Victorville DUI Lawyer

Experienced Defense Against DUI Charges in San Bernardino County

When facing DUI charges in California, you need a dedicated and experienced legal advocate. At The Law Office of Parag Shah, we are committed to providing top-notch legal representation to individuals in Victorville and throughout California who face DUI charges. Our team of skilled attorneys is well-versed in California DUI laws and is here to guide you through the legal process with precision and dedication.

Call the Law Office of Parag Shah today at (760) 227-7625 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our DUI attorney in Victorville! 

Understanding California DUI Laws

California has some of the strictest DUI laws in the nation, and being charged with driving under the influence can have serious consequences. In California, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher for adults over 21. For individuals under 21, a BAC of 0.01% or higher can result in DUI charges.

It's important to note that DUI laws also apply to drug use, whether illegal narcotics or prescription medications. If you are found to be impaired by any substance that affects your ability to drive safely, you can be charged with a DUI in California.

What to Expect When Facing DUI Charges in California

According to California's state laws, a DUI charge is technically counted as a misdemeanor. However, unlike other misdemeanors, DUIs carry particularly high penalties. This does not just include driving under the influence of alcohol and receiving any offense of being impaired for any substance, including recreational or non-prescribed drugs.

When you have been accused of this crime, you can expect certain consequences to take place, including:

• You will be forced to have your license suspended for a full 30 days after you have been charged unless you immediately arrange a hearing with the DMV and your plea proves successful.
• You will then be entered into an arraignment, and it is at this criminal process you can enter a plea, which may or may not progress to a trial.
• With the aid of a powerful attorney, you might be able to avoid a trial, but if you go to a trial, a jury will decide your outcome.

Penalties for DUI Convictions in California

California takes DUI offenses seriously, and the penalties for a conviction can be severe. The consequences you may face can vary depending on factors such as your prior criminal history, the circumstances of your arrest, and your BAC at the time of arrest. Here are some common penalties for DUI convictions in California:

• Fines: DUI convictions often come with hefty fines ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
• License Suspension: Your driver's license may be suspended, making it challenging to commute to work, school, or other essential activities.
• Probation: You may be on probation, including mandatory alcohol education programs and community service.
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID): In some cases, you may be required to install an IID in your vehicle, which measures your BAC before allowing you to start the engine.
• Jail Time: DUI convictions can lead to incarceration, with sentences ranging from a few days to several years, depending on the circumstances.
• Increased Insurance Rates: A DUI conviction can result in significantly higher insurance premiums, making it costly to maintain coverage.
• Criminal Record: A DUI conviction can result in a permanent criminal record, affecting future employment opportunities and housing prospects.

Is a DUI a Felony in CA?

In California, DUI offenses can be charged as either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on various factors. Generally, a first or second DUI offense is considered a misdemeanor. However, if you have prior DUI convictions on your record or if your actions resulted in injury or death, you may face felony charges.

Felony DUI charges in California can carry more severe penalties, including longer jail sentences and the potential for a strike on your criminal record. If you're facing felony DUI charges, seeking legal representation immediately to protect your rights and explore potential defenses is crucial.

Your Local DUI Defense Resource in Victorville, CA

When you find yourself facing DUI charges in Victorville, it's essential to understand the local landscape and the resources available to you. The city, part of San Bernardino County, is served by various local government entities, including the Victorville Police Department and the San Bernardino County District Attorney's Office, which play significant roles in the enforcement and prosecution of DUI laws. Navigating the legal system can be daunting, especially when you consider the potential consequences of a DUI charge, such as license suspension and hefty fines.

Residents of Victorville often express concerns about the impact of a DUI on their daily lives, particularly regarding transportation and employment. With public transportation options being limited in the High Desert region, losing your driving privileges can create significant challenges. Additionally, the stress of potential jail time and increased insurance rates can weigh heavily on individuals and their families. Understanding these local pain points, we are here to provide you with the support and guidance you need to navigate this difficult time.

Our team is familiar with the local courts and the specific challenges that residents of Victorville face. We recognize that each case is unique, and we are committed to helping you explore all available options to mitigate the impact of a DUI charge. Whether it's negotiating with prosecutors or preparing for a hearing with the DMV, we are dedicated to protecting your rights and working towards the best possible outcome for your situation.

Don't let a DUI charge define your future. Reach out to us today to discuss your case and learn how we can assist you in overcoming the challenges ahead.