First DUI Offense Lawyer in Los Angeles

Charged With a First DUI in Los Angeles? Your Next Decisions Matter.

Being arrested for a first DUI offense can feel overwhelming. You may be worried about your job, your license, your future, and your reputation. The legal process moves quickly — and without the right guidance, you could face consequences that can follow you for years.

The prosecution will argue that you put others at risk. The DMV will move to revoke your license. And the court system expects you to understand and respond to legal procedures and deadlines immediately.

You do not have to face this alone. The Simmrin Law Group Los Angeles DUI Lawyer team focuses on DUI defense across Los Angeles. We understand how DUI investigations are conducted, how tests can produce inaccurate results, and how to build defense strategies that protect your record, your freedom, and your ability to drive.

What Happens After a First DUI Arrest?

A first DUI is typically charged under California Vehicle Code § 23152(a) & (b). Even though this is your first offense, the consequences can still be serious — especially if there is an alleged high BAC, accident, refusal, or minors present.

Immediately after the arrest, two separate cases begin:

The Criminal Case — handled in court
The DMV Case — affecting your driver’s license

These are completely different processes, each requiring a separate defense strategy.

You Have Only 10 Days to Protect Your License

If you do not request a DMV Administrative Hearing within 10 days of your arrest, the DMV will automatically suspend your driver’s license — even if your court case is still pending.

We request the DMV hearing for you
We stop the automatic suspension while your case is defended
We challenge BAC results and officer testimony

Learn more about license defense: DMV Hearing & Driving Privileges

Penalties for a First DUI Offense in Los Angeles

While a first DUI is usually a misdemeanor, the penalties can still be significant:

Penalty	Typical Outcome
License Suspension	4 months to 1 year, depending on BAC levels and DMV outcome
DUI School	3 to 9 months of alcohol education classes
Fines & Assessments	$390 + penalty assessments (commonly totals to $2,000+)
Probation	3 to 5 years informal probation
Ignition Interlock Device (IID)	May be required to continue driving
Jail Time	Up to 6 months (often avoidable)

Our goal is to reduce, avoid, or entirely eliminate these penalties — whenever possible.

How The Simmrin Law Group Defends First DUI Charges

1) We Examine Whether the Police Stop Was Lawful

If the officer lacked reasonable suspicion to initiate the stop, we can challenge the legality of the detention — possibly leading to the suppression of evidence.

2) We Challenge Breath and Blood Test Reliability

Breath and blood alcohol results are not always accurate. Our defense may include:

Evaluating calibration and maintenance records of the breath machine
Reviewing chain-of-custody for blood samples
Investigating contamination, fermentation, or handling errors
Consulting toxicology experts to evaluate BAC interpretation

3) We Analyze Field Sobriety Tests

Field sobriety tests are subjective, influenced by nerves, fatigue, footwear, uneven surfaces, medical conditions, and more. We highlight these issues to undermine claims of impairment.

4) We Seek Charge Reductions or Dismissal

Depending on case details, we may pursue:

Dismissal due to legal or procedural violations
Reduction to a “wet reckless”
Reduction to a non-alcohol traffic offense
Alternative sentencing programs to avoid jail and preserve employment

Common First DUI Scenarios We Handle

First DUI with BAC over 0.08%
First DUI with refusal accusations
First DUI involving prescription medications
First DUI with accident (no injury)
First DUI with commercial license concerns

Every case has unique factors. The earlier we begin, the more options you have.

Why Choose The Simmrin Law Group?

Focus on DUI defense — not general criminal law
Scientific understanding of breath & blood alcohol testing
Experience with Los Angeles courts & DUI prosecutors
We handle both DMV and criminal court defense
We fight for outcomes that protect your record and future

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I go to jail for a first DUI?
Not necessarily. Many first offenders avoid jail with the right defense and negotiation strategy.

Can I keep my license?
Yes — if we request the DMV hearing in time and successfully challenge the suspension.

Will this affect my job?
A DUI conviction can affect employment depending on your field. Protecting your record is a priority in our defense approach.

Contact The Simmrin Law Group

Your case is already moving. The prosecution and DMV will not wait — and neither should you.

Request a confidential consultation online to get help now:
Request Case Evaluation

Los Angeles First DUI Offense Lawyer