Accusations of driving under the influence (DUI) can lead to a serious legal battle that should be addressed immediately. The consequences for a DUI conviction can include:
- Jail Time
- High Fines
- Driver’s License Suspension
Fighting back against a DUI accusation requires a solid understanding of the legal system in California. The Simmrin Law Group has years of experience helping clients in your shoes. Our team of DUI lawyers in Irvine can take on your case to ensure you have a solid defense before it’s too late.
Blood Alcohol Content and DUIs in Irvine
The state uses your blood alcohol content (BAC) to determine whether or not you should be charged with a DUI. According to the legal codes in California, you are only legally allowed to operate a motor vehicle if your BAC is below:
- .08% for Non-Commercial Drivers over 21
- .04% for Commercial Drivers over 21
- .01% for Drivers under 21
Your BAC can be measured through the use of chemical tests, including the breathalyzer. A police officer may attempt to administer these tests if you are pulled over or involved in a motor vehicle accident. Note that you are legally allowed to decline these tests in some circumstances. However, you MUST complete any test if you are:
- Legally Arrested
- Under 21
- On DUI Probation
Failure to complete a legally required test can lead to the suspension of your license and other penalties.
Punishments for DUI Convictions in Irvine
The court system in Irvine punishes DUIs very harshly. Each new offense will result in steeper penalties that can quickly become overwhelming. A criminal defense lawyer in Irvine can build your defense so you are not subjected to:
DUI Fines
- 1st Offense: Up to $2,000
- 2nd Offense: Up to $2,500
- 3rd Offense: Up to $3,000
DUI Jail Time
- 1st Offense: Up to 6 Months
- 2nd Offense: Up to 1 Year
- 3rd Offense: Up to 1 Year
DUI License Suspension
- 1st Offense: Up to 1 Year
- 2nd Offense: Up to 2 Years
- 3rd Offense: Up to 3 Years
You can also be forced to complete an alcohol treatment program for each DUI conviction. The sooner you get professional help on your side, the better your odds of winning your case will be.
DUI Lawyers Can Help with Other Traffic Violations
Traffic Infractions in Irvine
DUIs are some of the most serious charges you could face while operating a motor vehicle, but they are not alone. You can also be charged for minor traffic infractions, such as:
- Speeding
- Running Stop Signs
- Changing Lanes Illegally
You may be given a ticket for a traffic infraction. Police officers and red-light cameras are both legally allowed to issue tickets in the Irvine area. Traffic infractions generally result in small fines. You will also have 1 point added to your license if you commit traffic infractions.
Note that your license can be suspended if you accrue too many points on your license in a given amount of time. This means that you could end up losing your license for nothing more than simple traffic infractions.
A DUI lawyer can take on your case if you’re in danger of losing your license. We can stand up for you in any traffic case so you can get on with your life.
Criminal Traffic Violations in Irvine
More serious traffic violations may be treated as misdemeanors or felonies. For example, you could be charged with reckless driving for endangering the safety of others while operating a motor vehicle. Other examples of criminal traffic violations include:
- Driving on a Suspended License
- Driving on a Revoked License
- Vehicular Manslaughter
You can also face criminal charges for involvement with a hit and run in Irvine. Criminal traffic violations lead to higher fines, time in jail or prison, and the addition of 2 points to your license.
A professional DUI lawyer can improve your odds of beating a serious traffic violation charge. Make sure you have a skilled legal team on your side to build your defense.
Get the Defense You Deserve with a DUI Lawyer in Irvine
At the Simmrin Law Group, we believe that all of our clients deserve a fierce defense. We are committed to building your case, whether you’ve been accused of a DUI or another traffic violation. Let us start working on your defense today by calling (310) 997-4688 or completing our online contact form.
Start working to protect your future right now with a FREE consultation.