Have you been charged with driving under the influence (DUI) in California? If so, you probably already know that your future freedom of mobility, your finances, and your reputation are all on the line. A conviction could devastate any number of those three. But did you know that there are 5 things you should know now to help smooth out the entire process and hopefully avoid headaches? Let’s take a look at them.

1. DMV hearings: DUI arrests are somewhat unique in the way that they are not only going to deal with the criminal justice system in your county, but also the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). After the date of your arrest, you will only have 10 days to request a hearing with the DMV. During this session, you will be challenging the decision to revoke your license, not contesting your innocence from a crime.
2. Field sobriety tests: Standing on one foot, walking a straight line, and other similar curbside examinations are called field sobriety tests, and they can be refused without immediate consequence. If the arresting officer did not make your right to refuse them clear, you may be able to argue that any evidence collected against you during a test should be deemed inadmissible.
3. Chemical tests: Refusing to take a blood, breath, or urine test will cause an immediate revocation of your driver’s license, sober or not. As strict as chemical tests may seem, they are not unwavering and infallible. You have the right to challenge their results, and should do so with the help of a professional DUI attorney.
4. Reasonable suspicion: The police aren’t permitted to pull someone over unless they have reasonable suspicion that they have committed a crime. Along this same line, they must follow strict protocols while using a DUI checkpoint. Was your arrest’s circumstances questionable from the get-go? You may have an advantage in your defense.
5. Court cases: Many DUI cases never actually go to court, as strange as that might sound. Without a DUI lawyer in front of you and handling your defense, the criminal justice system and the DMV may gloss over your case and hit you with penalties, as if you are just a case number and not a person.

 

Have Questions? We Have Answers!

Understanding the specifics of your DUI case is great. Preparing yourself for the road ahead is even better. But the best thing you can do to protect your rights and your license might be to hire a Palo Alto DUI attorney from the Law Office of James Dunn. With nearly 20 years of legal experience and more than 100 jury trials under our belts, we are confident we can represent and shield you, regardless of the specifics and complexities of your case. Call today to request a free case evaluation with our team!