You can face serious consequences if you are convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) in Santa Monica. A single conviction for DUI can result in the suspension of your license. You can also face high fines, probation, and even jail time.
The Santa Monica DUI lawyers at Simmrin Law Group understand the strategies that can help you in your legal battle. We will seek the ideal legal outcome for you.
Why Should I Hire a Lawyer for my DUI Case in Santa Monica?
Everyone facing a DUI charge has a right to proceed without a lawyer. Those who have been through the legal process, though, may advise you to accept a lawyer’s help. DUI cases may generally:
- Pose great risks, including financial expenses, loss of your reputation, loss of your job, and even loss of your freedom
- Be complex
- Involve highly technical aspects, including but not limited to chemical testing
Nevertheless, your DUI case may be winnable. However, prosecutors in your case may put up a formidable fight and be intent on convicting you. Simmrin Law Group will put forth just as strong a fight—on your behalf. We will handle every aspect of your defense. From gathering evidence to interviewing witnesses, negotiating a plea bargain, or arguing your case at trial, our team will do it all for you.
Life goes on after a DUI arrest. You may still have work, personal obligations, and family to tend to. We will handle the legal process and fight for victory while you focus on your daily duties.
Facing a DUI charge in Santa Monica? You’re not alone. The journey through the legal system can be daunting, especially when your freedom, reputation, and financial stability are at stake. Our experienced DUI lawyers at Simmrin Law Group are here to navigate this challenging path with you.
We understand what’s on the line. With our comprehensive knowledge and personalized approach, we aim to provide not just legal representation but a supportive partnership to guide you through each step of the legal process towards the best possible outcome.
For a free legal consultation with a dui lawyer serving Santa Monica, call (310) 896-2723
Fight DUI and Traffic Violation Charges in Santa Monica
A DUI charge in Santa Monica can be incredibly hard to deal with on your own. One false move could cost you your license and even your freedom. You may also face other traffic charges leading to fines and incarceration. Driving mistakes can qualify as traffic infractions, misdemeanors, or felonies.
Regardless of the specific traffic violation charges you’re facing, you could end up with points on your license. California will suspend your license if you accumulate:
- 4 points on your license in 1 year.
- 6 points on your license in 2 years.
- 8 points on your license in 3 years.
Protect your ability to drive by connecting with our Santa Monica criminal defense lawyer as soon as you can. The faster you get to work on your case, the better your odds may be in the courtroom.
Santa Monica DUI Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
DUI Charges in Santa Monica, CA
California takes drunk driving seriously. Anyone over 21 can be charged with a DUI if their blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08% or greater. The law is even stricter for individuals under 21, who can face DUI charges if their BAC is only 0.01%.
A DUI charge can result in the immediate suspension of your license. Even a first-time offense can cause you to lose your license for 4 months, which can lead to a slew of other negative repercussions in your life. You might also face fines and jail time if you are convicted of a DUI.
Be aware that you cannot avoid a DUI conviction by refusing to take a chemical test if you are pulled over. In fact, refusing to submit to a chemical test for your BAC can result in the suspension of your license for one year. This refusal also comes with a fine of $125.
Working with a DUI lawyer who understands the Santa Monica court system can be reassuring. The DUI defense lawyers at Simmrin Law Group have relevant experience and can guide you through the stressful court process.
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Santa Monica’s Traffic Infractions
You are most likely familiar with traffic infractions, which are not considered criminal offenses though they still come with serious penalties. Traffic infractions are minor offenses, usually punished through a ticket written by a law enforcement officer. Common examples of traffic infractions include:
- Speeding
- Running a stop sign
- Driving without insurance
- Violating the rules of a carpool lane
Red light cameras can also monitor traffic infractions in the Santa Monica area. You can be recorded by a red-light camera if you fail to properly obey a traffic signal. The legal system treats any ticket you receive from a traffic camera seriously.
A traffic infraction may result in one or more points on your license. You may have to pay a fine of up to $450 if found guilty of most infractions. In some cases, the court will also impound your car for a traffic infraction.
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Driving on a Suspended License in California
You may be charged with a misdemeanor for more serious traffic violations in Santa Monica. A first-time misdemeanor traffic violation generally results in two points being added to your license.
Driving on a suspended or revoked license is a common example of a misdemeanor traffic violation. You can face this charge if you drive your car while you’re aware your license is either revoked or suspended.
The charges for driving while your license is revoked or suspended vary depending on your situation, but the repercussions are generally severe. You could face fines of $1,000 and 6 months of jail time if you are convicted.
