Advocate, Coordinator & Counselor
At The Blalock Law Firm, PC, our Walnut Creek DUI lawyer, will never tell you to shut up, get behind
us, and do as we say. Instead, we seek your input at every fork in the
road and as we develop a successful strategy to defend your case. We are
your advocates and continually work to ensure that this is just a tiny
speed bump in your life and not a brick wall that you will hit.
We like to say that we try honey before vinegar, which often yields the
best results in our currently overburdened adversarial criminal justice
system. In addition, we only handle DUI cases, giving you the focused
solutions you need when you are facing such a complex matter.
In every case we take on, we will always:
- Take the time and energy to discover all the relevant facts
- Evaluate the strength and weaknesses of the evidence
- Analyze the best judge and district attorney to obtain the best resolution
- Reduce anxiety throughout the process of defending the case against the
government
- Obtain excellent results in reducing our client’s legal exposure
DUI Laws & Penalties in California
If your blood alcohol content (BAC) is at least .08 percent while operating
a vehicle, you could be charged with driving under the influence in California.
However, commercial driver’s license holders with a minimum BAC
of .04 percent and
underage drivers (under 21 years old) with a BAC of at least .01 percent can face DUI charges.
If you are convicted of DUI, you face a wide range of criminal penalties,
including fines worth thousands of dollars and even a jail or prison sentence.
In addition, your driver’s license is subject to suspension.
The following is a breakdown of the DUI penalties in California:
-
First DUI – Punishable by a maximum jail sentence of six months, a fine of
up to $1,000, and driver’s license suspension for six months.
-
Second DUI – Punishable by a jail term of up to one year, a maximum fine of
$1,000, and driver’s license suspension for two years.
-
Third DUI – Punishable by a jail sentence of up to one year or imprisonment
for up to 16 months, a fine of no more than $1,000, and driver’s
license suspension for three years.
-
Fourth or subsequent DUI – Punishable by imprisonment for up to three years, a maximum fine
of $1,000, and driver’s license revocation for four years.
If a first-time DUI involves an injury, the charge can either be a misdemeanor
or a felony. A misdemeanor conviction carries a jail sentence of up to
one year, a maximum fine of $5,000, and a driver’s license suspension
for three years, while a felony conviction can result in a prison term
of up to four years and a fine not exceeding $5,000
If a first DUI offense involves a death, you could be charged with gross
vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. The offense can lead to a prison
sentence of up to 10 years and a maximum fine of $10,000.
What Happens to My License After a DUI Arrest?
Whether your BAC was .08 percent or you refused to take a chemical test
after being arrested for a DUI, your
driver’s license will be automatically suspended. You will then have 10 days to
request a hearing and appeal the suspension by the DMV.
If you win your hearing, your driving privileges will be reinstated. If
your suspension is upheld, you can still apply for a “restricted
license.”
There are two restricted license options: installing an ignition interlock
device (IID) in your vehicle for four months or entering the employment/treatment
program for five months. The IID program allows you to drive to any place
at any time, while the other option enables you to drive to, from, and
during employment, as well as to and from your DUI program.
Keep in mind, this driver’s license suspension period is separate
from the license suspension handed down by the criminal court after conviction.
However, there are also restricted license options available.
Understanding the Consequences of a DUI Conviction
Being charged with a DUI can have serious consequences that extend beyond
legal penalties. It is important to understand the potential impact on
your life and future before making any decisions. At The Blalock Law Firm,
PC, our experienced Walnut Creek DUI attorney can guide you through the
process and help you navigate the complex legal system.
Here are some potential consequences of a DUI conviction:
- License suspension or revocation
- Increased insurance premiums
- Mandatory alcohol education programs
- Installation of an ignition interlock device
- Difficulty obtaining employment
- Negative impact on professional licenses
- Possible jail time
Our dedicated team will work tirelessly to build a strong defense strategy
tailored to your specific case. We will advocate for your rights, coordinate
with experts, and provide you with the guidance and support you need throughout
the process.
Don't face the consequences of a DUI conviction alone. Contact our Walnut
Creek DUI attorney today to schedule a consultation and start building
your defense.
Commonly Asked Questions
What is the process of defending myself against a DUI charge?
If charged with a DUI, it is important to seek legal counsel as soon as
possible. Your lawyer will be able to review all aspects of your case
and determine which strategies are best suited for your defense.
Are there any risks associated with representing myself in court on a DUI charge?
Defending yourself against any criminal charge carries great risk. It is
important that you understand all aspects of the law and procedures involved
in order to avoid mistakes that could result in serious consequences.
What should I expect after being charged with a DUI offense?
The first step after being charged with a DUI offense would be attending
an arraignment hearing where you enter your plea. Depending on the outcome
of this hearing and other factors such as prior convictions or blood alcohol
levels, additional hearings may follow such as pretrial conferences or
DMV hearings.
Hire Our Walnut Creek DUI Attorney Today!
Get our Walnut Creek DUI lawyer's experience, insights, and advocacy on
your side with an
affordable, flat-rate fee or payment plan that fits your budget and a free letter to the DMV within the vital 10-day
window. Let The Blalock Law Firm, PC protect your license and your future.
Are you facing a DUI charge? Contact The Blalock Law Firm, PC today at
(925) 259-3270 or
online to schedule a meeting with our Walnut Creek DUI lawyer.
APS/ License Suspension