In California, a commercial DUI charge can be career-ending. If you are facing one, a Van Nuys DUI lawyer can help you fight it.
A commercial DUI charge is more than just a legal problem—it’s a direct threat to your financial future. Without legal representation, you’ll risk losing your commercial driving career.
Los Angeles DUI Lawyer has connected thousands of Californians with experienced DUI lawyers. If you have been charged with a commercial DUI, a Van Nuys commercial DUI lawyer can fight for a favorable outcome.
Why Hire a Van Nuys Commercial DUI Attorney?
If you’re facing commercial DUI charges, a lawyer can:
- Examine the evidence: An attorney can review police reports, testing procedures, and other prosecutorial evidence to identify errors, inconsistencies, or rights violations that could be used in your defense.
- Represent you at your DMV hearing: An attorney can argue on your behalf to prevent or reduce a CDL suspension.
- Negotiate for reduced charges: A lawyer can work to get your DUI reduced to a lesser offense that won’t cost you your career.
- Advocate for you in court: Your attorney can present a strong defense and argue for the best possible outcome in court.
A Van Nuys commercial DUI attorney can advocate for you throughout every step of the legal process.
What Happens if I Get a Commercial DUI in CA?
California law imposes severe consequences for CDL holders convicted of DUIs, even if the offense is committed in a personal vehicle. Potential penalties include:
- License suspension: A first offense results in a 1-year CDL suspension. A second offense results in a lifetime revocation.
- Jail time: You may be sentenced to up to 1 year in county jail.
- Fines: You could face fines and assessments totaling thousands of dollars.
- DUI program: You’ll have to attend mandatory alcohol education classes.
- Probation: You could be placed on informal probation for 3 to 5 years.
A commercial DUI lawyer in Van Nuys can work to minimize the ramifications of your charges.
Common Defenses
The best defense against your charges will depend on the specifics of your case. That said, some of the most common defenses used in commercial DUI cases include:
- Challenging the traffic stop: If police had no legal reason to pull you over, evidence gathered afterward may be inadmissible.
- Questioning BAC test accuracy: Breathalyzers and blood tests must meet strict calibration and handling standards.
- Proving rising BAC: Your BAC might have been below the legal limit while driving, but above it by the time you were tested.
- Medical or dietary factors: Certain medical conditions or diets can cause misleadingly high BAC readings.
- Violation of rights: If law enforcement failed to follow proper procedures, your case could be dismissed.
A Van Nuys commercial DUI attorney can help you develop a strong defense.
How Long Do You Have to Wait to Get a CDL After a DUI in CA?
If your CDL is suspended for a first-time DUI, you must wait one year before reapplying. For a second DUI offense (whether in a commercial or non-commercial vehicle), California law imposes a lifetime CDL disqualification with no possibility of reinstatement.
In some cases, you may be eligible for a restricted non-commercial license before your suspension ends, but it will not allow you to drive a commercial vehicle.
How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record in California?
In California, a DUI conviction remains on your driving record for 10 years from the date of your arrest. During this time, law enforcement, the DMV, and insurers can see it, and any subsequent DUI can trigger harsher penalties.
In addition, a DUI will remain on your criminal record indefinitely unless you obtain an expungement after completing your probation. Expungement does not remove the DUI from your DMV record, but it can help with background checks.
Insurance companies typically take a DUI into account for up to 7 years, which may result in higher premiums or even loss of coverage.
What Is the Maximum BAC for Commercial Drivers in CA?
Per California VC 23152(b), the legal BAC for individuals operating a commercial vehicle is 0.04%. If you’re driving your personal vehicle, a 0.08% limit applies, but a conviction will still trigger the penalties mentioned above.
Steps to Take After a Commercial DUI Arrest
After a commercial DUI arrest, it’s critical to:
- Comply with law enforcement: Cooperate with officers during the arrest to avoid additional charges or complications.
- Avoid speaking to the police: Politely decline to talk to the police without your lawyer present. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Request a DMV hearing: You have only 10 days from the date of your arrest to request a hearing to challenge your CDL suspension.
- Contact a commercial DUI lawyer: The sooner you involve an attorney, the stronger your defense will be.
Consult with a Van Nuys Commercial DUI Attorney
A commercial DUI charge can be scary, but you don’t have to fight it alone. Los Angeles DUI Lawyer can connect you with a skilled Van Nuys commercial DUI attorney who can protect your rights and build a strong defense.
Call today to find out how you can protect your future.
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