Sacramento DUI Lawyer

Like most cities in California, Sacramento has strict penalties for people who operate a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Even if it is only your first offense, you could be facing jail time, hefty fines, and the loss of your license. You need to retain the services of an experienced Sacramento DUI lawyer to help with your case from start to finish.

There are two basic DUI laws in California which can be divided as misdemeanor related and felony related DUI laws. With some arrests for DUI, both could be charged and you could be convicted of both as well. If you got a DUI in Sacramento you do have the legal right to defend yourself and choosing the right Sacramento DUI lawyer can help relieve some of the stress you are facing with your case.

1) When arrested for DUI in California here is what to expect from the officer:

• The officers must have adequate facts to constitute the right for a probable cause stop in order to detain you or even place you under arrest.
• The officers must inform you of your right to refuse any and all field sobriety tests, including a breath test.
• If you are arrested, you must be read your Miranda rights before any questioning can take place.
• The officers must give you a choice of a blood test or breath test, and if you do refuse, they must advise you of the legal consequences of refusal.
• If they perform a breath test at the police station, they must according to law offer you the right to retain the sample for independent testing by your Sacramento DUI lawyer.

Sacramento DUI Lawyer

2) DUI laws in California can be divided into three basic categories:

• Misdemeanor for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol with a BAC of .08 or higher
• For more serious DUI charges, you could be charged with a felony DUI if an injury occurs
• Vehicular manslaughter will be charged in the event of a death occurs as a direct result of the DUI

3) DUI penalties under California law:

• California DUI laws are very complex and the possible penalties vary and are determined by the nature of the offense and BAC at time of your arrest.
• Sentences are imposed based on these factors:
• Prior convictions for DUI during the past 10 years
• If you were speeding 20 or more over the limit
• If you had a minor child under the age of 14 in the vehicle with you
• If your BAC was over .15
• Refusing to submit to field sobriety test
• The facts of your case
• Policies of the local prosecutors and court system
• Any weaknesses in the case that your Sacramento DUI lawyer can uncover
• The reputation of your defense lawyer

It can be a disturbing and stressful situation when charged with a DUI in California. A reputable Sacramento DUI lawyer can educate you on the DUI laws and how your case should move forward. You lawyer will also assist you with the DMV hearing, which must be requested within 10 days of your arrest.

You also need a reliable Sacramento DUI lawyer who has an excellent understanding of the DUI laws in California and can guide you through all aspects of your case from start to finish. You need someone who will fight for your rights to achieve the best possible outcome of your court case.

You may also be order to install an ignition interlock device at your expense on your vehicle. If convicted, your conviction will be placed on your permanent record and can adversely affect your future employment plans and could directly affect your credit rating.

If you are under the age of 21 at the time of your arrest, you could be facing suspension of your license for up to one year, probation, and drug and alcohol assessment and treatment.