If you’re a commercial driver facing DUI charges, you know how crucial your commercial driver’s license (CDL) is to your livelihood. A DUI conviction can have devastating consequences, not only on your ability to continue working but also on your personal and professional reputation.
At Los Angeles DUI Attorney, we specialize in connecting you with experienced attorneys who understand the unique challenges CDL holders face and can help protect your future. We’ve already done the research, and we are here for you. With one free phone call, we can help you find the best Irvine DUI lawyer for you.
With so much at stake, don’t take chances with your legal representation. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you find the right Irvine commercial DUI lawyer for your case.
Why You Need an Irvine Commercial DUI Lawyer
Commercial DUI cases come with unique challenges and stricter legal thresholds compared to standard DUI cases. For example:
Lower BAC Limit
Under California Vehicle Code § 23152(d), the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for commercial drivers operating a commercial vehicle is 0.04%, compared to 0.08% for non-commercial drivers. This lower threshold means that even one drink could put you over the limit, especially if consumed shortly before driving.
Harsh Penalties for CDL Holders
The penalties for a commercial DUI conviction are severe and can include:
- Up to six months in jail for a first offense.
- Fines of up to $1,000.
- Mandatory DUI classes (typically three months for a first offense).
- 3-5 years of probation.
Additionally, CDL holders face specific license suspension rules:
- A 1-year CDL suspension for a first DUI conviction.
- A lifetime CDL disqualification for a second DUI, regardless of whether the second offense occurred in a personal or commercial vehicle.
Impact on Career and Finances
Losing your CDL, even temporarily, can devastate your career. Without the ability to drive commercially, many drivers struggle to find alternative employment, leading to financial hardships that can impact their families and future.
Because of these high stakes, it is critical to have a commercial DUI attorney who understands the complexities of these cases and can build a strong defense to protect your livelihood.
How a Commercial DUI Lawyer in Irvine Can Help
Hiring an experienced commercial DUI lawyer in Irvine can make all the difference in your case. Here’s how a lawyer can assist you:
Protect Your CDL
Your attorney will fight to protect your CDL and minimize the impact on your ability to work. This may involve negotiating with the prosecution for reduced charges or penalties or challenging the evidence against you.
Evaluate the Evidence
DUI cases often hinge on evidence such as breathalyzer results, field sobriety tests, and police reports. An experienced lawyer will scrutinize this evidence to identify weaknesses, procedural errors, or violations of your rights.
Develop a Strong Defense Strategy
Your lawyer will craft a personalized defense strategy based on the specifics of your case. This may include arguing that the breathalyzer equipment was faulty, the field sobriety test was improperly administered, or your BAC was below the legal limit while driving.
Help You Through The Entire Process
DUI cases can be complex, involving both criminal court proceedings and administrative hearings with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
An Irvine commercial DUI attorney will handle every aspect of your case, ensuring deadlines are met, paperwork is filed correctly, and you are well-prepared for court appearances.
Advocate for Reduced Penalties
Even if a conviction cannot be avoided, a lawyer can work to reduce the penalties you face. For example, they may negotiate for a shorter license suspension, lower fines, or alternative sentencing options like community service.
Common Defenses in Commercial DUI Cases
An experienced DUI attorney will explore all possible defenses to challenge the charges against you. Common defense strategies include:
- Lack of Probable Cause: If the officer did not have a valid reason to pull you over or arrest you, your charges could be dismissed.
- Faulty BAC Testing Equipment: Breathalyzers and other testing devices must be properly maintained and calibrated. If the equipment used in your case was faulty, the results may be inadmissible.
- Rising Blood Alcohol: Alcohol takes time to absorb into the bloodstream. Your lawyer may argue that your BAC was below the legal limit while driving but rose to or above the limit by the time the test was administered.
- Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or GERD, can produce false BAC readings.
- Improper Field Sobriety Test Administration: Field sobriety tests must be conducted according to strict procedures. If the officer failed to follow these guidelines, the results may be invalid.
- Substance Use Defense: If your DUI involved legal or prescribed substances, your lawyer may argue that these did not impair your ability to drive safely.
Each case is unique, and your attorney will tailor their defense strategy to the specific circumstances of your situation.
Get Help Today
A DUI charge doesn’t have to end your career. With the right legal representation, you can fight the charges against you, protect your CDL, and move forward with your life.
Call Los Angeles DUI Lawyers today or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation. Let us connect you with an experienced Irvine commercial DUI lawyer who can help you navigate this challenging time and secure the best possible outcome.
Don’t wait—your future and livelihood are on the line. Take the first step toward protecting them today.
