Have you recently been arrested and charged with a DUI? Investing in a Thousand Oaks DUI lawyer could save you thousands of dollars, minimize the length of time you spend in jail, and overall reduce the consequences you end up suffering due to your arrest.
An attorney may be able to help you keep your driver’s license, get you a plea bargain, or even perhaps get your charges dropped as if they never happened.
Contact Los Angeles DUI Attorney to connect with a DUI lawyer today and find out how they may be able to help you.
Why You Need a Thousand Oaks DUI Attorney Immediately
Don’t wait until it’s almost time for your trial to contact a Thousand Oaks DUI attorney. Understanding the DMV hearing after receiving a DUI means you need to hire a lawyer less than 10 days after your arrest if you want any chances at keeping your driver’s license.
The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) automatically suspends your driver’s license 30 days after your arrest unless you request a hearing within 10 days.
At this hearing, an experienced DUI lawyer may be able to help you keep your driver’s license and prevent it from being suspended; however, you must file for a hearing within 10 days; there are no extensions or appeals, so contact a DUI attorney as soon as you can for any chances at not having your license suspended for a few months or years.
What Are the Penalties for a DUI Conviction in California?
When you know what to expect after a DUI conviction, you’ll understand the importance of hiring an attorney who may be able to help you plead guilty to lesser charges or get your case dismissed entirely.
Some of the penalties you might be faced with if you’re convicted of a DUI in California include a suspended license, fines, jail, losing your professional license, and more.
Suspended Driver’s License
You must request a hearing with the DMV within 10 days of your arrest and have a lawyer successfully represent you and convince the DMV not to suspend your license. If not, you will lose it for at least a few months and possibly as long as a few years–even if you don’t end up getting convicted.
Fines
Fines and court fees can cost thousands of dollars, especially if this isn’t your first drunk driving incident.
DUI School
Not only is the DUI school you will be required to attend a massive time-suck when you would rather be working or spending time with your family, but it costs upwards of $575, and you must pay the fee and take the course if it becomes part of your sentence.
Incarceration
At a minimum, you’re looking at 48 hours in jail. However, even for a first-time offense, you could spend up to six months in prison. The more DUI offenses you rack up within 10 years, the longer the prison sentence you will be facing.
Usage of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
Thanks to the Statewide Ignition Interlock Device Pilot Program, you may need to spend an initial $75-150 to have an IID installed in your vehicle, and then you must pay $100 or more per month for the lease and regular calibration of the device.
Loss of Professional Licenses
If you have any kind of professional license–whether you’re a certified public accountant or a doctor–it may be suspended or even revoked if you get convicted of a DUI.
Should You Accept a Plea Bargain?
While DUI plea bargains can help reduce the consequences you face after a DUI incident, you’re unlikely to get a good deal without the help of a Thousand Oaks DUI attorney.
If the prosecutor offers you a deal and you don’t have a DUI lawyer representing you, it probably isn’t a very good deal.
How a DUI Attorney in Thousand Oaks Can Help You
There are many ways a DUI lawyer can help with your case, including:
- Investigating your arrest
- Using evidence to build a solid defense strategy
- Challenging the legality of the arresting police officer’s conduct
- Negotiating with the prosecutor for a good plea bargain
- Representing you during your DMV hearing, trial, and other proceedings
- Collecting evidence
- Helping you avoid a driver’s license suspension
- Challenging the validity of blood alcohol concentration test results
- Helping you find an alcohol education class or treatment program
- Fighting to get your criminal charges dropped or at least reduced
Contact a Thousand Oaks DUI Lawyer Now
Now that you’ve seen how a Thousand Oaks DUI Lawyer can save you thousands of dollars, schedule a free consultation today before you lose your license and face the maximum penalties for driving while under the influence.
Time is of the essence; you have less than 10 days from your arrest to request a hearing and stop your license from getting suspended. Contact Los Angeles DUI Attorney today to get connected with a local defense lawyer.
