If you are pulled over for driving erratically or dangerously, officers will likely test your intoxication levels. Driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher is illegal and can lead to DUI charges.

Similarly, driving under the influence of any drug that hinders your ability to drive safely can also lead to an arrest. While DUI charges are serious and can lead to criminal penalties, you have the ability to defend yourself with help from our legal team.

At the DUI Defense Group, our team has extensive experience defending clients from DUI charges. Whether this is your first offense or you already have a criminal history, we are confident we can help you reduce or remove the penalties you face. To receive a free consultation and learn more about our services, call Camarillo DUI attorney law office today at 866-927-3295.

What Happens After a DUI Arrest?

When officers suspect someone of driving under the influence, they will pull them over and administer a chemical test. In most cases, a chemical test is a breathalyzer test that measures your BAC. Officers may also give you a field sobriety test to check your level of intoxication.

If officers find that you are over the legal drinking limit or you are too intoxicated to drive safely, you will likely be detained or arrested. Once you are at the police station, a lab technician will likely test your blood.

The California DMV will be notified once your charges have been officially processed. The DMV will likely automatically suspend your license. You have ten days after the date of your arrest to request a DMV hearing to have your license reinstated. If you do not request this hearing or you lose this hearing, your license will remain suspended.

You will also have a chance to meet with our legal team to prepare your defense strategy. Your criminal case is separate from your DMV case. Our DUI lawyers can negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf to reduce or remove your charges. If your case goes to trial, our team can present evidence in your defense before a judge.

What Penalties Do You Face for a DUI Conviction?

The potential penalties for DUI convictions vary depending on your criminal history and the circumstances of your arrest. In general, if your DUI involves property damage, bodily injury, or death, the penalties will be more severe.

Below are the most common penalties you could face after a DUI conviction:

  • Six months driver’s license suspension
  • Three to five years of probation
  • Hefty fines
  • Three months of a required drug or alcohol education program
  • Ignition interlock device

If this is your first criminal offense, it is unlikely that you will serve jail time. However, if you have a DUI conviction on your record already or you have been convicted of a felony before, you may be sentenced to jail or prison.

Can You Fight a DUI Charge?

DUI charges come with severe penalties. Fortunately, there are legal defense strategies our team can help you with. Your legal defense strategy will depend on your specific charges and your criminal history. However, there are some common defenses that may be relevant to you.

The most common ways to fight a DUI charge include:

  • The police did not have probable cause to pull you over
  • The police made an error during your detainment or arrest
  • The breathalyzer or blood test results are inaccurate
  • You have a medical condition that affects your blood alcohol content

What Can a Camarillo DUI Lawyer Do for Me?

Facing DUI charges can be frightening and overwhelming, especially if it is your first criminal offense. Fortunately, a Camarillo DUI lawyer on our team can review your case and develop a solid legal strategy that’s right for you. From negotiating with prosecutors to defending you before a judge, we will stay by your side every step of the way.

Our team at the DUI Defense Group only takes on cases related to DUIs and traffic violations. We are confident that with our legal experience, we can help you. For more information about our services and to receive a free consultation, contact our Camarillo DUI lawyer today.