First Offense DUI in California

Defending against a first-offense DUI charge in Orange County and Southern California requires a thorough understanding of the legal system, scientific and procedural variables, and potential defense strategies. Our team is adept at identifying protocol errors from officers and prosecutors and navigating the complexities of California Department of Motor Vehicles (“DMV”) and court procedures. At HJP Legal, our goal is to minimize the repercussions and guide our clients through to a favorable outcome.

Driving Under the Influence (“DUI”) is a prevalent charge in Southern California, as the region and entire state grapples with a high incidence of alcohol-related traffic accidents. California, like much of the nation, has adopted stricter measures to combat drunk driving. Understand that there are no quick fixes when confronted with your first DUI charge. Drunk driving is an offense that can result in harsh penalties upon conviction without proper representation in the courtroom. Choosing the right defense attorney in Orange County and Southern California is a critical decision to make after being arrested for DUI.

A frequent error people make is attempting to handle their DMV hearings and court cases without legal representation. Defending a DUI charge in Southern California demands a deep understanding of the local courts and the California Department of Motor Vehicles (“DMV”). Without the guidance of a skilled Orange County DUI defense attorney, you may face additional penalties and consequences.

DUI Also Affects Immediate Family

At HJP Legal, we understand that first-offense Southern California DUI charges have a ripple effect that can impact not just the individual charged but also their families. Our approach is centered on reuniting families after a distressing event.

Our experienced attorneys will provide guidance through the criminal court process, administrative hearings, and necessary steps outside of court. If you or your family members face DUI charges in Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego and Los Angeles counties, contact our offices today at (949) 340-0102 for a complimentary consultation.

Note that you have only ten (10) days from the arrest date to request an administrative hearing through the DMV. Failure to contact the DMV within this timeframe can result in automatic suspension of your driving privileges, even after your first DUI offense.

DUI Arrests Mean Two Different Cases May Be Filed Against You

In California, when a driver is charged with DUI, there likely will be two separate cases filed against the driver:

• The Criminal Case.
• The Administrative hearing.

An Administrative hearing deals with the driver’s license, driving privilege, and license suspension with the California Department of Motor Vehicles.

Retaining an experienced DUI defense attorney, like Halley J. Peters from HJP Legal, is very important to defend your ability to drive to work, school, and other daily necessities. Call Halley today at (949) 340-0102.

The period for response to these charges and defending your driving privileges is only 10 days. Therefore, you must speak with a qualified DUI defense attorney immediately when you are released from incarceration after being pulled over.

A criminal case for DUI in California will then decide whether the driver is innocent or guilty, and the court will determine which punishments to impose if the driver is found guilty.

Hiring The Right California DUI Defense Lawyer

Charges for a DUI in Orange, Riverside, Los Angeles, San Diego and San Bernardino counties can affect individuals from all walks of life, including those who are not seasoned criminals. In fact, many DUI first offenders are professionals with good standing in their communities.

At HJP Legal, we understand the importance of getting your life back on track. As experienced attorneys, we are well-respected in courthouses and are committed to fighting vigorously for our clients, protecting their rights, and preserving their freedoms.

Our firm takes pride in the relationships we have built with opposing counsel, law enforcement, and every client who walks through our doors. These relationships allow us to negotiate effectively with prosecutors because we speak their language and know the inner workings of the judicial system concerning DUI offenses.

Rest assured, we will diligently strive to achieve a positive resolution on your behalf, drawing on our extensive expertise as skilled negotiators and experienced trial attorneys.

For first-time DUI charges and subsequent/multiple DUI charges in Southern California, you need the experience of veteran attorney Halley J. Peters at HJP Legal, licensed to practice in both California and Florida. For a consultation and for response to your first offense DUI charges, contact us 24/7 at (949) 340-0102.

Remember that with Halley, no concern is too small.