Start getting professional help handling charges for driving under the influence (DUI) in Dana Point today. The team at the Simmrin Law Group understands how important it is to treat DUI charges seriously. We know that a DUI conviction can result in fines, jail time, and the suspension of your driver’s license.
Let us begin working on a strong defense for you today. You can work with our DUI lawyers in Dana Point to take charge of your future. Securing professional legal help immediately after an arrest can increase the odds that you will successfully resolve the DUI charges you’re facing.
The Basics About Dana Point DUIs
According to the legal codes in California, any driver can be charged with a DUI for operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Generally, drivers are considered to be under the influence of alcohol if their blood alcohol content (BAC) exceeds the following limits:
- 0.08% for non-commercial drivers over 21
- 0.04% for commercial drivers over 21
- 0.01% for drivers under 21
However, DUI charges sometimes apply even if a driver’s BAC is below the legal limit. Prosecutors treat DUIs in Dana Point as either misdemeanors or felonies. Convictions result in a number of serious penalties, so it is important that you reach out to a criminal defense lawyer in Dana Point quickly.
For a free legal consultation with a lawyer serving Dana Point, call (310) 896-2723
BAC Assessments in Dana Point
Law enforcement officers are equipped to measure a driver’s BAC during a traffic stop. If an officer believes your BAC is above the legal limit, they may ask you to complete a chemical test. Generally, these assessments test your blood or breath, though urine tests may sometimes be used.
Note that you must complete these assessments in many situations. If a law enforcement officer informs you that the test is legally required, you must complete it or you can face additional criminal charges. Additionally, you are always required to carry out these tests if you are:
- Under 21
- On DUI probation
- Legally arrested
You should be aware that you have options to build a defense even if you fail a BAC test in Dana Point. Your traffic violations lawyer could dispute the results of these tests, strengthening your defense to DUI charges.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
Results of Dana Point DUI Convictions
DUI convictions can vary in severity. Misdemeanor charges are generally punished less harshly than felonies. However, DUIs are also treated as priorable offenses in Dana Point. Once you are convicted for a DUI, it will count against you if you are arrested for a subsequent DUI offense.
Review some examples of DUI penalties to understand how the penalties increase with each DUI conviction in California’s court system:
First DUI Conviction
- Fines: Up to $2,000
- Jail Time: Up to six months
- License Suspension: Up to one year
Second DUI Conviction
- Fines: Up to $2,500
- Jail Time: Up to one year
- License Suspension: Up to two years
Third DUI Conviction
- Fines: Up to $3,000
- Jail Time: Up to two years
- License Suspension: Up to three years
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Legal Hurdles and Dana Point DUI Charges
Resolving DUI charges in Dana Point on your own can be challenging. Fortunately, you can get professional help from a DUI lawyer. A legal professional can assist you with:
Interactions with Prosecutors
You will be questioned after a DUI arrest. You should not discuss your charges with anyone – including prosecutors – until after you have secured legal support. Your lawyer can also review any plea bargains you are offered by prosecutors to make sure they are fair to you.
The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
Drivers charged with a DUI need to contact the DMV within 10 days of an arrest to request a special hearing. If you do not request this hearing, the DMV can automatically suspend your license after 30 days. Get help handling this hearing by contacting the Simmrin Law Group.
Your Criminal Case
Your lawyer can investigate the facts surrounding your DUI arrest while working to block evidence against you. In some circumstances, your lawyer could get your charges reduced to acceptable levels or dismissed. The team at the Simmrin Law Group is also prepared to defend you in front of a judge and jury.
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Call a Dana Point DUI Lawyer for Help
Make sure you’re ready to take on Dana Point DUI charges by contacting the Simmrin Law Group. We can help you quickly after you are arrested. Our team of DUI lawyers in Dana Point know what it takes to build a successful defense to the charges you are facing. Find out more with a FREE initial case evaluation.
It’s easy to contact our team of legal professionals. Just complete our online contact form or call (310) 896-2723.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form