Facing a first-offense DUI can be an overwhelming experience. You may be worried about your future, the impact on your family, or how this situation will affect your career and reputation. An Anaheim First Offense DUI lawyer will help you take the next steps.
After a DUI incident, you might not know where to turn for guidance. At Los Angeles DUI Lawyer, we connect you to the right local attorney to represent your case. Over the years, we have served thousands of clients; let us help you talk to the right Anaheim DUI lawyer.
The Benefits of Hiring a First Offense DUI Attorney in Anaheim
Facing a DUI charge can be complicated, with potential consequences that may impact your future. Hiring a skilled DUI lawyer can make a significant difference in how your case is handled.
Your DUI attorney can help you by:
- Reviewing the details of your arrest
- Identifying procedural errors or rights violations
- Negotiating reduced charges or penalties
- Representing you in court
- Advising on license reinstatement options
- Exploring alternatives like diversion programs
- Protecting your driving record
- Preparing a strong defense strategy
By choosing an attorney nearby, you’ll have easier access to in-person meetings and prompt communication. This makes the process smoother and more efficient as they work to achieve the best outcome for your case.
This is What Happens After Your First DUI Arrest
When you get a DUI in California, both the court system and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) become involved. Each operates independently, with separate rules, timelines, and consequences. Your attorney will offer guidance and protect your rights.
Here’s what typically happens after your first DUI arrest:
- After your arrest, the police will take your driver’s license and give you a temporary license.
- You’ll also receive a notice of potential DMV suspension, which must be kept with your temporary license.
- The police will forward this notice to the DMV, which will review your case and usually decide to suspend your license.
To fight a DUI charge, you’ll need to address both the court and DMV requirements, as they handle different aspects of your case. The court determines whether you are guilty of the criminal charges, while the DMV decides the status of your driving privileges.
Understanding a First Offense DUI for Minors
For drivers under 21, the penalties and fees are often much harsher than for those over the legal drinking age. California has a zero–tolerance policy under Vehicle Code §23136, meaning any blood alcohol concentration (BAC) can lead to a license suspension. The higher your BAC, the more severe the penalties.
DMV Penalties for a First Offense DUI
If you don’t request a DMV hearing within 10 days of your DUI arrest, or if you lose the hearing, you could face serious consequences. The Department of Driver Safety (DDS) will likely suspend your license for at least four months.
You’ll also need to get SR–22 insurance, which is required for high-risk drivers after a DUI arrest. SR-22 insurance costs more than regular car insurance.
The DMV will add points to your driving record and charge extra fees. If you accumulate too many points (4 in 12 months, 6 in 24 months, or 8 in 36 months), you could face further suspension or even lose your license.
Criminal Penalties for a First Offense DUI
While the DMV manages license suspensions and revocations, the court system handles the criminal aspects of a DUI case and the penalties a person faces.
For a first-time DUI conviction in California, the penalties can include:
- Fines between $390 and $1,000
- Additional costs and fees could bring the total amount owed to thousands of dollars or more
- Required attendance at DUI education classes for at least three months
- A mandatory jail sentence ranges from 3 days to 6 months, though in some cases, the sentence may be waived as part of probation.
- DUI probation lasting 3 to 5 years
A DUI conviction stays on your record for ten years. If you are arrested for another DUI during this period, the penalties will be much more severe. A DUI can also impact your job prospects, college applications, and other areas of your life.
A skilled Anaheim first offense DUI attorney can help reduce these penalties by challenging evidence, negotiating with prosecutors, and working on getting charges reduced or dismissed when possible.
Other Possible Penalties for a First DUI Offense
Along with criminal and DMV penalties, many drivers are required to install an ignition interlock device (IID). This device requires the driver to blow into a breathalyzer before starting the vehicle. Drivers are responsible for paying for the installation and upkeep of the IID.
First-time DUI offenders have two options for using the IID: 1) you can either choose a 12-month restricted license that allows driving to specific locations like work or school or 2) you can opt for a maximum 6-month requirement to use the IID after your license is reinstated.
Additional penalties may include mandatory alcohol or drug counseling, community service, or wearing an alcohol-detecting “SCRAM” bracelet. While these penalties are less common for first-time offenders, they depend on the judge’s discretion.
Talk to an Experienced First Offense DUI Lawyer in Anaheim Today
If you’re facing criminal charges for impaired driving, an Anaheim first offense DUI attorney can review your case and find ways to improve your situation. Don’t lose hope until you’ve spoken with a legal professional who understands DUI cases and can fight for your best interests.
Your Anaheim First Offense DUI lawyer can negotiate a plea deal or even work to get the charges dropped. Call Los Angeles DUI Lawyer today or fill out our online contact form to get connected with a DUI defense law firm. We’re here to guide you through this challenging time.
Contact us now for a free consultation.