Driving under the influence in California can have serious consequences. Without legal assistance, you run the risk of life-changing penalties. If you’ve been charged with a misdemeanor DUI, a Pomona DUI lawyer can protect your rights.
Reach out to Los Angeles DUI Lawyer today. We have helped thousands of people facing charges like yours. Our team wants to assist you, too, by connecting you with a Pomona misdemeanor DUI lawyer who can help you mount a defense. Call today.
Penalties for a DUI in California
California imposes strict penalties for DUI convictions, even for first-time offenders. These penalties may include:
- Fines and fees: A first-time DUI can result in up to $1,000 in fines. Court fees and other costs can increase this total significantly.
- License suspension: Your license could be suspended for six months or longer. You may also be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID).
- DUI education programs: Attendance at DUI school, which can last up to nine months, is often mandatory.
- Probation: Informal probation lasting three to five years is common.
- Jail time: First-time offenders can face up to six months in county jail.
Repeat offenders face harsher penalties, including longer license suspensions, mandatory IID installation, and extended jail sentences. A misdemeanor DUI lawyer in Pomona can work to minimize the consequences of your charges.
Is It Worth Getting a Lawyer for a DUI in California?
Hiring a DUI lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Specifically, an experienced attorney can:
- Challenge the validity of breathalyzer and field sobriety tests.
- Negotiate reduced charges or alternative sentencing.
- Represent you in court.
Given the serious consequences of a DUI conviction, investing in legal representation is well worth the cost.
How to Beat a DUI Charge in California
While DUI charges are serious, they are not unbeatable. Common defense strategies include:
- Challenging the traffic stop: Police must have probable cause to stop your vehicle. If they lacked justification, the evidence they gathered may be inadmissible.
- Questioning test accuracy: Breathalyzer machines and blood tests are not infallible. Calibration errors or improper handling can lead to false readings.
- Proving medical conditions: Certain health conditions, such as acid reflux or diabetes, can produce false positives in breathalyzer tests.
- Demonstrating rights violations: If your rights were violated during the arrest, the evidence police gathered may be excluded.
A misdemeanor DUI attorney in Pomona can assess your case and develop a strong, personalized defense.
The Cost of a DUI in Pomona
The financial burden of a DUI conviction extends beyond fines. Additional costs include:
- Court fees: These can add hundreds or even thousands of dollars to your expenses.
- Increased insurance rates: A DUI conviction can cause your car insurance premiums to skyrocket for several years.
- DUI school: Enrollment fees for mandatory programs can cost several hundred dollars.
What Happens After a DUI Arrest in California?
After you’re arrested for a DUI, you can expect the following steps:
- Booking and release: You may be held in custody or released on bail.
- Administrative license suspension: The DMV will initiate an administrative suspension of your driver’s license unless you request a hearing within 10 days.
- Arraignment: You will appear in court to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pretrial and trial: If you plead not guilty, your case will proceed to pretrial hearings and potentially a trial.
Will I Go to Jail for My First DUI in California?
Jail time for a first-time DUI is possible but not guaranteed. Many first-time offenders avoid jail through alternative sentencing options like:
- Community service
- Probation
- Participation in a DUI diversion program
Aggravating factors, such as causing an accident or having a high blood alcohol content (BAC), can increase your likelihood of jail time.
How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record in California?
A California DUI conviction remains on your driving record for 10 years and cannot be removed during that period. It also stays on your criminal record indefinitely unless expunged. This can affect your employment opportunities, insurance rates, and more.
Can a First-Time DUI Be Dismissed in California?
Yes, a first-time DUI can be dismissed. Common reasons for dismissal include:
- Insufficient evidence
- Procedural errors by law enforcement
- Successful negotiation by your attorney
An experienced Pomona DUI attorney can identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and fight to get your charges reduced or dismissed.
What to Do If You’ve Been Arrested for a DUI in California
If you’ve been arrested for a DUI, it’s important to take the following steps:
- Remain calm and cooperative: Work with the police and avoid making incriminating statements.
- Document details: Write down everything you remember about the arrest, including the behavior of the arresting officer.
- Request a DMV hearing: You have 10 days to challenge your license suspension.
- Consult a DUI lawyer: Seek legal advice as soon as possible to protect your rights.
Speak with a Pomona Misdemeanor DUI Attorney Today
A DUI charge can be scary, but you don’t have to fight it alone. The knowledgeable team at Los Angeles DUI Lawyer can connect you with a DUI attorney to provide the support and expertise you need to achieve the best possible outcome.
Call today to connect with a Pomona misdemeanor DUI attorney and take the first step toward protecting your future.
