A drunk driving arrest can quickly turn your life upside down. From the moment you are stopped, you may be facing questions about your license, your record and even your freedom.
The next steps are not always straightforward, and the choices you make early on can shape the entire outcome of your case. While you can handle parts of the process on your own, getting legal help early can give you a better understanding of the charges and steps you need to take before important deadlines pass.
Why should you get legal help after a DUI arrest?
A DUI charge does not automatically mean you will be convicted. The circumstances surrounding the entire case matter when determining how the case should be handled.
Getting early legal help allows your case to be examined for possible problems with the prosecution’s evidence. Questions may arise about whether the officer had a lawful reason for the stop, whether testing procedures were properly followed, or whether other circumstances affected the reliability of the evidence.
Depending on the facts, there may also be opportunities to challenge certain evidence, negotiate for reduced charges or pursue another favorable resolution. Trying to identify those issues alone can be difficult when you are unfamiliar with California’s criminal court procedures.
What could happen if you are convicted?
A DUI conviction can bring consequences that extend beyond paying a fine. Depending on your circumstances and prior record, you could face:
- Incarceration
- License restrictions
- Mandatory DUI programming
- Increased insurance requirements
- Installation of an ignition interlock device
California DMV also reports DUI convictions on a driver’s record for 10 years. Therefore, if you have been charged with drunk driving in California, it is crucial to reach out for legal assistance promptly to help you make informed decisions that may allow you to effectively avoid this fate.