California DUI Defense

A DUI case can involve both a criminal proceeding and separate driver's-license consequences. The circumstances of the stop, field sobriety testing, chemical testing, arrest, and subsequent investigation may all be relevant to the defense.

Depending on the facts of the case, potential issues may include:

• Whether the traffic stop was legally justified

• Whether there was probable cause for the arrest

• Field sobriety testing

• Breath or blood testing

• The timing and administration of chemical testing

• Whether testing procedures were properly followed

• The accuracy and reliability of test results

• Statements made during the investigation

• Prior DUI convictions

• Potential DMV consequences

• Court-imposed penalties

Every case is fact specific. A DUI arrest does not necessarily determine the outcome of the criminal case.

What Happens After a DUI Arrest?

After an arrest, there are generally several separate issues that need to be addressed.

1. The Criminal Case

The criminal case proceeds through the court system. Depending on the circumstances, the case may involve arraignment, discovery, negotiations with the prosecution, motions, court appearances, and potentially trial.

2. Your Driver's License

A DUI arrest can also trigger a separate administrative process involving the California Department of Motor Vehicles.

The timing of DMV-related issues can be important, so you should not assume that the criminal court case and driver's-license case are the same proceeding.

3. The Facts of Your Arrest

The details surrounding the stop and arrest matter.

An attorney reviewing your case may examine issues such as the reason for the traffic stop, the officer's observations, field sobriety testing, chemical testing, body-camera evidence, police reports, and other available evidence.