A first DUI offense in California is more serious than many people realize. A conviction can affect your driver’s license, lead to costly fines, and even result in jail time. If you are facing this possible outcome, getting legal help is your next step.
A Torrance first offense DUI lawyer can protect your rights and your license and guide you through the legal process from start to finish. You don’t have to take on an important case like this by yourself.
A Torrance DUI lawyer can fight to reduce or dismiss your charges and help you avoid long-term consequences. You don’t have to wait to get legal help.
Los Angeles DUI Lawyer connects people with attorneys who know how to handle these cases and work toward the best outcome. Call today for a free consultation.
How a First Offense DUI Attorney in Torrance Can Help You
California DUI laws can be strict, but they are also complex, and not all cases are straightforward. An experienced DUI lawyer will explain how these laws apply to your case. They will also defend you in court and file an appeal if necessary.
Here are just some of the ways a criminal defense lawyer can help with your DUI case:
- Explain the charges you face and what they mean
- Review the evidence and check for errors in the arrest
- Challenge breath or blood test results
- Represent you at DMV hearings and in court
- Negotiate for reduced penalties or alternative sentencing
- File an appeal if your case doesn’t go in your favor
An attorney can also help with other post-conviction matters, such as expungement, early termination of probation, or restoring your driving privileges through the DMV.
Understanding First Time DUI Charges in California
If you are facing a DUI for the first time, you should know what California law says about driving under the influence. Per California Vehicle Code § 23152, it is against the law to drive:
- With a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher
- Under the influence of drugs, including legal prescriptions
- With a BAC of 0.04% or higher if you have a commercial driver’s license (CDL)
If you are under 21 years old or on DUI probation, California has a “zero-tolerance” law. If you need help with understanding these laws, Los Angeles DUI Lawyer will help you.
What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Torrance?
After a DUI arrest, the legal process moves quickly. Here’s what typically happens:
- Authorities take your license: You’ll be issued a temporary license and have 10 days to request a DMV hearing.
- You are booked and released: You may be held in jail for a few hours or overnight.
- Authorities file charges: The prosecutor decides whether to file charges based on police reports and test results.
- You get a court date: You’ll have an arraignment where you can plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
You can get help at every step from a lawyer, even before the authorities file formal charges. Call Los Angeles DUI Lawyer for a free consultation.
Penalties You Might Face for a First Time DUI-Related Offense
A first DUI in California is usually a misdemeanor. However, the consequences can still be serious. They include:
- Up to six months in jail
- License suspension for six months (plus four months from the DMV)
- Fines and penalty fees totaling $1,000 or more
- DUI education classes
- Mandatory use of an ignition interlock device (IID) that tests your breath before you can drive
Judges may also assign probation for three to five years instead of jail time. However, violating probation could land you back in court.
Can You Get Reduced Penalties or Alternative Sentencing?
If this is your first DUI offense, you may qualify for reduced penalties or an alternative to jail time. A Torrance first time DUI lawyer can fight to get you a better outcome, such as:
- DUI probation: Instead of jail, you may be placed on informal probation with conditions like attending DUI classes and avoiding new arrests.
- Alcohol education programs: Courts often require DUI school, but completing it may help you avoid harsher penalties.
- Community service or work programs: In some cases, you can do community labor or work in place of jail time.
- Wet reckless plea bargain: A lawyer might negotiate your charge down to a “wet reckless,” which carries lighter penalties than a DUI.
- No ignition interlock device (IID): With a good result, you might avoid the need for an IID in your car.
These options depend on the facts of your case and how your lawyer presents them. Not every judge will offer them without strong legal arguments on your behalf.
Common DUI Defenses in California
An experienced DUI lawyer can look for any mistakes in your case, such as:
- Unlawful traffic stop: Police must have a valid reason to pull you over.
- Faulty breath tests: Machines must be properly set and used correctly.
- Improper arrest procedure: Officers must follow legal procedures during your arrest.
- Medical conditions or diet: Some health conditions or foods can affect test results.
Your attorney will look at the details and find the strongest defense possible for your case.
When Should You Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
Waiting until charges are formal and on record isn’t necessary. A Torrance DUI attorney handling first offense cases can help if:
- You are under arrest
- Law enforcement is questioning you
- Authorities are investigating you
- You believe charges may be coming soon
The sooner you speak with a lawyer, the better your chances of protecting your rights and building a strong defense.
Get Legal Help for a First Offense DUI in Torrance, CA
Don’t let a DUI charge derail your future. The right legal help can guide you forward. Whether you need more information about the charges or are worried about court, a Torrance first offense DUI lawyer can help you plan your next steps and protect your future.
Los Angeles DUI Lawyer can connect you with help from an attorney who knows the process inside and out and can handle your entire case, from arrest to appeal.
Call today for a free consultation.
