Convictions for driving under the influence (DUI) in Laguna Niguel can be incredibly harsh. A driver accused of a DUI could face:
- Incredibly high fines
- Months or years of jail time
- A lengthy driver’s license suspension
Fortunately, you do not have to try to resolve a DUI accusation on your own. You can get professional help right away by contacting the Simmrin Law Group. Let our DUI lawyers in Laguna Niguel start constructing your defense today.
Types of DUIs in Laguna Niguel
Most drivers in California are aware that they can be charged with a DUI if they operate a vehicle while their blood alcohol content (BAC) exceeds the legal limits. In fact, the state requires that drivers:
- Over 21 keep their BAC below 0.08%
- Under 21 keep their BAC below 0.01%
- Who operate commercial vehicles keep their BAC below 0.04%
However, you can also be charged with a DUI for getting behind the wheel after using drugs. The use of both illicit chemical substances and some prescription medications can result in DUI charges in Laguna Niguel.
Make sure you’re prepared to take on alcohol or drug-related DUI charges by working with a criminal defense lawyer in Laguna Beach today.
For a free legal consultation with a dui lawyer serving Laguna Niguel, call (310) 896-2723
Penalties for DUI Convictions in Laguna Niguel
The court system in Laguna Niguel can prosecute DUIs as either misdemeanors or felonies. First-time charges are typically handled as misdemeanors, unless someone was hurt by the actions of a driver under the influence.
However, even the results of a misdemeanor conviction can be very severe. For example, a first-time conviction can result in:
- Fines of up to $2,000
- Jail time of up to six months
- License suspension of up to one year
These penalties increase each time you are convicted of a DUI, even if you are still facing misdemeanor charges. This occurs because DUIs are priorable in California. Past convictions remain on your record and count against you each time you are arrested.
Laguna Niguel DUI Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
Laguna Niguel DUIs and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
You can face criminal charges if you are arrested for a DUI in Laguna Niguel. You will also need to set up a hearing with the DMV following your arrest. You have 10 days to request this hearing. If you do not request a hearing the DMV can suspend your driver’s license automatically.
A DMV official will handle this hearing, which focuses on whether or not your license should be suspended. A traffic violations lawyer in Laguna Niguel can support you during this hearing, increasing the odds that you will be able to preserve your driving privileges.
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DUIs and Ignition Interlock Devices (IID) in Laguna Niguel
You should be aware that you may be able to retain your driving privileges after a DUI conviction in some cases. The state of California allows many drivers to continue operating their vehicles if they agree to install an IID.
An IID is a type of breathalyzer. You must breathe into this device in order to start your car. If it finds that your BAC is above the legal limit, your vehicle will not start.
Your lawyer can help you determine if accepting an IID is the right choice for you after a DUI arrest. Note that the state will require you to place IIDs in all vehicles registered in your name. You will have to pay installation and upkeep costs on your IID.
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Defenses to DUI Charges in Laguna Niguel
You don’t have to just accept a DUI conviction in Laguna Niguel. You can get professional help on your side today by reaching out to the Simmrin Law Group. Contact us for assistance:
- During interviews with prosecutors
- Assessing any plea bargains you are offered
- Getting your charges reduced or dismissed
- Handling your DMV hearing
- Working on a strong defense
We can thoroughly investigate all of the facts surrounding your case. We may be able to show that:
- You were stopped by a law enforcement officer without cause
- You were not operating a vehicle while inebriated
- The results of BAC tests were not correct
Let us go over all of your legal options following a DUI arrest in Laguna Niguel right now. Getting fast help can improve your odds of successfully resolving DUI charges in California.
Get Support from a Laguna Niguel DUI Lawyer
The Simmrin Law Group can help you build a defense to DUI charges in Laguna Niguel. Get the personalized assistance you need by reaching out to us today. You can take charge of your future by calling (310) 896-2723 or filling out our online contact form.
Get a FREE case evaluation from our DUI lawyers in Laguna Niguel right away.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form