Virtuoso Criminal and DUI Lawyers Virtuoso Criminal and DUI Lawyers
DUI

San Francisco DUI Attorney

Defense for DUI Charges in the Bay Area

If a DUI charge is weighing on your mind, Virtuoso Criminal and DUI Lawyers in San Francisco have got you covered! Our team of experienced San Francisco DUI attorneys understands the complex DUI laws in California and the serious consequences that can follow a conviction.

We're committed to working diligently and securing the best possible outcome for you. With over a decade of experience in criminal defense, we have a proven track record of success in achieving favorable outcomes for clients like you.

We're well-versed in both the Court and DMV proceedings and can guide you through every step of the legal process. Worried about costs? No problem. We offer flexible monthly payment plans so you can get the help you need without breaking the bank.

Don't let a DUI charge take over your life. Get in touch with our San Francisco DUI lawyers at (510) 988-5566 or fill out our online form, available 24/7! Let us help you get back on track.

We Handle All Types of DUI Charges

Learn more about California’s DUI charges, penalties, and defenses with the resources provided below. We represent client’s facing all DUI charges, including:

Overview of California DUI Laws

DUI Arrest Process in California

If you are suspected of driving under the influence in California, law enforcement officers may pull you over based on observed erratic driving or other violations. They may conduct field sobriety tests and, if necessary, administer a chemical test to measure your BAC.

Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limits

It is illegal to operate a vehicle with a BAC of 0.08% or higher in California. For those under the age of 21, the BAC limit is 0.01%. This establishes California's "zero-tolerance" policy for underage drinking and driving.

Implied Consent Laws in CA

By obtaining a CA driver's license, you consent to submit to a chemical test (breath, blood, or urine) if arrested on suspicion of DUI. Refusing to take the test can result in additional penalties, such as license suspension.

License Suspension

Following a DUI arrest, the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may suspend your driver's license. You may have the opportunity to request a hearing to contest the suspension.

Penalties for DUI in California

The penalties one faces for a DUI offense can very depending on prior convictions and aggravating circumstances.

  • 1st time DUI: Fines between $390 - $1,000, potential jail time of up to 6 months, a license suspension for 6 months, and attendance of a DUI program.
  • 2nd time DUI: up to 1 year in jail, hefty fines, license suspension for up to 2 years, installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle, and up to 30 months of DUI school.
  • 3rd time DUI: probation of 3-5 years, up to 1 year in jail, fines from $2,500-3,000, 3-year license suspension, and up to 30 months of DUI school.
  • Felony DUI: A DUI offense can be charged as a felony in California. This typically occurs when the driver has multiple prior DUI convictions within a specific time frame or when the DUI results in injury or death. Minimum of 180-day jail sentence.

Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs)

Individuals convicted of DUI in California may be required to install an IID in their vehicles in some cases. These devices measure BAC and prevent the vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected.

Enhanced Penalties for DUI in California

Certain factors can lead to enhanced penalties which may include having a BAC above 0.15%, causing injury or death while driving under the influence, or having prior DUI convictions within a specified period.

If you are facing any of these aspects of DUI law and charges, contact our San Francisco DUI lawyers today at (510) 988-5566 for skilled representation!

Challenging a DUI Charge in CA

If you are wanting to contest a DUI charge that you're facing, contact our San Francisco DUI attorneys today. They will be able to provide you with specific legal advice tailored to your situation.

Challenging a DUI charge in California may include:

  • Hire a DUI defense attorney: For guidance through the legal process, they can assess the strength of the prosecution's case, and develop a defense strategy based on the details surrounding your arrest.
  • Review the evidence: Your attorney will thoroughly examine the evidence against you, including police reports, breathalyzer or blood test results, and any other relevant documentation. They will look for any procedural errors, violations of your rights, or weaknesses in the evidence that can be used to challenge the charges.
  • Challenge the traffic stop: Your attorney will investigate the circumstances of the traffic stop to determine if there were any constitutional violations or improper procedures followed by law enforcement.
  • Assess field sobriety tests: Field sobriety tests (FSTs) are often conducted during a DUI stop. Your attorney will evaluate whether these tests were administered correctly and if the results can be challenged.
  • Challenge chemical tests: If you took a breathalyzer or blood test, your attorney will scrutinize the procedures followed during the test administration, calibration, maintenance, and storage of the testing equipment.
  • Review officer's conduct: Your attorney will evaluate the behavior and actions of the arresting officer to determine if there were any irregularities, biases, or violations of your rights. Misconduct or procedural errors can be used to challenge the validity of the arrest.
  • Negotiate or pursue trial: Depending on the strength of the defense, your attorney may engage in plea negotiations with the prosecution to secure a favorable outcome, such as reduced charges or penalties. If a satisfactory resolution cannot be reached, your attorney may advise you to proceed to trial, where they will present your defense and challenge the prosecution's case in court.

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