You can get professional help building a defense strategy to protect yourself after an arrest for driving under the influence (DUI). You can turn to a Norwalk misdemeanor DUI lawyer to help with these accusations.
California treats most DUIs as misdemeanors, with convictions potentially leading to jail time, fines, and other penalties. A Norwalk DUI lawyer can step in to help you, providing the support you deserve as you navigate the legal system.
Los Angeles DUI Lawyer has decades of experience connecting drivers like you to criminal defense lawyers who can provide dedicated support. You can reach out to us 24/7 to discuss your legal situation.
Why Hire a Misdemeanor DUI Lawyer in Norwalk, CA?
Hiring a criminal defense attorney after an arrest can bolster your chances of successfully resolving a misdemeanor DUI charge. A lawyer can provide the assistance you need to handle any legal challenges associated with your charges.
Your lawyer can ensure you understand what happens with a misdemeanor DUI. Generally, after an arrest, you’ll face an arraignment hearing, where the court will explain your charges and expect you to enter a plea.
You may also need to attend a bail hearing. The court can order you to pay bail if you want to stay out of jail before your trial. Your lawyer can stand with you through all these hearings and provide the support you deserve.
Lawyers Help You Avoid Mistakes
It’s easy to make mistakes after a DUI arrest that can increase the chances of a conviction. Your attorney can help you identify seven mistakes to avoid in a misdemeanor DUI case, protecting your rights and your future.
Some common mistakes involve discussing your charges with police officers or answering the prosecution’s questions without your lawyer present. These actions can strengthen the case against you, so get help from your attorney immediately.
How Lawyers Handle Misdemeanor DUI Charges
A misdemeanor DUI attorney in Norwalk can explore multiple options to handle your charges. Depending on your situation, a lawyer could focus on:
Getting the Charges Reduced
In some cases, a lawyer can negotiate with the prosecution to get your misdemeanor DUI charges reduced to a less serious offense, like reckless driving. In order to reduce your charges, you’ll have to accept a plea bargain, admitting guilt for another crime.
Your attorney can handle the plea bargaining process, determining if the prosecution offers a good deal.
The prosecution is more likely to offer a plea bargain after a first-time DUI arrest. However, you may have this option even if you have past DUIs on your record.
Having Your Charges Dropped
In some cases, the court will drop a misdemeanor DUI charge. However, the court may only make this decision if the prosecution lacks evidence or if the police violate your rights during the legal process.
A lawyer can review your situation and give you more information about this option.
Fighting DUI Charges in Court
Your attorney can get to work immediately on a personalized defense for the courtroom. Depending on your situation, a lawyer may argue that:
- The police stopped you without reasonable cause
- The police failed to follow procedure when administering a blood alcohol content (BAC) test
- The police waited too long to administer a BAC test
- The lab mishandled your test
An attorney will need to review the specifics of your situation before deciding on a defense strategy.
It’s crucial that you get help quickly after an arrest, as the consequences of a DUI conviction can prove severe. You could face fines, time in jail, and limitations on your driving privileges. In some cases, California may order you to install an ignition interlock device (IID) on your vehicle after a conviction.
Your Lawyer Can Help at Your Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Hearing
The DMV plays a role in handling misdemeanor DUI accusations in California. In fact, the DUI will automatically suspend your license unless you request an administrative hearing within 10 days of your arrest.
An attorney can explain the process of requesting this hearing and represent you when dealing with the DMV. The DMV cannot get rid of your DUI charges, but it may decide not to immediately suspend your license after a hearing.
Are All DUI Charges Misdemeanors in California?
California treats most DUI charges as misdemeanors. However, you can face felony charges in some situations. For example, DUIs may automatically qualify as felonies if you have multiple past DUIs within a 10-year period.
Drivers can also face felony charges if the police accuse them of causing an accident while impaired by alcohol. Your attorney can help with any kind of DUI charges you face and explain the steps you need to take after an arrest.
Get Professional Help Handling a Misdemeanor DUI in Norwalk, CA
You can rely on a Norwalk misdemeanor DUI attorney to help with your legal needs after an arrest. Getting help fast means you’ll have someone on your side every step of the way, supporting you and building a personalized defense.
Los Angeles DUI Lawyer can help you connect with a law firm that can handle your legal needs. We’re here 24/7 to offer you the guidance you need when you look for a criminal defense attorney.
Fact Checked
