Being arrested for a felony DUI is a frightening experience that can affect your freedom, driving privileges, and record. Knowing what to do after a felony DUI arrest helps protect your rights and prepares you for the legal process ahead.
After being stopped by law enforcement, it’s essential to remain calm, cooperate with the officer, and avoid discussing details without a defense attorney present. From the field sobriety tests to the DMV hearing, every action matters.
A Los Angeles felony DUI lawyer can guide you through court appearances, possible license suspension, and blood alcohol content testing outcomes.
What You Need to Know About a Felony DUI Arrest
A felony DUI charge often arises after serious injury, repeat offenses, or exceptionally high blood alcohol levels. The penalties may include jail time, license revocation, or installation of ignition interlock devices.
During an arrest, officers may conduct breathalyzer or blood tests. Results are then reviewed by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and the court system.
The Stark Reality of Felony DUI Charges
Felony DUI convictions can result in prison time, license revocation, and lasting effects on your criminal record. The court may impose probation, fines, or mandatory DUI programs.
Law enforcement reports, security camera footage, and chemical sobriety test results often become central pieces of evidence. Maintaining communication with your defense attorneys and providing accurate details helps strengthen your defense strategy.
Some felony charges can drop to misdemeanor with the right circumstances and a solid legal strategy. Ask a felony DUI lawyer about your options.
Understand Your Rights Under California Law
When stopped for suspected drunk driving, you have the right to remain silent and the right to contact an attorney. Officers may ask for a breath sample or blood test under the state’s implied consent law.
Remember that you have the rights to:
- Remain silent until you speak with your lawyer
- Refuse searches of your glove compartment or vehicle without probable cause
- Be treated respectfully by police and arresting officers
While cooperation is required, you are entitled to fair treatment and lawful procedures. If you feel your rights were violated, document what occurred and share the details with your criminal defense attorney.
Secure Specialized Felony DUI Defense Counsel Immediately
After your arrest, contact an experienced Los Angeles DUI lawyer as soon as possible. Defense attorneys help interpret police reports, evaluate field sobriety test results, and represent you in court and DMV hearings.
These lawyers understand how prosecutors, judges, and the California Department of Motor Vehicles operate. They can challenge faulty breathalyzer tests or question witness statements that may affect your case.
Early legal support also ensures you don’t miss important deadlines, such as scheduling the DMV administrative per se hearing that determines your license suspension.
Document Every Detail of Your Arrest and Interact Carefully
Write down everything you remember from your traffic stop, including what the officer said, where it happened, and if there were any security cameras nearby. These notes may later support your defense strategy.
Helpful documentation tips include:
- Keep copies of all DMV or court appearance documents.
- Save any witness contact information.
- Review the breathalyzer or blood alcohol test results with your lawyer.
Be polite in all communication with law enforcement, but avoid discussing your case on social media. Anything shared online may be used as evidence in court.
Proactively Address License Suspension and Explore Driving Privileges
After a felony DUI arrest, the DMV usually starts the process to suspend your driver’s license. You may still qualify for a restricted license that allows limited driving privileges for work or school.
In California, you have an opportunity to prevent an administrative license suspension. To do so, you will have to request a DMV hearing quickly—usually within a few days—to challenge the suspension. This is known as the 10-day rule.
If your license is revoked, your attorney can guide you through steps toward reinstatement, including completing a DUI program or installing an ignition interlock device.
Demonstrate Responsibility: Explore Early Intervention and Rehabilitation Programs
Courts often view early action favorably. Enrolling in alcohol education, rehabilitation, or DUI programs can show your commitment to change and responsibility for your actions.
You may also consider counseling or group meetings for support. Keeping receipts, attendance logs, and certificates helps demonstrate progress during pretrial conferences or plea negotiations.
Taking proactive measures can influence the outcome of your case and help reduce penalties such as jail time or probation terms.
A Los Angeles DUI Attorney Can Answer Your Questions After a Felony Arrest
If you face a felony DUI in California, Los Angeles DUI Lawyer can connect you with a local attorney who will provide personalized legal representation.
We work with lawyers who understand local court decorum, work closely with prosecutors, and explain what to expect at each court date.
From managing arraignments to exploring plea bargains, your criminal defense team helps ensure fair treatment and clear communication. Your lawyer can also assist with requests for release on your own recognizance or adjustments to your bail amount.
Every driver deserves the opportunity to defend their rights and seek a path forward. Early legal help can make that process more manageable and less intimidating.
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