San Bernardino DUI Lawyer

San Bernardino DUI Attorney

In California, DUI charges occur when a driver operates a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you are facing DUI charges (also called DWI charges), you need a San Bernardino DUI lawyer.

The state has strict laws concerning DUI offenses, and penalties can be severe, particularly for repeat offenders or cases involving aggravating factors, like accidents, or injuries. A DWI attorney from My SoCal Lawyers is prepared to develop a strong defense strategy for you and advocate for your rights.

Penalties for DUI Convictions in California

The penalties for a DUI conviction in California vary, depending on several factors, including whether it’s a first offense, whether anyone was injured, and whether there was property damage. Generally, DUI penalties include fines, jail time, license suspension, and the requirement to attend DUI education programs.

• First Offense: A first-time DUI offense can result in fines, a license suspension, and time in jail. Additionally, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) on your vehicle.
• Second Offense: For a second DUI offense, the penalties increase, including greater fines, a longer license suspension, and a more extensive jail sentence.
• Third and Subsequent Offenses: Multiple DUI offenses carry even more severe consequences, including longer license suspensions, mandatory IID installation, and extended jail time.
• DUI With Injury: If you were involved in an accident that caused injuries while driving under the influence, you may face additional penalties, including felony charges, longer prison sentences, and increased fines.

Why You Need a DUI Lawyer

Facing a DUI charge without legal representation can be overwhelming and lead to unnecessary consequences. Our DWI attorneys can guide you through the complex legal process, protect your rights, and work to reduce—or even dismiss—the charges against you.

We can:

• Utilize our legal knowledge. DUI/DWI laws are complex, and our attorneys understand the intricacies of California’s legal system, the court process, and the potential defenses available to you.
• Challenge evidence. A DUI/DWI case often relies on evidence, like breathalyzer results, field sobriety tests, and officer testimony. Our attorneys can challenge the accuracy and validity of this evidence, especially if there were errors in testing or procedural violations during your arrest.
• Minimize penalties. If the evidence against you is strong, we can negotiate for reduced charges or penalties.
• Protect your license. One of the immediate consequences of a DUI/DWI charge is the suspension of your driver’s license. We can help you request a DMV hearing to contest the suspension and work to protect your driving privileges.

Common Defenses in DUI Cases

Every DUI case is unique, but My SoCal Lawyers can analyze the specific details of your case and determine which defense strategies are most appropriate.

Improper Traffic Stop

Law enforcement must have a reasonable suspicion to pull you over for a traffic stop. If the officer did not have a valid reason for stopping your vehicle, any evidence gathered during the stop—like breathalyzer or field sobriety test results—may be inadmissible in court.

Inaccurate Breathalyzer Results

Breathalyzer machines are not infallible. They must be properly calibrated and maintained, and the officer administering the test must follow strict protocols. If there were any errors in the administration of the test or the machine’s calibration, we could challenge the accuracy of the BAC results.

Faulty Field Sobriety Tests

Field sobriety tests—like walking in a straight line or standing on one leg—are often used to assess impairment. However, these tests can be unreliable and influenced by factors such as fatigue, medical conditions, or uneven road surfaces. We can challenge the validity of the field sobriety tests administered in your San Bernardino case.

Medical Conditions or Medications

Certain medical conditions—like acid reflux or diabetes—can affect the results of a breathalyzer test. Additionally, some prescription medications may cause symptoms that mimic intoxication.

The DUI Court Process

The DUI court process typically involves several stages.

1. Arraignment: The first court appearance after your arrest is the arraignment, where you will be formally charged with DUI.
2. Pretrial Motions and Negotiations: After the arraignment, our DWI attorneys can file pretrial motions to challenge evidence or dismiss the case.
3. Trial: If your case goes to trial, we can present your defense, cross-examine witnesses, and challenge the prosecution’s evidence. A DUI trial can be complicated.
4. Sentencing: If you are convicted of DUI, the court will impose a sentence, which may include jail time, fines, license suspension, and DUI education programs. We can advocate for a more lenient sentence, particularly if it is a first offense.

DMV Hearing and License Suspension

In addition to the criminal court process, a DUI charge in California involves a separate process with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). After a DUI arrest, you have only ten days to request a DMV hearing to contest the suspension of your driver’s license. Failure to request this hearing within the ten-day window will result in an automatic suspension.

My SoCal Lawyers can represent you at the DMV hearing and argue against the suspension of your license. This hearing is separate from the criminal court case, but it is essential to protecting your driving privileges.

The Importance of Acting Quickly

When you are arrested for DUI, time is of the essence. You have a limited window to request a DMV hearing and begin building your defense for the criminal charges. Consulting our DUI/DWI attorneys as soon as possible can give you the greatest chance of protecting your rights and minimizing the consequences of a DUI.

A DUI arrest can have far-reaching consequences, but working with My SoCal Lawyers can help you when navigating the legal process and defending your rights. From challenging the evidence to negotiating reduced penalties, we can work to achieve the most beneficial outcome for your case.

If you are facing DUI charges, don’t wait to seek legal representation. Take action today to protect your future and fight for your rights in court. Our team can review your case and tailor a defense that meets the needs of your situation.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation.