You have legal options to build a solid defense after the police arrest you for driving under the influence (DUI). A Fillmore DUI lawyer may take steps to have your charges dismissed or reduced while building your defense.
DUI attorneys understand the harsh repercussions of a conviction for drunk driving, including fines, jail time, and restrictions on your license. You can rely on a professional law firm to answer your questions and take charge.
Find out more by calling or completing our online contact form.
When Should You Contact a DUI Lawyer in Fillmore?
It’s essential that you get legal help as quickly as possible after a DUI arrest. The police and prosecution will immediately begin building a case against you. Fortunately, you can get professional assistance on your side to protect your future.
An attorney can assess the specific charges you face and provide you with advice about your next steps. For example, you can get help handling charges for:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol
- A commercial vehicle DUI
- Drinking in a vehicle
- Underage drinking
A DUI lawyer can also help with open container violations and any drug DUI charges. You can reach out to a criminal defense law firm immediately after your arrest to build a solid defense.
How Can a DUI Charge Affect Your Life?
A DUI conviction in Fillmore can have severe negative consequences. For example, drivers convicted of drunk driving may face:
- High fines
- Time in a county jail
- Restrictions on their driving privileges
- Probation
- Orders to complete community service
- Orders to attend a DUI treatment program
DUI charges also stay on your criminal and driving record for a considerable time in California. Potential employers and landlords may review your record, so a DUI conviction can impact your ability to find housing or a job.
A DUI on your record can also affect your ability to get into an educational program. Therefore, it’s essential that you get professional support quickly from a Fillmore DUI lawyer after an arrest under VC 23152(a) or another DUI offense.
Can You Keep Driving After a DUI?
You may have a chance to continue driving even after a DUI arrest and conviction because California has a statewide ignition interlock device (IID) pilot program. This program requires you to install an IID on your vehicle and use it before you drive.
IIDs serve as personal breathalyzer devices. You have to pay to install the device and for all required maintenance. However, handling a DUI charge with a lawyer can help you avoid the inconvenience and expense associated with this device.
How Will Your DUI Attorney Help After an Arrest?
A DUI lawyer can address all your legal concerns following an arrest. Your lawyer will answer any questions you have and support you when the police and prosecution question you, helping you avoid mistakes that could damage your defense.
An attorney can help during your arraignment hearing when you learn about the charges you face and enter a plea. You can also get legal help from a criminal defense lawyer during your bail hearing, when applicable.
Lawyers focus on developing a personalized defense for each client. You can rely on a law firm to help if you face misdemeanor or felony DUI charges. Lawyers can help whether you’re facing your first DUI or a subsequent charge.
Lawyers Can Help with Your DMV Administrative Hearing
The professionals often recommend scheduling an administrative hearing with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) after a DUI arrest. You only have a few days to set up this hearing.
If you do not request an administrative hearing, the DMV will automatically suspend your license after 30 days, regardless of any court decisions.
Therefore, it’s essential that you get help with this hearing. A lawyer can help you set it up and represent you, fighting to help you protect your driving privileges.
How Do Lawyers in Fillmore Resolve DUI Charges?
Lawyers pursue several strategies when helping clients accused of a DUI. Depending on your circumstances, your attorney may:
Ask the Court to Dismiss the Charges
In some situations, the court will dismiss a DUI accusation. Generally, the court dismisses cases if the prosecution lacks sufficient evidence to establish that a crime occurred. The court may also dismiss your charges if the police violated your rights.
Advise You to Take a Plea Bargain
Your lawyer may advise you to accept a plea bargain from the prosecution in some cases. These deals will reduce the penalties you face, but they require you to plead guilty to another charge. Plea bargains do not always represent your best choice.
Represent You in Court
Finally, an attorney may defend you in court, using one of several DUI defenses that could apply to your situation. Your lawyer can present evidence, dispute claims made by the prosecution, and question witnesses.
What DUI Defenses Can Help with Your Charges?
A criminal defense lawyer will go over the facts surrounding your arrest and then develop a defense strategy based on your unique needs. Depending on your circumstances, an attorney may argue that:
- The police stopped you without reasonable cause
- The police failed to follow proper procedures for blood alcohol content (BAC) testing
- You were sitting in your car but not driving
- Something you ate or a medication caused incorrect results on your BAC test
The above list contains only examples of potential DUI defenses. Your lawyer may challenge the results of BAC testing and push to help you successfully resolve the charges you face.
Start Working with a Lawyer After a DUI Arrest in Fillmore
You can build a defense after an arrest with a Fillmore DUI lawyer. An attorney can help you avoid jail time, fines, and other severe penalties. You can rely on us to help you find a law firm ready to assist with all your legal needs.
You can learn more when you call or complete our online contact form.
