Because driving under the influence (DUI) is a crime in California, you could face jail time, the loss of your driver’s license, and steep fines if you are convicted. So, if you have been arrested for DUI, it is important to contact an experienced Alameda County DUI lawyer as soon as possible.
At the Law Office of Jose A. Velasquez, we have successfully represented clients in all types of DUI cases, from first-time offenders to those facing multiple DUI charges. We understand the science behind DUI testing and know how to challenge the results of a breathalyzer test or blood test. We will also investigate whether the police had probable cause to stop you in the first place.
Call Us At (831) 424-5680 For A FREE Consultation!
California DUI Laws
In California, it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or higher. If you are stopped by the police and asked to take a breathalyzer test, and your BAC is .08% or higher, you will be arrested for DUI.
Even if your BAC is less than.08%, you can still be arrested for DUI if the cops believe that alcohol or drugs have affected your driving ability.
California DUI Penalties
The penalties for DUI in California depend on a number of factors, including whether you have been arrested for DUI before, your BAC at the time of your arrest, and whether anyone was injured as a result of your driving.
First-Time DUI Offenders in California
If this is your first DUI offense, you will face the following penalties:
- Up to six months in jail;
- A fine of up to $2,600;
- Driver’s license suspension for up to six months; and
- Mandatory participation in a DUI education program.
If your BAC was .08% or higher, or if you refused to take a breathalyzer test, you will also be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle.
Multiple DUI Offenders in California
If you have been arrested for DUI more than once, the penalties are much harsher. For a second DUI offense, you will face the following penalties:
- Up to one year in jail;
- A fine of up to $2,800;
- Driver’s license suspension for up to two years;
- Mandatory participation in a DUI education program; and
- Installation of an IID in your vehicle.
For a third DUI offense, you will face the following penalties:
- Up to a year in jail may be imposed.;
- The maximum fine is $18,000;
- For up to three years, a driver’s license may be revoked.;
- Mandatory participation in a DUI education program; and
- Installing an IID in your car.
DUI with Injury in California
If you are convicted of DUI and someone is injured as a result of your driving, you will be charged with a felony and face the following penalties:
- Up to a year in jail may be imposed, depending on the circumstances;
- A fine of up to $5,000;
- A driver’s license suspension for up to three years is possible.;
- Mandatory participation in a DUI education program; and Installation of an IID in your vehicle.
If someone is killed as a result of your DUI, you will be charged with felony vehicular manslaughter and face the following penalties:
- Up to ten years in jail;
- A fine of up to $10,000;
- Mandatory participation in a DUI education program; and
- Installation of an IID in your vehicle.
Defenses Against DUI Charges in California
There are a number of defenses that can be raised against DUI charges in California. Some of the most common include:
- The police did not have probable cause to stop you;
- The police did not read you your Miranda rights;
- The results of your breathalyzer test or blood test were inaccurate;
- You were not actually driving the vehicle;
- You were not impaired by alcohol or drugs; and
- The police used illegal tactics to obtain evidence against you.
If you have been charged with DUI in California, it is important that you contact an experienced DUI attorney who can investigate your case and help you build a strong defense.
Alameda County DUI Lawyer
If you have been arrested for DUI, it is important to contact an experienced Alameda County DUI lawyer as soon as possible. At the Law Office of Jose A. Velasquez, we have successfully represented clients in all types of DUI cases, from first-time offenders to those facing multiple DUI charges. We understand the science behind DUI testing and know how to challenge the results of a breathalyzer test or blood test. We will also investigate whether the police had probable cause to stop you in the first place.
Call Us At (831) 424-5680 For A FREE Consultation!
Living In Alameda County CA
As of 2019, Alameda County has a population of 1,671,000. The county seat is Oakland and the largest city is Hayward. Alameda County is located in the San Francisco Bay Area and includes the cities of Berkeley, Fremont, Hayward, Newark, Oakland, Pleasanton, and Union City. The county spans 738 square miles and has a population density of 2,062 people per square mile. Of the population, 25.5% are under the age of 18, 10.3% are over the age of 65, and 57.9% are female. The median household income is $64,325 and the median family income is $81,754. The county’s major industries include healthcare, education, retail trade, manufacturing, and professional services.
Alameda County CA to 137 Central Ave #7, Salinas, CA 93901. Driving Directions
via US-101 S
Fastest route, the usual traffic
- Alameda County California, USA
- Get on I-680 S in Sunol from Mines Rd, Concannon Blvd and CA-84 W
- Follow I-680 S and US-101 S to CA-183 N/N Main St in Salinas. Take exit 329 from US-101 S
- Continue on CA-183 N/N Main St to your destination
- 137 Central Ave #7 Salinas, CA 93901, USA
If you need an appointment with Attorney Jose Velasquez
call 831-424-5680 to schedule a confidential consultation.
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