a wet reckless be expunged in California?

Yes, under certain circumstances, a wet reckless conviction can be expunged in California after completing probation and meeting all requirements.

12. Will a wet reckless affect my insurance rates?

A wet reckless conviction may still impact your insurance rates, but it is generally less severe than a DUI conviction in terms of insurance premium increases.

13. Can a wet reckless conviction be used as a prior offense for future DUI charges?

Yes, a wet reckless conviction can be considered as a prior offense for future DUI charges, potentially leading to enhanced penalties.

14. Is it possible to plea down to a wet reckless from a DUI charge?

Yes, under certain circumstances, a skilled attorney may negotiate a plea bargain to reduce a DUI charge to wet reckless.

15. Can non-residents of California receive a wet reckless charge in the state?

Yes, non-residents of California can receive a wet reckless charge in the state if they are arrested for reckless driving involving alcohol.

16. Will a wet reckless show up on a background check?

Yes, a wet reckless conviction will show up on a criminal background check.

17. Is a wet reckless conviction eligible for expungement in California?

Yes, in many cases, a wet reckless conviction is eligible for expungement in California after fulfilling probation and other requirements.

18. How does a wet reckless affect my car insurance?

While a wet reckless conviction may result in an increase in car insurance rates, it is generally less severe than a DUI conviction in terms of premium hikes.

19. Can a wet reckless conviction be used against me in future legal proceedings?

Yes, a wet reckless conviction can be used as evidence in future legal proceedings, especially if you are charged with DUI again.

20. Can I avoid having a wet reckless on my record with a good attorney?

A skilled attorney may be able to negotiate for a reduction of charges or an alternative plea that could avoid having a wet reckless on your record.

21. Does a wet reckless conviction require mandatory DUI classes?

While not mandatory, a wet reckless conviction may still require attendance in alcohol education programs.

22. Can a wet reckless be charged for drug-related offenses?

No, a wet reckless charge is specific to reckless driving involving alcohol and does not apply to drug-related offenses.

23. Can a wet reckless be expunged earlier than seven years in California?

Yes, depending on the circumstances and successful completion of probation, it may be possible to expunge a wet reckless conviction earlier than seven years.

24. Can a wet reckless charge be challenged in court?

Yes, like any criminal charge, a wet reckless charge can be challenged in court with the help of a defense attorney.

25. Does a wet reckless conviction impact professional licenses?

A wet reckless conviction may have implications for certain professional licenses, depending on the specific licensing board’s regulations.

26. Can I get a restricted license after a wet reckless conviction?

In many cases, it is possible to obtain a restricted driver’s license after a wet reckless conviction, allowing driving to specific locations, such as work or alcohol education programs.

27. Can an expunged wet reckless conviction be used against me in a job application?

Generally, after expungement, you are not required to disclose the wet reckless conviction in most job applications.

28. Is wet reckless considered a serious offense in California?

While wet reckless is a misdemeanor, it is generally considered a less serious offense compared to a standard DUI.

29. Can a wet reckless be reduced to a non-alcohol-related reckless driving charge?

In some cases, a wet reckless charge may be reduced to a non-alcohol-related reckless driving charge, depending on the specific circumstances and negotiations.

30. Can a wet reckless be challenged in DMV administrative hearings?

Yes, a wet reckless charge can be challenged in DMV administrative hearings if you want to contest license suspension.