Legal Question in DUI Law in California

I was arrested for driving under the influence what are my options?

To whom this may concern,

I have to go to court for a DUI and I wanted to know what my punishment will be. It was my first offense I have no prior record of any sort, not even a speeding ticket. I was .088 over the legal limit and yes I am 21 years of age. I cannot afford a lawyer, they don't want to talk to me because I have no money. What, if anything can I do to reduce my sentence. I work and go to a local community college, and help out my mother(this means I'm not that bad of a person) The police officers never read me my miranda rights. can somebody please give me some advice about to expect and if you have any good advice about how to handle my situation. Thanks a hell of a lot more than the lawyers I've talked to recently.


Asked on 3/24/06, 9:04 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Richard Wagner Wagner & Zielinski, A Professional Law Corp.

Re: I was arrested for driving under the influence what are my options?

You should be able to get the charges reduced if your BAC was .08. It's too bad you have had lousy experiences with lawyers. But, then again, why would you expect to call a lawyer and not have them ask you about getting paid? I have a lot of info on my website. You should go to court and get a public defender at your first court appearance and don't worry so much about it.

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Answered on 3/26/06, 8:20 pm
Lyle Johnson Bedi and Johnson Attorneys at Law

Re: I was arrested for driving under the influence what are my options?

The fine and sentence will vary some what from county to county etc. However, a conviction for dui will result in a hefty fin, $2,000 plus. Some jail time, and possibly a restriction of your driving privilege, and an alcohol class. You will also be required to provide proof of insurance on your vehicle. Any discussion of your defenses would require a review of the police report and a consultation with you. Next time you are in court tell the judge that you want to be represented by an attorney but cannot afford to retain an attorney. Also report the number of attorneys you have contacted in an attempt to retain an attorney to represent you in this matter. If you are not able to retain an attorney then get the Nolo Press book "How to Fight Your Traffic Ticket" There are also more in depth books at the local library.

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Answered on 3/25/06, 12:54 am


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