Burbank DUI Lawyer

If you are facing a driving under the influence (DUI) charge, you may face the possibility of jail time, and you could lose your driver’s license. You are also on the hook for substantial fines, which can easily total thousands of dollars. It is a severe charge—but only if you are convicted.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to improve your case. Many people choose to work with an experienced Burbank DUI lawyer to help make the process easier and smoother.

A Los Angeles DUI Lawyer can help you understand your options and defend against the penalties you’re facing.

The Cost of a DUI in Burbank, CA

California law has taken an increasingly tough stance toward DUI offenses. Hundreds of people are charged with DUI in Burbank each year.

The penalties for DUI in California depend on whether it is a first, second, or third offense. 

The penalties for a first DUI may include the following:

• Jail time ranging from two days to six months may be imposed in some cases. Alternatives such as probation may be available depending on the situation.
• Fines and fees totaling at least $1,800. This includes the minimum fine of $390. Additional penalties may increase the total amount significantly depending on the circumstances of the case.
• Driver’s license suspension or restriction, which can range from several months to longer periods, depending on the driving under the influence case.
• Probation, mandatory DUI school, and potentially an interlock device. You pay the costs of DUI school and the interlock yourself.

If you have had prior DUIs, the costs will be even steeper. In some cases—such as repeat offenses or felony DUI charges—you could face over a year in state prison. Fines could be in the thousands.

Your Life After a Drunk Driving Conviction in Burbank

Although DUIs could be expunged in limited circumstances in California, generally, this will remain on your criminal record indefinitely. This means any time you need to submit to a background check, your conviction will show up on your record.

In addition, you may have your professional license revoked or suspended, lose your job, lose your visitation or child custody rights, or have trouble finding work.

Furthermore, you could be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID), potentially lose your right to bear arms, and be ineligible for federal student aid, depending on your circumstances.

Types of DUI Lawyers in Burbank

Lawyers who have experience in the types of DUIs you are facing can be extremely helpful to have on your side. Here are some of the different types of DUI lawyers available for residents of Burbank:

• Burbank first offense DUI lawyer: Navigating the legal process for a first-time DUI can be extremely confusing and overwhelming, but a Burbank first offense DUI attorney who has experience with first-time offenders can ensure you don’t miss important details and steps.
• Burbank second offense DUI lawyer: A second offense may require a stronger defense and more experience, and that’s why an attorney who has experience with second offenses can be so crucial.
• Burbank third offense DUI lawyer: Third offenses can have more penalties attached than a first or second time DUI. Having the right lawyer who has experience with these specific cases is essential for the best strategy to tackle everything from legal proceedings to license suspension options.
• Burbank misdemeanor DUI lawyer: There are lots of ways to navigate a misdemeanor DUI case; someone who knows the processes and potential outcomes will be extremely helpful to have in your corner.
• Burbank felony DUI lawyer: Felony charges can have a devastating impact on your life for years. The good news is that working with a Burbank felony DUI lawyer can help you figure out a helpful defense.
• Burbank commercial DUI lawyer: A commercial DUI lawyer can help you understand your options and work to protect your career.
• Burbank hit and run DUI lawyer: A hit and run and DUI are two separate charges that come with their own legal processes. An attorney can help you better understand these processes, along with figuring out the next steps.
• A Burbank marijuana DUI lawyer: Marijuana-related DUI charges come with unique legal challenges and evolving laws. A Burbank marijuana DUI lawyer can help you navigate these complexities.

What Happens After You Get Arrested?

You may have been arrested by the Burbank police department, the California Highway Patrol, or the LA County Sheriff’s Office. You may be held in custody for a period of time, which can vary depending on the situation.

After, you will be processed and released. Deadlines for your case start counting down immediately, and you need to be ready for each one:

The DMV Hearing

The DMV hearing, which can be scheduled through the DMV’s driver safety portal, is an important opportunity to challenge the potential suspension of your driving privileges.

If you miss this deadline, your license will be on administrative suspension until your trial. A good DUI lawyer in Burbank, CA, is already essential. They can help you file the request with the DMV, represent you at the hearing, and help you present your case and explore options for maintaining driving privileges.

