Alameda & Contra Costa County Attorney

DUI Defense Lawyer in Alameda County, Contra Costa County & the Bay Area

What is DUI?

DUI stands for “driving under the influence.” This is a criminal offense that involves a driver operating a motor vehicle while with a blood alcohol concentration of .08% or greater, or while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance.

What are some potential penalties I might face for an Alameda & Contra Costa County DUI conviction?

The penalties for DUI convictions in Alameda County, California are quite harsh. Depending upon the circumstances of your case, you may face a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment, heavy fines, community service, driver’s license suspension, probation, DUI School and possibly drug or alcohol treatment.

When should I call an attorney?

You should contact an Alameda & Contra Costa County DUI attorney as soon as possible after your arrest. An attorney experienced with these matters can begin taking immediate action to protect your rights, building a case on your behalf to discount the charges the prosecution has brought against you. Your attorney can also schedule your DMV hearing for you and represent you at this hearing to help protect your driver’s license.

What is a DMV hearing?

A DMV hearing is an administrative procedure conducted by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). When a driver is arrested for driving under the influence, his or her California driver’s license is confiscated by the arresting officer. If the driver does not contact the DMV and schedule an administrative license suspension hearing within 10 calendar days, the DMV will suspend the driver’s license – regardless of whether he or she is actually found guilty of DUI in criminal court.

Do I have to submit to a breath or blood test?

Under California’s Implied Consent Law, refusing a breath test or blood test will result in license suspension penalties by the DMV. So while you can refuse a breath or blood test after your DUI arrest, you will face the suspension of your driver’s license for your refusal. Multiple refusals may result in criminal charges as well.

Contact our firm today to talk to Alameda & Contra Costa County DUI lawyer Lynn Gorelick about your case and your legal options.