Being arrested for a first-time DUI can be a frightening and confusing experience. You may be unsure of what to expect, how it will affect your license, and what steps you need to take next.
At Los Angeles DUI Lawyer, we help people who are facing DUI charges for the first time get connected with attorneys who understand the law and how to protect their future. If you’re searching for a Pomona first offense DUI lawyer, we can walk you through the first steps toward crafting a solid legal defense.
We know that many people charged with a first DUI have never been in trouble with the law before. The process may feel more stressful than you can handle, but you don’t have to face it alone. By working with a Pomona DUI lawyer, you’ll have someone on your side who knows how the system works and what can be done to reduce the impact of the charges.
What to Expect from a First DUI Charge in Pomona
In California, a first driving under the influence charge is typically a misdemeanor, but that doesn’t mean it’s minor. A conviction can carry serious consequences, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time in some cases. Additionally, a DUI conviction stays on your record for years and can increase your insurance rates dramatically.
Here’s what usually happens after a first DUI arrest:
- Administrative license suspension: The DMV may suspend your license automatically unless a hearing is requested within 10 days.
- Criminal court process: You’ll need to appear in court and may face additional charges depending on the circumstances.
- Potential penalties: These include fines, probation, mandatory DUI school, and license restrictions.
A first offense DUI attorney in Pomona can help you navigate both the DMV process and your court case. They’ll give you the best chance of avoiding harsh penalties or having the charge reduced or dismissed.
Penalties for a First DUI Offense in California
While penalties can vary depending on the details of the arrest, standard consequences apply to most first-time DUI cases. The court will also consider any aggravating factors, such as excessive speed, having a minor in the car, or a high blood alcohol concentration.
Penalties for a first DUI may include:
- License suspension: Up to six months, plus an additional DMV suspension
- DUI education program: Usually a 3- or 9-month course, depending on BAC level
- Fines and fees: Can add up to several thousand dollars once all costs are included
- Probation: Typically three to five years of informal probation
- Jail time: Up to six months, though many first-time offenders avoid jail with the right legal support
A Pomona first offense DUI attorney may be able to negotiate alternatives such as reduced charges, community service, or enrollment in a diversion program that helps avoid a conviction altogether.
Building a Defense for Your First DUI
No two DUI cases are the same, and there are often valid legal defenses that can be used to challenge the charges. A skilled attorney will look at the details of your case to determine if any of your rights were violated or if the evidence is flawed.
A first offense DUI law firm in Pomona may build a defense strategy that includes:
- Challenging the traffic stop: If the stop was not legally justified, any evidence collected may be inadmissible.
- Disputing BAC results: Breathalyzers and blood tests must be conducted properly and within specific time frames.
- Questioning officer observations: Field sobriety tests and subjective opinions can be unreliable or misinterpreted.
- Exploring procedural errors: Any mistakes in how your arrest was handled could weaken the prosecution’s case.
We help you connect with attorneys who know how to build a defense that fits your situation and who have the experience necessary to push back against unfair charges.
Why Your First Offense DUI Lawyer in Pomona Needs to Have Experience
Just because it’s your first DUI doesn’t mean it won’t have serious consequences. The attorneys we work with understand how important it is to protect your driving record, avoid a criminal conviction, and minimize penalties.
With 19 years in operation and thousands of clients served, we’ve helped many people find the support they need to move forward after a first DUI arrest. We work with attorneys who bring decades of combined experience in DUI defense.
They know how Pomona courts handle these cases and what it takes to get a fair result. Whether that means arguing for a reduced charge, protecting your license, or pursuing dismissal, we help you find the legal guidance to make informed decisions.
What to Do After a First DUI Arrest
If you’ve been arrested for a first DUI in Pomona, don’t wait to get help. You only have 10 days to request a DMV hearing, and waiting too long could result in an automatic license suspension. The sooner you act, the more options you’ll have to fight the charges and protect your future.
At Los Angeles DUI Lawyer, we can connect you with a Pomona first offense DUI lawyer who will review your case and help you understand what to expect. Whether your case involves a borderline BAC, a checkpoint stop, or a minor accident, the right defense can make a big difference. We’re here to help you move forward, not just manage the consequences.
