Legal Question in DUI Law in California

Dui......

I was arrested and booked for DUI (my first DUI)over the weekend. The booking report states I'm being charged with a misdemeanor DUI and that I had .08 BAC

I did take a field sobriety exam and a breathalizer test at the station.

I don't remember being pulled over. My memory of that night is very vague so I don't even know if I answered many questions the police may have asked me before arresting me.

My court date is in September and I'v already contacted the DMV about scheduling a hearing so that I don't lose my license after 30 days.

Do I have a chance at reducing the charge? Can I ask for a continuence when I appear at court?

I know what the possible penalties may be. Since it's my first DUI offense is jail time a certainty?

Hopefully a restricted license is given to me since I need to not lose my job over this.

I would just like to take care of this and move on.....

Can retaining a Lawyer help or would I just be paying alot of money for something I could have done myself? And that is to take my punishment!


Asked on 7/12/06, 1:54 am

5 Answers from Attorneys

Philip Iadevaia Law Offices of Philip A. Iadevaia

Re: Dui......

You need to get a lawyer for consultation. There are numerous factors affecting a charge for DUI, and the DMV's involvement only complicates them. Sure, you may be able to have the charge reduced if the facts warrant it and the DA (or CA) is agreeable, but even a reduced charge carries detriment and lasting consequences that could affect your future. Do yourself a favor, hire a lawyer to deal with this. Good luck.

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Answered on 7/12/06, 11:04 am
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Re: Dui......

If handled well by your attorney, you shouldn't face more than the mandatory minimum jail time, with credit for time served at arrest. You DO face substantial fines, probation, programs, insurance increases, etc. Your attorney will be able to counsel you on how to apply for a restricted license, IF the court allows it, which it probably will. Feel free to contact me if interested in getting this done right.

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Answered on 7/12/06, 12:29 pm
Stephen Sitkoff Takakjian & Sitkoff, LLP

Re: Dui......

Too many questions to answer by e-mail. For more complete information please contact Mike Navarro at our office at [email protected] . Please include a telephone number so he can call you.

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Answered on 7/12/06, 4:17 pm
Richard Wagner Wagner & Zielinski, A Professional Law Corp.

Re: Dui......

You can contact me for information.

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Answered on 7/12/06, 8:41 pm
Norman Gregory Fernandez, Esq. The Law Offices of Norman Gregory Fernandez & Associates

Re: Dui......

Retaining a lawyer is the best thing to do period. I have a great 28 year criminal lawyer on staff who would work a good deal on the case for you. You can get my contact info on here on go to my website at www.best.law.pro

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Answered on 7/13/06, 4:15 am


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