The vast majority of people arrested for DUI in California are arrested for a first offense. In fact, for those convicted of DUI in 2011, 73.7% were first offenders and 26.3% were repeat offenders with one or more prior convictions within the previous 10 years.
Our DUI defense attorneys are experienced in representing clients on a first DUI. Our attorneys appear in Court for you. Misdemeanor cases are heard in one of the courtrooms. When the DUI is charged as a felony, the case will be heard in one of the courtrooms on the first floor of the Hall of Justice.
Our attorneys also appear for the California DMV license suspension hearing before a Hearing Officer at the Department of Motor Vehicles’ Driver Safety Office.
Our attorneys represent clients on DUI cases throughout California.
Attorney for a First DUI in California
If you were arrested for a first DUI, then contact an experienced criminal defense attorney at Ticket Crushers. We represent clients charged with a DUI case involving a breath or blood test or a refusal to submit to chemical testing.
Even for a first DUI with no prior record, the penalties are serious. Call Ticket Crushers to discuss your case at 1 (866) 842-5384.
First Things First — The DMV Hearing
After you are arrested for DUI, the officer will confiscate your license and hand you a notice of suspension. The notice tells you that your license will be automatically suspended based on the circumstances of the arrest. You only have 10 days to demand a DMV hearing to contest the administrative suspension. If you do nothing, the administrative per se (APS) suspension will remain on your driving record even if you ultimately avoid a DUI conviction in court.
For a first DUI arrest, the length of the administrative suspension depends on whether you submitted to the chemical test.
The length of the ALS Suspension/Revocation after a DUI arrest in California depends on whether you took the chemical test or refused, and whether you have any prior convictions. If you took a chemical test with a BAC level of 0.08 percent or more, then your driving privilege will be suspended for four (4) months for a first DUI offense. If you refused chemical testing, then your driving privileges will be suspended for 12 months.
Criminal DUI Case
In the State of California, the criminal penalties for a first DUI include:
- Mandatory incarceration of three days with a statutory maximum of no more than six months in a county jail;
- Fines between $390 and $1,000;
- Not less than three years probation and not more than five years probation, during which you can violate no law that results in an arrest or drive with any measurable amount of alcohol in your system; and
- Successful completion of a DUI program for three, six, or nine months.
If you are convicted of DUI, then the conviction will remain on your record for 10 years and lead to enhanced penalties for any subsequent DUI arrests.
Attorneys for a First DUI in the California
If you were arrested for a first DUI in California, then contact an experienced criminal defense attorney at Ticket Crushers. We represent clients arrested for DUI after a breath test, a blood test, or an alleged refusal to submit to chemical testing.
We also represent commercial drivers charged with DUI in a commercial motor vehicle or while holding a CDL license.
Find out how a first DUI is treated differently from other DUI cases by the District Attorney’s Office. Let us put our experience to work for you as you fight to avoid the penalties and punishments that come with a conviction for a first DUI under California law.
Let our DUI Lawyers put our experience to work for you. Call Ticket Crushers today at 1 (866) 842-5384.
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- California DUI Statistics
- DUI Personal Injury Claims
- Second DUI
- Sobriety Checkpoints
- Underage 21 DUI in California
What is a DUI defense in California?
A DUI defense in California, involves specialized legal strategies employed by defense attorneys to challenge the prosecution’s case against individuals charged with driving under the influence. These experienced DUI defense lawyers are well-versed in the intricacies of DUI laws and can provide guidance throughout the legal process, ensuring a comprehensive approach to protecting your rights.
What is the legal blood alcohol limit in California for DUI?
In California, the legal blood alcohol limit for DUI, especially in areas like San Mateo City, is set at 0.08% for individuals aged 21 and older. This means that exceeding this limit can result in DUI charges.
What are the penalties for a first-time DUI in California?
When individuals in California are charged with a first-time DUI offense, they may face severe penalties. Specialized DUI defense attorneys in these regions can tailor their defense strategies to the unique aspects of local jurisdictions, working to minimize penalties like license suspension, fines, probation, and even jail time.
How long does a DUI stay on your record in California?
A DUI can stay on your record in California for up to 10 years, with no possibility of expungement.
Can you refuse a breathalyzer test in California?
In California, it’s crucial to understand the implications of refusing a breathalyzer test. DUI defense attorneys with local knowledge can provide tailored advice, considering the implied consent law and its application in the specific jurisdiction. They can help you make informed decisions regarding testing and guide you through the potential consequences.
What are the consequences of refusing a DUI test in California?
Refusing a DUI test in California can result in administrative penalties like license suspension under the implied consent law.
How much does a DUI defense cost in California?
The cost of DUI defense in California varies but often ranges from $2,500 to $5,000 for first-time DUI representation. It’s essential to choose a DUI defense attorney familiar with the local landscape, to ensure that your defense strategy aligns with the specific jurisdiction’s legal nuances.
Can you get a DUI expunged in California?
A DUI conviction cannot be expunged in California, but DUI defense attorneys in San Mateo County can guide you through alternative legal strategies and programs to minimize the impact of a DUI conviction on your record.
Do I need a lawyer for a DUI in California?
When facing a DUI charge in California, it’s crucial to seek legal representation from a specialized DUI defense attorney, particularly in regions like San Mateo County. These experienced attorneys understand the local legal landscape and can provide guidance and legal defense strategies tailored to the specific jurisdiction, ultimately improving your chances of a favorable outcome
Are there DUI diversion programs in California?
California does offer DUI diversion programs in areas like San Mateo County, as alternatives to traditional DUI penalties, allowing eligible individuals to address underlying issues and potentially have charges dismissed or reduced.
Is a wet and reckless better than a DUI?
A wet and reckless charge is offered as an alternative to a DUI in California, with potential benefits due to lighter penalties and less severe long-term consequences. Specialized DUI defense attorneys in these regions can assess whether a wet and reckless charge is the right choice based on your case’s unique circumstances and local jurisdiction.
What is the difference between a DUI and a wet and reckless in California?
A wet and reckless is a reduced charge involving reckless driving under the influence of alcohol, offered as an alternative to a standard DUI charge. It may carry lighter penalties, but it’s essential to consult a DUI defense attorney with local knowledge to navigate the jurisdiction-specific aspects of the charge.
How long does a wet reckless stay on your record in California?
A wet reckless conviction in California can remain on your record for up to 10 years, with visibility during that time frame, particularly to law enforcement and government agencies.
What is a wet and reckless in California?
A wet and reckless is a reduced charge involving reckless driving with alcohol or being under the influence of drugs. It’s offered as an alternative to a standard DUI charge. It may carry lighter penalties, but it’s essential to consult a defense lawyer with local knowledge to navigate the jurisdiction-specific aspects of the charge.
How long is probation for a wet reckless in California?
Probation for a wet and reckless charge in California usually lasts three to five years, with standard terms and conditions, but may vary based on specific jurisdiction requirements, making the assistance of a defense lawyer essential to ensure compliance and resolution of the case effectively.
