4 Immediate Action Steps You Should Take After a DUI Charge in California

Posted on: September 14th, 2023 by Dod Law

DUI Charges in California

When you’re stopped for driving under the influence, whether it’s your first time or not, the laws governing DUIs can be confusing. However, you should be aware of immediate action steps you should take when stopped for a DUI and what comes after. Some steps you’ll have to take may be the difference between helping and hurting your case.   Learn more about the 4 action steps you should take for DUI Charges in California.

But you don’t have to do it alone. An experienced DUI defense attorney from Dod Law, APC can advise you on the laws regarding the specifics of your DUI case and lead you through the process of taking those steps for the best result for your case.

Understand Your Rights When Stopped for DUI

The first – and best step – is to understand your rights when you’re stopped. Did you know you can refuse field sobriety and preliminary alcohol screening tests, like portable breath testing devices, offered before an arrest without consequences? These tests are often inaccurate in determining how much you’ve had to drink before driving, but the results can still be used against you later in court proceedings.

However, you must submit to breath, blood, or urine tests after you’ve been lawfully arrested. You can’t refuse any of these tests because you’ve already agreed to submit to these tests when applying for your California driver’s license. Refusing can lead to increased penalties and the mandatory suspension of your driver’s license.

Seek Legal Representation

There are time-sensitive legal hurdles that have to be navigated when you’re charged with a DUI. If you don’t know what they are or how to negotiate them, you’ll want to seek legal representation immediately. They will advise you on the steps you should take when confronted with a DUI charge and devise a legal strategy that best suits your specific DUI circumstances. Because they’re knowledgeable about California law regarding DUIs, they’ll be able to guide you through the process smoothly to get you the best possible outcome for your case. 

How to Get a DUI Dismissed

Navigate the DMV Hearing

During this hearing, you are entitled to certain rights. You are entitled to be represented by an attorney to increase your chances of a successful outcome. Your attorney can help by preparing for the hearing in the following ways:

• Reviewing the DMV’s evidence regarding your case
• Subpoena records or documents from agencies
• Collecting witnesses
• Preparing your testimony

During the hearing, your attorney can cross-examine opposing witnesses and introduce evidence on your behalf. If there is an adverse outcome of the hearing, you have a right to a department review as well as a judicial appeal.

Prepare for the Possible Consequences of DUI Charges in California

If you’re facing a DUI charge, even for the first time, you might expect the suspension of your license. The suspension may cause hardship when trying to continue to work. However, you may be able to keep your license if the DUI charge is dropped, reduced to a lesser charge, or acquitted. Even if you’re convicted of a DUI, your attorney may be able to shorten the time you are without it or get you a restricted license that allows you to drive to work.

Another consequence that you might have to be prepared for when faced with a DUI charge is the time you might have to set aside for jail time and mandatory rehabilitation programs. Even for first-time offenders, time in jail can be 48 hours or longer. In addition, first-time offenders convicted with a blood alcohol content of 0.20% or higher must complete a state-licensed nine-month, 60-hour alcohol and drug education and counseling program. 

Consult the California DUI Experts at Dod Law, APC

You may need to understand the legal complexities of your DUI case thoroughly, so you should seek the advice of counsel at Dod Law, APC. We understand that not knowing what the future holds when faced with DUI charges can cause anxiety and worry. Having legal representation who can speak on your behalf and guide you through your case can provide some peace of mind.

The attorneys at Dod Law, APC have many years of experience handling DUI cases. When you’ve been charged with a DUI, we will do everything we can to stand up for you in a criminal court of law. If you need help understanding the complexities of your DUI case, call Dod Law, APC at out San Diego office (619) 814-5110 | Vista office 760-814-6025 or complete our contact form today. We have over 19 years of experience helping cases just like yours.