The Arraignment

The arraignment is an initial court hearing within a few weeks of your arrest. At this hearing, you will enter your plea, and you will be given a date for your trial. If you already have a DUI attorney in Burbank, CA, before your arraignment, they can use it as an opportunity to pressure the prosecution to negotiate.

Trial Preparation

The gap between the arraignment and the trial can be several months or more. Your lawyer will assemble the most robust case during this time.

They will conduct extensive research, review all relevant evidence, and find the prosecution’s weak spots. This is also when the most favorable deals are offered. In many cases, you will not need to go to trial.

The Trial for The Burbank DUI

If you proceed to trial, it will be held at the Burbank Courthouse. Remember that you do not have to prove you are innocent. Instead, your Burbank DUI attorney must only create “reasonable doubt”. They do this by discrediting the evidence against you or suppressing it where possible.

The Best Thing to Do for a Burbank DUI

When you are charged with drunk driving, the court may offer you a free attorney, known as a public defender. Public defenders are good lawyers, but they have a large caseload and need more time to dig through the evidence against you.

In many cases, they often handle a high volume of cases, which can limit the time available for each client. This can be disappointing. Hiring your own DUI attorney makes a difference.

These attorneys will go through every possible strategy for defending your case. For example, they may be able to challenge the charges or negotiate for reduced penalties for the California DUI, such as reckless driving, depending on the circumstances.

Defense Strategies a Burbank DUI Attorney May Use

DUI attorneys can challenge different aspects of a case depending on the evidence. There are several ways your lawyer might work to turn things in your favor:

Questioning the Legitimacy of the DUI Arrest

Sometimes the Burbank police department can make mistakes. This violates your rights as a defendant. If your lawyer finds evidence of this in your case, they may be able to help with your defense.

Questioning the Evidence Against You

DUI evidence is rarely as conclusive as you might think. Data from field sobriety tests and breath tests can be inaccurate. Your DUI lawyer will know how to call the evidence into question and, in some cases, have it suppressed from the trial altogether.

Uncovering Contradictions in Law Enforcement Testimony

Police officers may change their story after an arrest, even if they do it unconsciously. If their statements at a hearing or in court contradict their initial statement, their credibility is questioned. In other cases, your lawyer may be able to find video footage or a witness that contradicts the police statements.

Negotiating Reduced Charges

The prosecution may be open to a deal in some cases. DUI lawyers use tactics to work toward a favorable resolution based on the facts surrounding your situation. This could mean a stronger defense and may reduce the financial impact of your DUI case.

Consider Alternative Options

Going to trial is not the only way to address a DUI charge. Depending on the circumstances of your case, resolving the matter through a negotiated agreement with the prosecution may be an option.

In some situations, a plea agreement can result in reduced charges or less severe penalties. The availability and terms of any agreement will depend on factors such as your prior record, the details of the arrest, and whether any aggravating circumstances were involved.

Courts may also consider alternative sentencing options in certain cases. These can include:

• Probation in place of additional jail time for drinking and driving
• Alcohol education or treatment programs
• Community service requirements
• Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID)
• Fines and other court-imposed conditions

Because every DUI case is different, the outcome will depend on the specific evidence, legal issues, and circumstances involved. An attorney can help evaluate your options and determine the most appropriate path forward based on your situation.

How to Find a DUI Lawyer in Burbank, CA

Burbank has many attorneys who handle DUI cases, but not all focus specifically on DUI defense. With your future on the line, you should hire only the most qualified DUI defense attorney:

• Look for a lawyer who focuses exclusively on DUI cases. A generalist will not have the same experience.
• Ask what special training or credentials they have in DUI defense. The most dedicated lawyers continually take classes and special training to improve their knowledge of DUI law.
• Make sure you are offered a free consultation to assess your case. You should have a chance to get to know the lawyer before you agree to hire them.

Get Connected With a DUI Lawyer Serving Burbank

If you have been arrested for DUI, you need to act fast. Deadlines are already looming that will determine the future of your career, your freedom, and your ability to drive. Having a professional at your side can be an important step in addressing your case.

Our site exists to connect you with experienced DUI attorneys across California. This service is completely free. We need a few basic details, and we will get to work immediately matching you with a pre-screened Burbank DUI attorney.

Every lawyer we work with offers a free, no-obligation consultation. If you’re ready to explore your options, let us help you get connected with trusted legal counsel.