First Offense DUI Lawyer in California

Getting arrested for a first-time DUI in California can be overwhelming. Most people have no prior criminal history and don’t even know what questions to ask a lawyer. We don’t wait for you to ask questions; we take the initiative and explain everything. You may be worried about losing your license, losing your job, paying heavy fines, or even going to jail. At California Criminal Defense Center, our experienced DUI attorneys help first-time offenders avoid harsh penalties and protect their driving record. We know the system, and we know how to fight for the best possible outcome.

Why You Need a Lawyer for a First-Time DUI?

Many people think that because it’s their first DUI, they can handle the case alone. That’s a dangerous mistake. Even a first offense can lead to:

• Up to 6 months in jail
• License suspension by the DMV (4 months, 6 months, or 12 months)
• Fines over $2,000
• Mandatory DUI school
• Probation

An experienced first-time DUI lawyer can often reduce these penalties — or often get such charges dismissed — by identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence.

Understanding First-Time DUI Charges in California

California Vehicle Code §23152(b) defines DUI as driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.  Section 23152(a) defines driving under the influence of alcohol in California without referencing a minimum BAC percentage. Even if your BAC was below 0.08%, you can still be charged if the officer believes alcohol or drugs impaired your driving.

What Happens After a DUI Arrest?

• Your license is confiscated, and you receive temporary 30-day driving privileges.
• You should request a DMV hearing within 10 days to contest the suspension.
• You’ll receive a court date for your criminal case.

The DMV hearing determines whether your driver’s license will be suspended. A court conviction for DUI also determines whether your license will be suspended. Having a qualified and experienced DUI lawyer represent you can make a huge difference in keeping your driving privileges.

How Our First-Time DUI Lawyers Help You?

Our legal team focuses on helping you move forward — not letting one mistake define your life. Immediately, we structure your case in a way that will maximize your temporary driving privileges pending the preparation and resolution of your case.

We Analyze the Arrest Details

We review all of the evidence including police reports, body cam footage, patrol vehicle videos, calibration and maintenance records of the breath-alcohol instruments, the blood draw methodology, the chemical test results, and all other available evidence.  We look for procedural errors that may have violated your rights.

We Challenge Breath and Blood Tests

Testing equipment is often unreliable. Breath tests are fallible! We question every aspect of test accuracy, we scrutinize whether the blood-draw was conducted based on acceptable medical practices (aka AMP), we evaluate blood storage methods, and we explore our clients’ medical conditions that may have affected the results (ie. Diabetes, GERD, etc…)

We Negotiate or Defend in Court

Our priority is to get a case dismissed, whenever possible.  Secondarily, we aim to get your charges reduced to a reduced charge such as a “speed exhibition” or “reckless driving” — both of which carry lighter penalties than a DUI conviction.

Penalties for a First DUI in California:

Typical first-offense penalties include:

• 3 years of probation
• $2000 in fines & fees
• 6-month license suspension
• 3-month, 6-month, or 9-month DUI program
• Possible community service
• Mothers Against Drunk Driving class (aka MADD or Victim Impact Panel)
• Possible jail time (up to 6 months)

However, with a strong defense, many of these penalties can be avoided or minimized.

Common Defense Strategies for First-Time DUI Cases:

• Unlawful traffic stop (no probable cause)
• Inaccurate breathalyzer results
• Improper blood draw
• Improper field sobriety testing
• No-drive defense
• Medical or physiological conditions mimicking intoxication
• Rising blood-alcohol defense

Areas We Serve:

We defend first-time DUI clients throughout California, including: Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, Irvine, Inland Empire, Ventura, etc.  

Schedule a Free Consultation with a First-Time DUI Lawyer:

Don’t let one mistake ruin your future. Our team is here to protect your rights, your license, and your reputation. Call the California Criminal Defense Center today for a free and confidential consultation with a First-Time DUI attorney who knows how to fight for you.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Will I go to jail for a first-time DUI in California?

In most cases, first-time offenders do not serve jail time, especially with strong legal representation. Your lawyer can often negotiate alternatives like probation or community service.

2. How long will a DUI stay on my record?

A first DUI conviction stays on your record for life, but it may be expunged (dismissed) upon successful completion of probation.

3. Can I still drive after my first DUI arrest?

Yes, but only temporarily. You must request a DMV hearing within 10 days to challenge the suspension. Your attorney can handle this process and fight to keep your license.  In some cases, we can avoid a suspension entirely.  In other cases where there is a suspension, we can get our clients back to driving almost seamlessly by assisting them in getting a restricted drivers license.

4. What are the chances of getting my first DUI dismissed?

Dismissal depends on the evidence. If police made errors, the breath test was inaccurate, or your rights were violated, your lawyer may be able to get your case dismissed or reduced to a lesser charge.  Even if police did not make errors, we can get many charges and penalties significantly reduced.