Defend Your Freedom And Future After A Drunk Driving Arrest

A first-time or repeat arrest with charges of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI) can have harsh consequences.

Most DUI cases start with a traffic stop. If a police officer determines that you are likely under the influence of alcohol or drugs, he or she may charge you with a crime and seize your driver’s license. Within 10 days, you may request a hearing before the Department of Motor Vehicles. If all goes well at the hearing, your driving privileges may be restored at least until your criminal case is resolved.

Potential defense strategies in your DUI case include:

  • Challenging the police officer’s decision to stop you
  • Challenging the validity of the Breathalyzer machine used to measure blood alcohol content (BAC)
  • Persuading a prosecutor or judge to reduce your charges and penalties because of your character and commitment to prevent repeat DUI charges

Summary Of Penalties And Hardships With DUI Convictions

A DUI conviction may bring tough penalties such as:

  • Fines and fees, typically ranging from $390 to $1000 and more
  • A third-time offense may result in fines as high as $18,000
  • Jail time up to 48 hours for a first offense, 96 hours to a year for a second offense and 120 days to a year for a third offense
  • Instead of or in addition to jail time: probation up to three to five years for a first offense and up to 10 years for a repeat offense
  • Driver’s license suspension, often six months for a first offense, two years for a second offense and three years for a third offense
  • Mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device for a repeat offense
  • “DUI school” in some cases, lasting up to a year
  • In addition, auto insurance rates typically go up after a first-time or subsequent DUI conviction
  • Forfeiture of one’s automobile after some third or higher number of offenses

All in all, most people with DUI convictions experience hardships such as:

  • Suspended or revoked driving privileges, making it challenging to go to work or school as usual
  • Ineligibility for many careers
  • A criminal record that may make it very difficult to get any job
  • High fines
  • Harm to one’s reputation
  • Significantly higher auto insurance rates for years

The One And Only Path Forward: An Aggressive Defense

Your freedom and future are on the line after a DUI arrest. To maximize your chances of a favorable outcome, you should contact a defense attorney as soon as possible. Griswold LaSalle Cobb Dowd & Gin LLP has been defending people charged with crimes in the San Joaquin Valley since 1945. Our attorneys’ combined 200 years of experience can benefit your criminal defense case.

Protect your driving privileges, your freedom and your record. Reach us at 559-584-6656 or email us through this website for a prompt response.

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