Driving under the influence (DUI) is a dangerous activity that can endanger vehicle passengers, other drivers, and pedestrians. The courts can punish drivers who are accused of a DUI incredibly harshly. DUI convictions can lead to:
- Fines
- Jail Time
- The Loss of Your License
Many drivers in Costa Mesa do not realize how severe a DUI accusation can be. Do not risk your future by ignoring a DUI charge. Take steps to get the legal help you need by contacting a DUI lawyer in Costa Mesa as soon as you are charged with a DUI.
The legal professionals at the Simmrin Law Group have experience fighting for clients facing DUI charges. Contact us today so we can go over your unique situation and begin building your defense.
Criminal Charges for a DUI in Costa Mesa
Many drivers face DUI charges after being pulled over or involved in a motor vehicle accident. You can be charged with a criminal act for operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) that exceeds the legal limits in Costa Mesa. Generally, you are not allowed to drive with a BAC above:
- 08% for Non-Commercial Drivers Over 21
- 04% for Commercial Drivers Over 21
- 01% for Drivers Under 21
However, California does have vehicle codes that it can use to charge you with a crime for driving under the influence of alcohol, even if your BAC does not exceed these limits. You can get help fighting any DUI charge by contacting a Costa Mesa DUI lawyer now.
DUIs in Costa Mesa and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
You will likely have to deal with a criminal case if you are charged with a DUI. You will also have to face a hearing before the Costa Mesa Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). All drivers accused of a DUI have to address this DMV hearing.
You will have 10 days after a DUI arrest to request a hearing with the DMV. Drivers that fail to request a hearing in this period of time will automatically have their license suspended.
Note that the DMV may choose to suspend your license even if the criminal charges against you are dropped. A professional criminal defense lawyer in Costa Mesa can help you handle both your criminal case and your DMV hearing.
Penalties for a DUI Conviction in Costa Mesa
You can end up facing serious legal penalties if you are convicted of a DUI. The penalties for a DUI also grow harsher each time you are convicted. This makes it vitally important that you reach out to a DUI lawyer in Costa Mesa right away.
Trying to handle a DUI charge on your own can increase the odds that you will face:
Fines
- 1st DUI Offense: Up to $2,000
- 2nd DUI Offense: Up to $2,500
- 3rd DUI Offense: Up to $3,000
Jail Time
- 1st DUI Offense: Up to 6 Months
- 2nd DUI Offense: Up to 1 Year
- 3rd DUI Offense: Up to 1 Year
License Suspension
- 1st DUI Offense: Up to 1 Year
- 2nd DUI Offense: Up to 2 Years
- 3rd DUI Offense: Up to 3 Years
You can also be forced to complete an alcohol treatment program if you are convicted of a DUI in Costa Mesa. The court may also require that you install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) into your vehicle. This device measures your BAC before allowing you to start your car.
You do not have to try to fight these harsh penalties on your own. A DUI lawyer may be able to build a defense for your case. Sometimes, DUI charges are dismissed if your lawyer can prove that the tests you took were inaccurate.
A DUI lawyer might also be able to argue that a police officer pulled you over without reason, or that the officer failed to follow the correct procedures when administering sobriety tests. The Simmrin Law Group might be able to get your charges dismissed or reduced to a less severe dry reckless charge.
Let a Costa Mesa DUI Lawyer Stand Up for You
DUI charges can lead to incarceration, fines, and the loss of your license. Increase your odds of beating a DUI accusation by contacting the Simmrin Law Group today. You can rely on our professional DUI lawyers in Costa Mesa to assess your legal options. We may be able to build you a strong defense while helping you handle your DMV hearing. Call (310) 997-4688 or fill out our online contact form to get started.
You can reach out to us for a FREE initial case evaluation for any DUI charge in Costa Mesa.
