If you are facing a DUI charge in Cypress, you could be looking at losing your driver’s license, hefty fines, and even jail time. However, we believe one poor mistake does not make you a bad person. It would be best not to have to pay for that dire situation for the rest of your life.
Having the right lawyer can make a huge difference in your case. Many DUI defendants assume all hope is lost after arrest, but that’s often far from the case. With experienced legal representation, you may be able to lessen your penalties, get your charge reduced, or even, in some cases, walk away free.
How Can I Win My DUI Case?
You can win a DUI case in several ways. Our lawyers can help you by:
- Challenging the results of the chemical test
- Requesting a split blood test
- Showing the police violated your inherent rights
- Using the rising BAC or mouth alcohol defense
- Consulting with experts and witnesses that can prove you were not driving the vehicle or that you were not intoxicated
As you can see, DUI charges are serious, but they are not hopeless cases. So even though the odds may seem stacked against you, our Cypress DUI lawyers still have ways to help you fight against your charges.
Is It Illegal to Refuse a Breathalyzer Test?
In Cypress and across California, police officers can request you take a breathalyzer test either during a traffic stop before they arrest you or after the arrest. If they ask you to take a breath test before arresting you, that test is known as the “preliminary roadside screening,” or PAS, test. This test is optional, and you can legally refuse to take it.
However, if you get asked to take a test after being arrested as police are processing you, refusing it can have consequences. This breath test is required by law. If you refuse to take the test at this point, you can face extra penalties like a longer license suspension or extra jail time.
Because of the consequences, it is in your best interests to comply with a breath test after your arrest. However, if you do refuse the test, it does not mean you will be convicted. You should reach out to a DUI defense lawyer as soon as possible to talk about your options.
A DUI attorney in Cypress, CA, will know how to defend charges related to test refusal.
If I’ve Been Offered a Plea Bargain, Should I Take It?
In most cases, this initial offer is not a good deal. Some plea bargains can be very favorable to you, but that is usually only after working with an experienced DUI lawyer who can fight for your best outcome. Contact your DUI lawyer for a free consultation before accepting a plea bargain from the prosecution.
In successful plea bargains, you may be able to:
- Get your DUI charge reduced to reckless driving.
- Reduce your sentence, such as dropping mandatory jail time.
- Decrease your charge to a typical DUI in more severe costs, such as if your accident resulted in someone getting hurt.
While plea bargains can be good for your case, it is essential to remember that winning your case entirely favors you. Therefore, plea bargains are only the best option if you don’t have a chance of winning your case in court.
Prosecutors and even police officers will want to make it seem like a plea bargain is the best chance, but they are not on your side. That is why you need a DUI lawyer in Cypress, CA, who can look at the situation and determine your best course of action.
What Are the Penalties for a DUI in Cypress?
DUI penalties for Cypress residents are steep since California has increased consequences recently. If you are 21 years old or over, the severity of your penalties depends on whether this is your first offense and whether you refused a chemical test.
According to the DMV, driving under the influence carries the following penalties at different severities:
- Admin per license suspension, which goes into effect 30 days after your arrest
- Fines and fees, including court assessment fees
- Jail time
- Mandatory educational programs through DUI school
You may also be ordered to install an ignition interlock device (IID) on your vehicle, which is a machine that prevents your car from starting if you’ve been drinking. You may also face“unofficial” penalties, such as higher insurance costs after a DUI.
Collateral Penalties of a Cypress DUI Conviction
Although criminal penalties could have a substantial impact on your life, it is the collateral consequences that may turn your life upside down. Once you have fulfilled the sentencing requirements of a conviction, you might be relieved and prepared to move forward with your life.
However, your conviction will continue to haunt you. Upon your release, if you hope to return to work, you may be shocked if you are demoted or terminated, your professional license is suspended or revoked, or you cannot continue working because your driver’s license is suspended.
If you cannot earn a living, you will not be able to afford daily living costs, including housing. You may need to settle for less-than-ideal living conditions while you struggle to cope financially. You will also be disqualified from federally or state-funded government programs, such as federal student aid or food stamps. You can expect to lose your firearm rights, face citizenship issues, or even lose your child custody rights.
Insurance Considerations
You might also be obligated to submit an SR–22 insurance form which will exponentially increase the amount required to pay in auto insurance coverage. If you cannot afford these costs, it could be difficult or impossible to meet California state’s auto insurance requirement regulations. Take steps to protect your future when you call a DUI attorney for help today.
Get Help for Your Administrative Meeting from a DUI Lawyer in Cypress
You can fight the driver’s license suspension if you contact the California DMV within ten days of your arrest date to request an administrative hearing. During this hearing, you can try to get your license back. A DUI lawyer can help you do this.
If you already have prior DUIs on your record within the last ten years, another DUI will count against you and raise your penalties. But whether this is your first DUI offense or a subsequent offense, you need a criminal defense attorney to fight for your rights. They will investigate your case and look for weak spots that move you toward the most favorable outcome.
Do I Need to Hire a Cypress DUI Attorney?
Every resident of California has the right to defend themselves in court. However, if you do not have the legal knowledge or experience, you are putting yourself at an extreme disadvantage. The likelihood of success against your charges is slim to none.
Especially if this is your second or third offense, you will need strong legal representation. While you may want to save money, it is worth noting that the penalties and repercussions you face are nothing compared to any legal fees you will have to pay. Do not end up with a DUI charge on your permanent record. Hiring a lawyer is an investment, not an expense.
Speak with a Cypress DUI Lawyer Today
Do not let a DUI charge completely derail your life. One bad mistake does not define you, and a Cypress DUI lawyer can help you fight for lighter penalties, lesser charges, or winning your case altogether.
To speak with our team and get a free consultation, call us today or fill out our confidential contact form. You will get a free case evaluation where you can discuss your situation at no risk or obligation to you.
