Los Angeles Exhibition of Speed Defense: Understanding California VC § 23109(c) Charges

Facing exhibition of speed charges in Los Angeles can lead to serious consequences, including fines, jail time, license suspension, and a criminal record that impacts your driving privileges and personal life. Under California Vehicle Code § 23109(c), exhibition of speed involves intentionally driving in a manner to show off or attract attention, such as burnouts or rapid acceleration. At Rogers | Beltran LLP, our experienced Los Angeles exhibition of speed defense attorneys are dedicated to protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible outcome. Below, we explain exhibition of speed charges, what the prosecution must prove, common defenses, potential penalties, and critical information to help you navigate these charges.

What is an Exhibition of Speed Charge in California?

California Vehicle Code § 23109(c) prohibits driving a vehicle on a highway or public street in a way that displays speed to attract attention or show off. This offense is distinct from speed contests (racing) but is often charged in similar contexts. Key aspects include:

1. Exhibition of Speed (VC § 23109(c))

  • Description: Involves actions like spinning tires, doing burnouts, doughnuts, or accelerating rapidly to impress onlookers or display vehicle performance.
  • Key Factors: A misdemeanor; does not require racing against another vehicle but focuses on reckless or showy driving behavior.

2. Related Charges

  • Description: Exhibition of speed may be charged alongside related offenses, such as:
    • VC § 23109(a) (speed contest).
    • VC § 23103 (reckless driving).
    • VC § 23152 (DUI, if alcohol or drugs are involved).
  • Key Factors: Multiple charges can increase penalties and complicate defense strategies.

What the District Attorney Must Prove in an Exhibition of Speed Case

To secure a conviction under VC § 23109(c), the Los Angeles DA must prove the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

  1. Driving a Vehicle: You were operating a motor vehicle on a public highway, street, or parking lot.
  2. Willful Display of Speed: You intentionally drove in a manner to show off or attract attention (e.g., burnouts, loud acceleration, or spinning tires).
  3. Public Safety Risk: Your actions posed a risk to the safety of persons or property, even if no actual harm occurred.
  4. Intent: You acted with the purpose of displaying speed or vehicle performance.

The DA relies on evidence such as police observations, dashcam or surveillance footage, witness statements, or tire marks. An experienced Los Angeles exhibition of speed attorney can challenge this evidence to weaken the prosecution’s case.

Common Defenses to Exhibition of Speed Charges in Los Angeles

A skilled defense attorney can employ several strategies to fight VC § 23109(c) charges. Common defenses include:

  1. No Intent to Show Off:
    • If you did not intend to display speed or attract attention, you may not be guilty.
    • Example: You accelerated quickly to merge into traffic, not to perform a burnout.
  2. Insufficient Evidence:
    • The prosecution may lack evidence to prove your actions were willful or posed a safety risk.
    • Example: No video or witness testimony confirms you were showing off.
  3. Not on a Public Highway:
    • If the activity occurred on private property (e.g., a private lot or racetrack), VC § 23109(c) may not apply.
    • Example: You performed a burnout in a private driveway with permission.
  4. False Allegations:
    • Charges may stem from officer bias or misinterpretation of your driving behavior.
    • Example: An officer mistook normal acceleration for an exhibition of speed.
  5. Mistaken Identity:
    • If you were not the driver involved, you cannot be held liable.
    • Example: Another vehicle with a similar description was responsible.
  6. Necessity:
    • If you drove in a certain manner to avoid immediate danger, your actions may be justified.
    • Example: You spun tires to avoid a collision in heavy traffic.

At Rogers | Beltran LLP, our Los Angeles exhibition of speed defense lawyers will thoroughly investigate your case to identify the most effective defense strategy for your situation.

Potential Penalties for Exhibition of Speed Convictions in California

Penalties for an exhibition of speed conviction under VC § 23109(c) depend on the circumstances and your criminal or driving history. As of July 2025, potential consequences include:

Misdemeanor Exhibition of Speed (VC § 23109(c))

  • Jail Time: Up to 90 days in county jail.
  • Fines: Up to $1,000 (plus court fees).
  • License Suspension: Up to 6 months by the DMV.
  • Probation: Up to 3 years of informal probation, often with community service or traffic school.
  • DMV Points: 2 points on your driving record, which can lead to further suspension.

Additional Consequences

  • Vehicle Impoundment: Your vehicle may be impounded for up to 30 days.
  • Increased Insurance Premiums: A conviction can lead to higher rates or loss of coverage.
  • Immigration Consequences: Non-citizens may face deportation or visa issues.
  • Employment Challenges: Affects jobs requiring a clean driving record, such as delivery or transportation roles.

What Else Should You Know About Exhibition of Speed Charges in Los Angeles?

Exhibition of speed charges under VC § 23109(c) can significantly impact your life, especially in Los Angeles’s strict enforcement environment. Here are additional details to understand:

The Exhibition of Speed Charge Process in Los Angeles

  1. Investigation: Police may charge exhibition of speed based on observations during traffic stops, street racing crackdowns, or public complaints, often using dashcam footage or witness statements.
  2. Arrest and Booking: You may be cited or booked and released on bail or your own recognizance.
  3. DMV Hearing: A conviction triggers a DMV review, potentially leading to license suspension. You have 10 days from arrest to request a hearing to challenge this.
  4. Court Proceedings: Your case involves arraignment, pre-trial motions, and possibly a trial. Plea deals may reduce charges to a lesser offense, such as a traffic infraction.

Why You Need a Los Angeles Exhibition of Speed Attorney

Navigating VC § 23109(c) charges requires legal expertise due to complex evidence and DMV consequences. An experienced attorney can:

  • Challenge the prosecution’s evidence, such as proof of intent or public safety risk, to seek dismissal or reduction of charges.
  • Negotiate plea deals to lesser charges (e.g., a speeding ticket or reckless driving under VC § 23103).
  • Represent you in court and DMV hearings to protect your driving privileges.
  • Mitigate impacts on your employment or immigration status.

At Rogers | Beltran LLP, our Los Angeles exhibition of speed defense attorneys have a proven track record of helping clients mitigate the consequences of these charges.

How to Protect Yourself After an Exhibition of Speed Charge

  1. Do Not Admit Guilt: Avoid discussing the case with anyone except your attorney, as statements can be used against you.
  2. Document Evidence: Keep records of witnesses, videos, or events supporting your defense (e.g., traffic conditions justifying your actions).
  3. Request a DMV Hearing: Contact the DMV within 10 days of arrest to challenge license suspension.
  4. Hire an Attorney Immediately: Early intervention can lead to dismissed charges or reduced penalties.

Los Angeles-Specific Considerations

  • Car Culture: Los Angeles’s vibrant car culture and busy streets (e.g., Hollywood, South LA) lead to frequent enforcement of exhibition of speed charges, especially during street racing crackdowns.
  • Local Courts: Cases are typically heard in courts like the Los Angeles Superior Court or Van Nuys Courthouse, each with unique procedures.
  • Urban Context: Heavy traffic or crowded events in Los Angeles can provide defense opportunities, such as arguing your actions were misinterpreted as showing off.

Contact Rogers | Beltran LLP for Experienced Exhibition of Speed Defense in Los Angeles

A California exhibition of speed charge under VC § 23109(c) doesn’t have to define your future. At Rogers | Beltran LLP, our dedicated Los Angeles exhibition of speed attorneys are committed to protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible outcome. We have the expertise to build a strong defense and minimize the impact on your driving record and life.

Call us today at (213) 900-9004 or fill out our online contact form for a free, confidential consultation. Let us help you navigate the legal process and safeguard your future.