If you are charged with driving under the influence, take the legal process seriously. Ignoring your charge can make things worse since the prosecution will commit time and resources to punish you to the fullest extent of the law. Instead, hire a La Habra Heights DUI lawyer.
Los Angeles DUI Attorney can connect you with a lawyer who understands the challenges you will face at each stage of the legal process. Work with an attorney who has decades of legal experience, and you could get the charge against you reduced or dismissed. Ask for legal help today.
Consequences of a La Habra Heights DUI Conviction
In California, driving under the influence is treated as a misdemeanor or felony. If convicted, the severity of your punishment depends on your age, criminal history, and other factors. Here are some of the consequences someone can face if they are convicted of a DUI.
Jail or Prison Time
The first time you are convicted of a DUI, you could face up to six months in jail. With a felony conviction, you may receive a prison sentence of up to five years, which can be extended if someone is hurt or killed. An attorney can provide insights into how much jail time you could face for a California DUI.
Fines
If convicted of a DUI for the first or second time in the past 10 years, you could receive fines totaling up to $1,000. For future DUI convictions beyond these, you can be fined up to $5,000. A DUI lawyer serving La Habra Heights can explain the fines associated with your charge in detail.
Probation
You may be subject to formal or information probation lasting three to five years. With formal probation, an officer supervises you, making sure you follow through on various requirements. Informal probation is less restrictive, and you may not need an officer to monitor you.
Driver’s License Suspension
As soon as the police arrest you for driving under the influence, your driver’s license is suspended. An initial suspension can last up to a year. A lawyer can review your charge and discuss the length of your license suspension if you are convicted of a DUI.
Partner with a La Habra Heights DUI attorney to dispute your driving under the influence charge. Your lawyer will answer your questions about what can happen in your case. In addition, they will help you prepare a legal strategy designed to compel the court to rule in your favor.
How to Contest a DUI Charge
A DUI attorney serving La Habra Heights crafts an argument specifically for your case. They also collect evidence and find witnesses to testify on your behalf. Along with these things, your lawyer considers many legal strategies, such as:
Showing the Results of Your Breath Test Are Inaccurate
Breath mints, cough syrup, and dentures are three common sources of mouth alcohol. These and other products can mimic the effects of mouth alcohol, leading to inaccurate breath test results. Your attorney could use your breath test results as part of a mouth alcohol defense.
Proving a Breath Test Was Not Calibrated Properly
Per California Driver’s Handbook Section 9, you cannot operate a vehicle if you are over 21 and have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or under 21 and have a BAC of 0.01%. However, police officers who arrested you may have ignored breath test calibration requirements. If this happens, your lawyer can argue that your test was faulty.
Highlighting a Lack of Probable Cause
It is against the law for police officers to pull over drivers and arrest them for any reason they choose. The police must have a legitimate reason for arresting you and charging you with a DUI. If not, the court could say the police lacked probable cause to arrest you in the first place.
Explaining That You Did Not Receive Your Miranda Warning
Expect to receive your Miranda warning after the police arrest you but before they question you. This warning details your right to remain silent and other rights you have at this time. If you are not told about your Miranda rights, evidence that the police gathered during your questioning may not be used against you.
In one of the best-case scenarios, you have a wealth of evidence to prove you should not be punished. If the prosecution is worried about the strength of your case, they may offer a plea deal. Review a plea agreement with your lawyer, and they will help you make an informed decision about it.
La Habra Heights DUI Lawyers Pay Attention to the Details of Your Case
A DUI charge is stressful, and dealing with the aftermath can make your pulse race. You have legal options and do not have to take the blame for a crime you did not commit. A DUI lawyer can evaluate these options with you, making sure your legal rights are protected.
If you have been charged with driving under the influence, let Los Angeles DUI Attorney assist you. We can connect you with an attorney who prioritizes your case. Schedule a case consultation today.
