You can get fast legal help if you are accused of driving under the influence (DUI) in Arcadia, CA. A DUI conviction can quickly turn very serious. Convictions for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can even result in jail time, fines, and the suspension of your license. But the right Arcadia DUI lawyer can help you understand the charges against you, start preparing your legal defense and represent you in court.
Make sure you are ready to meet these charges head-on by getting help from a DUI lawyer in Arcadia as soon as you are arrested. The professionals at the Simmrin Law Group can start focusing on your defense right now, increasing the odds that you will beat the charges you are facing.
Situations that Can Lead to DUI Charges in Arcadia
Police officers in Arcadia can pull drivers over if they suspect the driver is operating a vehicle under the influence of either drugs or alcohol. Local law enforcement teams can also establish DUI checkpoints to check hundreds of drivers on major roadways next to popular bars. If you are pulled over in this situation, you could be asked to complete:
- Chemical testing
- Field sobriety tests
These assessments are used to measure your ability to operate a vehicle and – in the case of chemical tests – your blood alcohol content (BAC). The state of California has set legal limits for BAC for drivers. You can face criminal charges if your BAC exceeds:
- 01% if you are under 21
- 04% if you are a commercial driver
- 08% if you are a noncommercial driver over 21
A DUI lawyer in Arcadia can help you if you fail a field sobriety test or if your BAC is reported as above the legal limit. While it is sometimes possible to refuse a test, this can lead to more severe and long-lasting legal consequences. Start building a defense in these situations by contacting an Arcadia DUI lawyer from the Simmrin Law Group today.
Results of DUI Convictions in Arcadia, CA
The penalties for a DUI conviction in Arcadia can be tricky to understand. This is because the penalties change depending on how many prior DUI convictions there are on your record. Each DUI conviction comes with harsher penalties; you can also face stricter penalties and harsher charges if you were driving under the influence with aggravating factors such as having a minor in the car, causing a collision while impaired, or killing or injuring someone while driving under the influence.
Let’s go over the penalties for basic DUI convictions to demonstrate:
Penalties for a First-Time DUI Conviction
- Fines: Up to $2,000
- Jail Time: Up to Six Months
- License Suspension: Up to One Year
Penalties for a Second-Time DUI Conviction
- Fines: Up to $2,500
- Jail Time: Up to One Years
- License Suspension: Up to Two Years
Penalties for a Third-Time DUI Conviction
- Fines: Up to $3,000
- Jail Time: Up to One Year
- License Suspension: Up to Three Years
As you can see, it’s very important that you get professional help from a criminal defense lawyer in Arcadia to handle any DUI charge. Building a strong defense quickly can reduce the odds that you will be convicted of a DUI violation in Arcadia.
Along with criminal proceedings, the DMV will automatically suspend your license if certain obligations aren’t met. You must schedule a hearing within ten days of your DUI charges to retain your license, and an Arcadia DUI attorney can help you manage this process.
Different Charges Used to Prosecute DUIs in Arcadia
You should be aware that there are several different charges used to prosecute DUIs in the court system in Arcadia. Each of these charges is handled a little differently. A legal professional can give you the help you need if you are charged with:
- California Vehicle Code §23140
- California Vehicle Code §23152(a)
- California Vehicle Code §23152(b)
- California Vehicle Code §23152(f)
- California Vehicle Code §23153
Make sure you are ready to take on any DUI charge in Arcadia by reaching out to the Simmrin Law Group. Let us go over the specifics of your case to construct a defense that addresses your unique needs.
Methods to Resolve DUI Charges in Arcadia
There is no single way to resolve every DUI accusation in California. A DUI lawyer can go over the facts of your case to provide you with the personalized care that you need after you are arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Some defense strategies may include:
- Proving you were not intoxicated or impaired during the incident
- Establishing that you were not driving during the incident
- Establishing that you did not commit or were not at fault for aggravating factors such as a collision
- Proving that the questioning or evidence-gathering methodologies used by law enforcement were incorrect, inappropriate, or mishandled
These defense strategies can result in having the charges reduced or dismissed entirely. It’s important to start working with a DUI attorney in Arcadia as soon as possible so there’s ample time to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and your charges.
Depending upon your situation, your lawyer may work to secure you a fair plea bargain. Plea bargains may allow you to resolve a DUI charge outside of the court system. However, you will still face penalties if you accept a plea bargain.
Your DUI lawyer could also handle your case in court, in front of a judge and jury. Let us put your needs first after you are charged with a DUI. We can focus on constructing a strong defense for you right now.
An Arcadia DUI Lawyer Can Go to Work for You Today
Get professional help handling DUI charges by contacting a DUI lawyer in Arcadia. You can speak with the Simmrin Law Group today. Lawyers can start offering you the legal advice that you need right away with a FREE case evaluation.
Take control of your future after a DUI accusation by calling or filling out our online contact form. Our legal team is here to help Arcadia residents and visitors fight for their rights and have a strong legal defense.