Charges for driving under the influence (DUI) are harshly punished. A DUI conviction in our area can result in fines, jail time, and even the suspension of your driver’s license. Prosecutors can work quickly to build a case against you after you are arrested.
Fortunately, you do not have to try to handle DUI charges on your own. The professionals at the Simmrin Law Group can begin defending you today. Speak with our Hawaiian Gardens DUI lawyer to get the legal help you deserve after you are arrested for a DUI.
The Definition Of Driving Under The Influence
The state of California defines driving under the influence as operating a motor vehicle while inebriated or impaired by the use of chemical substances. This means you could be charged with a DUI if you get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol, using some prescription medications, or taking an illicit drug.
You can face misdemeanor or felony charges if you are accused of a DUI in Hawaiian Gardens. Misdemeanor charges are more commonly used. However, you could be charged with a felony if:
- You have previous DUI convictions on your record.
- Someone was hurt as a result of the DUI.
Get help handling either misdemeanor or felony DUI charges by contacting a criminal defense lawyer in Hawaiian Gardens right now.
For a free legal consultation with a lawyer serving Hawaiian Gardens, call (310) 896-2723
Alcohol Usage And DUIs In Hawaiian Gardens
The majority of DUI charges in Hawaiian Gardens involve alcohol. The state of California prohibits all drivers from operating their vehicles in a state of inebriation. A driver’s ability to operate a vehicle is sometimes associated with their blood alcohol content (BAC).
The state of California set up limits on BAC for drivers. Law enforcement officers can charge you with a DUI if you are:
- Over 21 and your BAC is at or above 0.08%
- A commercial driver and your BAC is at or above 0.04%
- Under 21 and your BAC is at or above 0.01%
Drivers who violate these regulations may always be arrested for a DUI. However, you could also be arrested if your BAC is below these limits in some cases, which can make DUI charges very difficult to handle on your own.
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DUI Convictions And Penalties In Hawaiian Gardens
DUIs can be harshly punished in the court system in Hawaiian Gardens. A conviction for a basic DUI offense could lead to:
- Jail time of up to six months
- Fines of up to $2,000
- License suspension of up to one year
These are examples of the penalties for a first-time DUI conviction. Note that these penalties will no longer apply if you are arrested for a second DUI. If you are convicted of two DUIs, your penalties can increase to:
- Jail time of up to one year
- Fines of up to $2,500
- License suspension of up to two years
The penalties associated with DUI convictions can continue to increase with subsequent convictions. A DUI attorney serving Hawaiian Gardens can help you resolve a first or subsequent DUI arrest.
Other Fallout Of A DWI Conviction In Hawaiian Gardens
Although suspension or revocation of your driver’s license, exorbitant fines, and jail or prison time are difficult consequences to bear, they are not the only ways your life will be affected if you are convicted of a DWI in Hawaiian Gardens.
Having a conviction on your record could haunt you for the rest of your life. If your criminal background reflects your conviction, it may make it difficult for you to find safe or affordable housing, obtain a high-quality job that you love, and retain your child custody and visitation rights.
You are also at risk of losing your firearm rights, opportunities for federal student aid, and right to vote. Not to mention the difficulty you will face if your personal and professional reputations are destroyed by a DUI conviction. Protect yourself from the implications of DUI laws in Hawaiian Gardens when you retain a powerful legal defender.
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Hawaiian Gardens DUI Charges And Legal Hurdles
It’s important that you get professional help on your side quickly if you are accused of a DUI in Hawaiian Gardens. You will likely need legal assistance handling:
Interactions With Prosecutors
Prosecutors will question you about your DUI charges after you are arrested. You should not discuss any aspect of your case until you have a DUI lawyer in your corner. Prosecutors can use everything you say against you.
Plea Bargains
In some cases, your DUI charge can be reduced to a reasonable level by your DUI attorney in Hawaiian Gardens. In this situation, you may need to accept a plea bargain that requires you to accept guilt for a less serious crime. You should avoid accepting any deal before it has been assessed by your lawyer.
Your Department Of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Hearing
All drivers arrested for a DUI must request a hearing with the DMV within 10 days of their arrest. The DMV can and will automatically suspend your license if you do not request this hearing, so get professional help on your side now.
Your Legal Defense
There are legal defenses that work to resolve DUI charges in Hawaiian Gardens. The professionals at the Simmrin Law Group can work to weaken the evidence against you. They may even be able to show that you were illegally stopped by a law enforcement officer.
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Get Help From A Hawaiian Gardens DUI Attorney Today
Take on DUI charges in Hawaiian Gardens now by reaching out to the Simmrin Law Group. We understand how to help clients in your situation. You can start working on a strong defense now by completing our online contact form or calling our office.
Get a FREE consultation about your legal options from our DUI lawyers in Hawaiian Gardens.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form