Reckless Driving Charges in Santa Monica
The state of California also considers reckless driving a misdemeanor. You may face a charge of reckless driving if you drive in a way that willfully disregards the safety of others. Reckless driving may include:
- Speeding excessively
- Driving on a sidewalk
- Driving the wrong way
- Passing illegally
- Street racing
As with other misdemeanors, you will generally receive two points on your license if you are convicted of reckless driving. You might spend 90 days in jail, and you may have to pay fines of up to $1,000.
Dealing with misdemeanor charges for a traffic violation can be incredibly difficult. Get help from our criminal defense lawyer serving Los Angeles County who understands how the legal system works.
Simmrin Law Group Specializes in DUI Cases —We Can Handle Yours in Santa Monica
Considering the stakes that come with a DUI case, you may want an attorney who has successfully defended those like yourself. Michael Simmrin has taken more than 100 cases to trial and has helped many clients overcome a DUI charge.
Simmrin Law Group’s experience with DUI cases in Santa Monica means:
- Our attorneys will be prepared for all developments in your case
- We will have a clear strategy and expectation for how to resolve your case
- We have ample experience negotiating with prosecutors and will fight for a fair deal (if appropriate in your case)
- We have resolved DUI cases both through plea negotiations and at trial, and are comfortable with either path
- We know relevant laws, procedures, and rules for DUI cases in Santa Monica
Simmrin Law Group places great importance on client service. As our client, you will feel like your case is the priority. We treat each client like family, providing active communication, compassion, and other hallmarks of capable legal service.
Former Clients Praise Simmrin Law Group
We believe that clients have the clearest view of a law firm. Former clients of Simmrin Law Group have experienced our care and tenacity firsthand:
- “My case was pretty complex considering my priors, however I was reassured the whole time everything was going to work out and I got the best results as promised. The charge was dismissed and my probation was reinstated back to normal with no extra time or stricter terms. I wholeheartedly recommend Simmrin Law Group .” – Joi, former client
- “Simmrin Law Group far exceeded my expectations for service and delivered an outstanding outcome for my case. Michael navigated the system with a level of skill and familiarity which inspired true confidence.” – Brendan, former client
Simmrin Law Group is known for solving even the toughest legal challenges so you can sleep better at night. While your DUI case in Santa Monica will undoubtedly pose challenges, we’re determined to overcome them so you can move forward with your life.
Comprehensive DUI Defense Strategy
Understand the multifaceted approach to DUI defense. Our team is adept in all phases, from evidence analysis to courtroom representation.
- Evidence Evaluation Analyzing the evidence is crucial. We meticulously examine police reports, breathalyzers, and blood test results to identify inaccuracies or procedural errors.
- Legal Representation In court, our lawyers leverage their expertise to defend your rights, arguing against the prosecution’s case with a tailor-made defense strategy.
Understanding California DUI Laws Gain insights into California’s strict DUI regulations and how they impact your case.
- Legal Thresholds and Penalties Learn about BAC limits, legal ramifications for different offender categories, and potential penalties, including license suspension and fines.
- Navigating DUI Process Understanding California’s legal process, from arraignment to potential outcomes, empowers you to make informed decisions.
Your Rights During a DUI Stop Know your rights if stopped for suspected DUI, a crucial aspect of self-protection.
- Legal Obligations and Rights Understand your obligations, like chemical testing, and rights, such as remaining silent and seeking legal counsel immediately.
- Handling Police Interactions Practical tips on managing police interactions during a DUI stop to safeguard your legal rights.
Reducing the Impact of DUI Charges Strategies to mitigate the impact of DUI charges on your life.
- Negotiation and Plea Bargaining Explore how plea bargains can potentially reduce penalties and the role of skilled negotiation in this process.
- License Reinstatement Steps to regain driving privileges post-conviction, including attending DUI school and fulfilling legal requirements.
Local Resources in Santa Monica, CA
Access essential local resources in Santa Monica for legal and emergency needs.
- Santa Monica Courthouse: 1725 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401. General Information: (310) 255-1840
- Police and Fire Departments: Santa Monica Police Department, 333 Olympic Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401, Phone: (310) 458-8474; Santa Monica Fire Department, Station 1: 1444 7th St, Santa Monica, CA 90401, Phone: 310-393-8461
- Hospitals: Providence Saint John’s Health Center, 2121 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90404, Phone: 310-829-5511; UCLA Santa Monica Medical Center, 1250 16th St, Santa Monica, CA 90404
- Auto Body Shops: M’s Body Shop, Venice, CA (Highly rated local body shop for car repairs post-accident)
A Santa Monica DUI Lawyer from Our Firm Can Help You
Fighting a traffic violation charge can be overwhelming. A conviction for a DUI or another violation can cost you your license, hard-earned money and freedom. Get help from the DUI lawyers at Simmrin Law Group today.
Call Simmrin Law Group today for a free consultation or fill out our form to get started with your legal defense.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form