Facing driving under the influence (DUI) charges is a frightening experience that threatens your freedom and future. The legal system is complex and intimidating, especially when dealing with both criminal court proceedings and DMV administrative actions.
Los Angeles DUI Attorney is here to guide you through this challenging time and ensure your rights are protected. We can connect you with a DUI lawyer in Florence-Graham who can help you with your criminal defense.
Don’t let a DUI arrest define your future. Whether this is your first offense or you’ve faced DUI charges before, we’re committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
The Hidden Costs of DUIs
A DUI conviction brings more than just court-ordered penalties. While fines start at $390, the total costs can escalate to over $20,000 when you factor in court fees, mandatory programs, and insurance increases.
If your vehicle is impounded, you’ll face storage fees that can accumulate for 30 to 90 days. The court may also require installing an ignition interlock device, which comes with installation and maintenance costs.
Your professional life may also suffer if your job requires driving or professional licensing. If you switch jobs, many employers conduct background checks. A DUI conviction could limit your future career opportunities.
Risks and Penalties You Face
The severity of California DUI penalties depends on various factors, including your blood alcohol content (BAC), whether children were present, and if any accidents occurred. Even as a first-time offender, you could face up to six months in jail.
Additional consequences may include mandatory alcohol education programs, community service hours, and license suspension. If there were aggravating circumstances, such as an extremely high BAC or injury to others, the penalties become even more severe.
A Florence-Graham DUI lawyer will work to minimize these consequences. They may negotiate for alternative sentencing or pretrial diversion programs when available. In some cases, procedural errors could create an opening to get your charges dropped completely.
Alternative Sentencing Options
A lawyer can help you explore alternatives like work release programs, which allow you to maintain employment while serving your sentence during off-hours. These programs help you meet your obligations to the court while preserving your ability to support yourself and your family.
House arrest with electronic monitoring presents another alternative to jail time. Under this arrangement, you’re confined to your home except for approved activities like work, medical appointments, or court-ordered programs. While restrictive, this option allows you to maintain employment and family relationships while satisfying the court’s requirements.
For many clients, treatment-based alternatives offer the most beneficial path forward. These programs typically combine counseling, education, and monitoring with reduced or suspended jail time. Successful completion can lead to reduced charges or, in some cases, dismissal of charges entirely.
Immediate Steps After Arrest
The actions you take in the first 10 days after arrest decide whether you can keep driving or not. You must request a hearing with the California Department of Motor Vehicles to prevent automatic license suspension within this window. Missing this deadline means losing your right to contest the suspension.
Preserving evidence is also critical during this period. Security camera footage may be overwritten, witnesses’ memories may fade, and important details could be lost forever. Early intervention by a DUI attorney helps ensure crucial evidence is preserved.
Don’t make statements about your case to anyone except your lawyer. Everything you say to law enforcement or post on social media could be used against you in court.
Building a Strong Defense
A Florence-Graham DUI attorney will examine every aspect of your case for potential defenses. They will scrutinize the initial traffic stop, field sobriety tests, and chemical test procedures for any irregularities that could get the evidence removed.
Common defense strategies include challenging breathalyzer calibration, questioning officer training and procedures, and examining whether your rights were violated during the arrest. Medical conditions, medications, or improper testing procedures can all affect test results.
An attorney will also look for witnesses who can support your case and review police body camera footage or surveillance videos that might contradict the officer’s account.
What Happens After Arrest
Your case begins with an arraignment hearing, where you’ll hear the charges against you and enter an initial plea. This usually occurs within two weeks of arrest, making it crucial to have legal representation as soon as possible so they can be present at your hearing.
The period between arraignment and trial typically lasts about 45 days. During this time, your lawyer will negotiate with prosecutors, review evidence, and work to build the strongest possible defense for your case.
Most DUI cases never reach trial, often resolving through plea negotiations or pretrial diversion programs. However, your lawyer will prepare every case as if it will go to trial to ensure the strongest possible position for negotiations.
DMV Hearings and License Protection
The DMV hearing is separate from your criminal case but equally important. This administrative proceeding determines whether you’ll keep your driving privileges while your case proceeds.
A lawyer can represent you at these hearings to challenge the suspension and protect your ability to drive legally. Many people need a license to maintain employment and meet family obligations.
A lawyer understands DMV procedures and knows how to present effective arguments at these hearings. We’ll work to help you maintain your driving privileges whenever possible.
Contact Our Florence-Graham DUI Defense Team
Don’t let a DUI arrest derail your life. An experienced legal team understands the local courts and knows how to navigate the criminal justice system and DMV proceedings effectively.
Complete our online contact form to schedule your free consultation with a Florence-Graham DUI lawyer today. Let us help protect your rights and fight for your future.
