Do I Need a Lawyer for DUI in California?

Do I Need a Lawyer for DUI in California?

Driving under the influence (DUI) can result in strict consequences, but you still have options available if you are convicted.

One of the best options available is to hire a lawyer who can assist you through the difficult process and ensure you receive the best possible results. A DUI can be a very serious offense in California, which is why hiring a knowledgeable and experienced lawyer who can help you along the way is one of the best options available.

What Does It Mean to Be Charged with DUI?

If you are convicted of a DUI, it means you were found to be operating a motor vehicle with alcohol or other substances in your system. In California, DUI is determined by measuring your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). If your BAC is over the legal limit, and you are operating a motor vehicle, you will be charged with a DUI. The legal limit varies depending on your circumstances, and this is broken up into four categories:

• .08% or higher – If you are 21 years of age or older and possess a driver’s license with no other restrictions
• .04% or higher – If you possess a commercial driver’s license (CDL), no matter what vehicle you were operating at the time of your arrest
• .04% or higher – If you are currently on DUI probation due to a previous charge
• .01% or higher – If you are under 21 years of age, which is the legal drinking age

DUIs are serious offenses because substances such as alcohol can impair your brain function, reaction time, judgment, and motor skills. Driving under the influence can result in severe consequences, including damage to property and vehicles, and injuries or even death to anyone on the road. California takes these cases seriously, and it is crucial that you refrain from operating a motor vehicle if you’ve been drinking.

Why Hire a Lawyer for DUI?

If you are charged with a DUI in California, you will want to ensure you receive the fairest possible results in your case, as there are strict consequences you could potentially face. By hiring a lawyer, they can provide the knowledge and experience necessary to defend you in court.

When you contact a lawyer, they will examine all of the details of your case, including the specifics of your arrest and booking. This is to ensure the protocols were followed efficiently and legally. If something regarding your arrest or booking were unlawful, your lawyer can help you build your case. Good lawyers look for any inconsistencies in the prosecutor’s evidence and will represent you throughout the entire process.

Many people believe they can navigate a DUI case on their own without legal assistance. However, these cases are more detailed than they first appear. DUI cases can result in a tarnished reputation, loss of a job, and potentially jail time. An experienced attorney will know what your charges may be, and they can help defend you so you don’t receive severe penalties.

What to Ask a Lawyer About

A lawyer who is experienced can help you receive a fair trial, but it’s equally important that you ask them some questions to determine if the lawyer is the right fit for you. Hiring a lawyer can be worth your time and money, but only if you find one who is qualified to handle your DUI case.

For example, you’ll want to ask them about their experience working specifically on DUI cases. A lawyer experienced in DUI law may be a better fit compared to someone who practices several different types of law. It is always best to hire someone with specific knowledge and experience in the area of practice in which you are seeking counsel.

Ask your lawyer what they are able to do for you. A lawyer can handle any documentation for you during the process, and they can also discuss in detail what your case entails. If your attorney seems uncertain or doesn’t seem to give you satisfactory answers about your concerns, you may want to find a new lawyer who can help you understand the DUI process.

FAQs

Q: Is It Worth Getting a DUI Lawyer in California?

A: While you can navigate DUI cases on your own, this is difficult to do. For this reason, hiring a DUI lawyer is recommended for everyone in California who is charged with DUI. An experienced lawyer can help you with any questions or concerns you have and help ensure you receive the best results possible.

Q: How Much Does a DUI Lawyer Cost in California?

A: There is no set cost for a DUI lawyer, as several factors can contribute to the price. Depending on the severity of your case, you could see an increase in your fees. Also, the lawyer’s experience can influence how much they charge for their services. While hiring an attorney is worth the investment, be sure to ask your lawyer what they charge first.

Q: What Happens When You Get a DUI for the First Time in California?

A: If you are arrested for DUI for the first time, you will generally be required to pay a fine, as well as complete an alcohol program that lasts roughly 30 hours in total. Fines can be upwards of $2,000 for a first offense, depending on the type of DUI with which you are charged.

Q: Can a DUI Be Dismissed in CA?

A: Yes, it is possible for a DUI to be dismissed. Though not guaranteed, you have a few defenses you can use to dismiss your case. For example, sometimes sobriety tests are inaccurate, and other times you may be charged with a DUI when you were actually just poorly driving. An experienced lawyer can help defend you in court to dismiss a DUI.

Your DUI Lawyer in California

DUI cases can be lengthy and challenging for people, but our DUI attorneys can help. If you’ve been convicted of a DUI, contact The Law Office of Daniel P. Flores today, and we can help you understand your case and fight for your rights.