Being stopped and charged with DUI (driving under the influence) in California is a serious matter. Over the last decade, California lawmakers have significantly increased the penalties and fines for DUI. A conviction leaves you with a criminal record, can involve jail time, and may have adverse consequences for future employment, your drivers license, car insurance, and even immigration status. The new laws also make it a second offense if you are convicted of a prior DUI within the past ten years of the current charge.

Some people think you don't need an attorney for a DUI. They say an attorney can't do much more than you could do yourself. While this may be true in some special cases, you should remember that a DUI charge puts into play all the constitutional rights you would have in any criminal matter (Probable Cause for the stop, Search and Seizure, Miranda issues and many more) that an experienced criminal attorney is trained to deal with. There may also be special investigation concerns that a lawyer is best left to handle, such as blood test results and refusal or failure to complete an alcohol test. Many DUI cases are thrown out or successfully defended on one of these issues.

You also have the right to a DMV hearing regarding the status of your license, but you must request a hearing from the DMV within 10 days of your arrest. This is a very important right you need to preserve at the onset of your case.

Finally, many people are simply intimidated and overwhelmed by the court process. In many cases, if you retain a lawyer, you do not need to attend the court hearings--your lawyer can appear on your behalf and negotiate for you. This option is often helpful for working people who simply can't afford to miss work or don't want to sit in court all day waiting for their case to be called.

I have successfully handled hundreds of DUI cases and DMV hearings. Our fees are very reasonable and we do accept finance arrangements when necessary. In most cases, I work on a flat fee basis which limits the amount of attorney's fees you're exposed to.

I also offer a free initial consultation, either in my office or over the phone, so give me a call if you have questions.