Alhambra drivers can end up in serious legal trouble if they are accused of driving under the influence.
Driving under the influence (DUI) is one of the most harshly punished traffic violations in Alhambra, CA. Drivers who are accused of a DUI can face a criminal trial as well as a hearing with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), leading to an incredibly difficult legal battle.
You can increase the odds that you will beat the DUI charges you are facing by reaching out to a team of professional DUI lawyers in Alhambra. The Simmrin Law Group has experience handling DUI cases and we’re ready to start working on your defense today.
Legal Codes Surrounding DUI Charges in Alhambra
The court system in Alhambra uses several different legal codes to prosecute individuals accused of driving under the influence. You may be charged with a DUI for getting behind the wheel after drinking alcohol or after using certain controlled substances, including prescription medications. In fact, any substance that can impair your ability to safely operate a vehicle can lead to DUI charges in Alhambra.
If you are arrested for driving while under the influence of alcohol, your blood alcohol content (BAC) must generally be above 0.08 percent. However, you can face charges if your BAC is as low as 0.01 percent if you are under 21. Additionally, commercial drivers must keep their BAC below 0.04%.
You should also be aware that DUI charges are considered priorable offenses in Alhambra. This means that, if you are convicted, that conviction will count against you if you are arrested for a subsequent DUI. Individuals who have more than 1 DUI conviction will face increased penalties.
Understanding Alhambra DUI Traffic Stops
You may be charged with a DUI after an accident or after a police officer pulls you over. A police officer may ask you to:
- Complete a Chemical Test
- Complete Field Sobriety Tests
Some drivers are technically allowed to refuse these tests. However, you must comply with the tests if:
- You Are Legally Arrested
- You Are Under 21
- You Are on DUI Probation
You can face criminal charges if you refuse a legally required test, so caution is very much recommended when you are facing a DUI traffic stop. You should contact a criminal defense lawyer in Alhambra as quickly as you can to protect yourself from these charges.
Go Over the Penalties for a DUI Conviction
DUI convictions can have a number of serious repercussions. These penalties generally grow more severe each time you are convicted of driving under the influence. Depending on your situation, you could be subjected to:
DUI Fines:
- 1st DUI Offense: Up to $2,000
- 2nd DUI Offense: Up to $2,500
- 3rd DUI Offense: Up to $3,000
DUI Jail Time:
- 1st DUI Offense: Up to 6 Months
- 2nd DUI Offense: Up to 1 Year
- 3rd DUI Offense: Up to 1 Year
DUI License Suspension:
- 1st DUI Offense: Up to 1 Year
- 2nd DUI Offense: Up to 2 Years
- 3rd DUI Offense: Up to 3 Years
Note that the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can suspend your license after a DUI charge, even if you beat the criminal charges you are facing. You must request a hearing with the DMV within 10 days of your arrest.
You may be able to avoid a license suspension by accepting an ignition interlock device (IID) restricted license. Cars that have an IID will not start if your BAC is too high. You can reach out to a DUI lawyer to learn more about your legal options after an arrest.
Get Professional Help Handling DUI Charges Now
Trying to beat a DUI charge on your own can give prosecutors exactly what they want. You can boost your odds of successfully resolving your case by reaching out to a DUI lawyer right here in Alhambra. The Simmrin Law Group can:
- Investigate Your Case
- Work to Get Evidence Thrown Out
- Focus on Getting Your Case Dismissed
Depending on the facts surrounding your case, you may be able to secure a fair plea bargain. Our team can also fight hard for you in both court and during your DMV hearing.
An Alhambra DUI Lawyer Can Help You
DUI charges can have a lasting impact on your life. You can increase your chances of beating the charges against you by reaching out to a DUI lawyer in Alhambra immediately. The Simmrin Law Group can begin preparing your defense today, beginning with a FREE consultation about your specific case.
Start focusing on your future by completing our online contact form, or calling (310) 997-4688 to get the legal answers you need now.