HEMET DUI ATTORNEY

A DUI is called the “everyman’s crime,” since it can happen to anyone at any time. Even a couple of drinks at a restaurant can put your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level at 0.08%, the point where you are presumed intoxicated and it is unlawful to drive. If you were arrested and face a DUI charge, call a Hemet DUI attorney at (888) 754-9860.

A DUI is not a minor offense. You face certain jail time in most cases, loss of your driver’s license, substantial fines, required attendance at DUI class and a significant increase in insurance. Also, you have only 10 days from your arrest to challenge the suspension of your license at a DMV hearing.

For some people, A DUI means loss of a job and other severe implications on your life and lifestyle. You need the services of a Hemet DUI attorney to protect your rights and offer you the best possible defense.

Advantages of a Hemet DUI Attorney

Not all DUI attorneys are adept litigators or negotiators. You expect a professional and you get one with a Hemet DUI attorney. A Hemet DUI attorney can provide you:

• 1. A thorough investigation of the facts
• 2. Detailed knowledge of proper police procedures and conduct
• 3. Comprehensive knowledge of the breathalyzer and blood test procedures
• 4. Current knowledge of the DUI laws and available defenses
• 5. Negotiating skills
• 6. A seasoned trial attorney

No attorney can guarantee how your case will end but a Hemet DUI attorney can assure you that you will receive the professional representation you need.

The DUI Process

There are several stages of a DUI:

• DMV hearing. You are entitled to a hearing before the DMV regarding suspension of your license if you request one in time. Your Hemet DUI attorney can challenge probable cause of your stop and arrest and if your BAC was .08%.
• This brief appearance can occur within 2 weeks of your arrest. Your Hemet DUI attorney will appear with you to enter a not guilty plea in most cases.
• Before trial, your Hemet DUI lawyer can make motions to contest probable cause, suppress evidence and others. A conference is also scheduled to negotiate a plea if possible.
• If no plea agreement is reached, your Hemet DUI lawyer will present a solid defense of your case.

Penalties for a DUI

DUI sentences vary depending on whether you have prior DUI convictions or if there were aggravating circumstances such as an injury or fatal accident, your BAC was elevated or you had a minor as a passenger among others that a Hemet DUI lawyer can explain.

Otherwise, these penalties typically are imposed:

First DUI or DWI

The usual penalties for a first DUI or DWI are:

1. Jail. 48 hours in jail and up to 6-months; 3-years of probation
2. Suspension of license. Loss of driving privileges for 4 to 10-months though you may be eligible for a restricted license; if BAC testing was refused, the suspension is one year
3. Fines: $390 with costs over $1,800
4. DUI classes: 3-months
5. Insurance and installation: Secure SR-1 insurance and possibly install an interlock ignition system

Second DUI or DWI

Penalties for a second DUI or DWI within 10 years of the first include:

1. Jail. 96 hours and up to one year in county jail and 3-5 years probation
2. Suspension of license. 2 year suspension with eligibility for restricted license unless testing was refused.
3. Fines: $390 to $1000 but over $10,000 in costs
4. DUI Classe 18 to 30-months
5. Installation and insurance. SR-1 insurance and Interlock ignition system

Third DUI or DWI

Conviction of a third DUI or DWI in 10 years may include:

1. Jail. 120 days to one year in county jail and 3-5 years probation
2. Suspension of license. 3 years with restricted license after 12-months
3. Fines: $390 to $1000 and other costs up to $15,000
4. DUI classes. 30-months
5. Installation and insurance. SR-1 insurance and interlock system

Fourth DUI or DWI

A fourth DWI or DWI could be negotiated to a misdemeanor.by your Gardena DUI lawyer. If a felony, you face:

1. Jail. 16 months, 2 or 3 years in jail and formal probation for up to 5 years
2. Suspension of license: 4 years
3. Fines: Up to $5000 with associated costs of up to $18,000
4. Habitual traffic offender status. 3 years
5. Mandatory DUI classes. 30-months
6. Installation and insurance. SR-1 insurance and interlock system

Commercial DUI or DWI

Commercial drivers can be convicted of a commercial DUI or DWI if their BAC is 0.04% so that their need for a Gardena DUI lawyer is imperative.

Penalties include:

1. Jail. Same as for a motorist with a Class C license for first or multiple DUI or DWI offenses
2. Driver’s license suspension.

• Loss of commercial driver’s license for one year, regardless of the vehicle you were driving
• Life-time suspension for a second conviction
• Your Class C license is also affected

3. Fines. From $390 to $1000
4. DUI Classes. Same as for other offenders
5. Insurance and installation. Possible securing of SR-1 insurance and installation of an interlock system

Call a Hemet DUI Lawyer

If you were arrested for a DUI, call a Hemet DUI lawyer today at (888) 754-9860.