Though it is legally possible to defend yourself in a DUI case, it is not typically recommended. Court processes are not simple, so the skills of a Brea DUI attorney will be invaluable throughout your case. The penalties for a DUI conviction are severe, so it is important to reduce or avoid as many charges as possible.
DUI Attorney In Brea, CA
It is not uncommon for fatal car accidents in California to be caused by a driver under the influence of alcohol or drugs. As a result, the legal system takes a stern stance when prosecuting anyone accused of driving while impaired. Unfortunately, this can result in those accused of a DUI having their rights violated during the arrest, being overcharged, and receiving excessive punishments. For these reasons, getting arrested for a DUI in Brea can feel terrifying and life-shattering.
A DUI arrest and conviction can have serious and far-reaching consequences. Your most effective course of action is contacting a skilled DUI defense attorney to ensure your rights are protected throughout the process. The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman has over 20 years of experience in criminal defense law, including a successful history of handling high-profile and difficult criminal trials. Known for taking on the most notorious and toughest cases, our office will work diligently to ensure you receive the most favorable outcome for your case.
California DUI Laws
Multiple DUI laws affect Brea drivers, including commercial and underage drivers. The DUI laws affecting adult drivers are in Vehicle Code Section 23152:
- 23152(a): Driving a vehicle while under the influence of any alcoholic beverage is not lawful.
- 23152(b): It is unlawful to drive a vehicle with a blood alcohol content of 0.08 percent or higher.
- 23152(e): Driving a vehicle while under the influence of any drug is unlawful.
- 23152(f): It is unlawful to drive a vehicle while under the combined influence of any drug and/or alcoholic beverage.
Within Vehicle Code Section 23152 is a provision that specifically affects commercial driver’s license holders while they are operating these vehicles:
- 23152(d): It is unlawful to drive a commercial vehicle with a blood alcohol content of 0.04 percent or higher.
Though drivers under the age of 21 can be charged with adult crimes, the major DUI laws affecting this demographic are:
- Vehicle Code Section 23136: There is zero tolerance for underage drivers operating a vehicle with a BAC of 0.01% or higher.
- Vehicle Code Section 23140: It is unlawful for an underage driver to operate a vehicle with a blood alcohol content of 0.05 percent or higher.
SOMETIMES BAD THINGS HAPPENTO GOOD PEOPLE
You Need Jacqueline On Your Side
I am committed to providing my clients with the trusted counsel and aggressive defense they deserve. I believe in redemption and helping people get second chances. I devote a significant portion of my practice to criminal justice reform and I have provided pro bono representation in impact litigation to change the laws to benefit every Californian.
No one is perfect, and everyone has flaws. A mistake should not define you, and our Orange County criminal defense attorney is ready to fight to protect your future, no matter the charges. Attorney Jacqueline Goodman is here to get you out of this difficult situation and put you back in the position you were in before your trouble started!
DUI PENALTIES
There are two determining factors for the severity of the consequences of a DUI conviction:
- The number of DUIs that are on your record
- If any injuries occurred because of driving under the influence
Typically, DUIs are charged as misdemeanors, but if someone is injured, you were previously convicted of a felony DUI, or you have three or more DUI convictions within the previous ten years, your charges can be elevated to a felony. DUI penalties include:
- The incarceration period will range from up to six months to a year in county jail for a first-time offense. Fines will range from $390 to $1,000, as well as restitution if there were injured parties. An ignition interlock device will be placed on your vehicle for anywhere from six months to two years. Though this device can be refused, it will result in a license suspension lasting six months to three years. DUI school will also be mandatory for a term of three, nine, 18, or 30 months.
- The incarceration period will range from 16 months to three years in state prison. Fines range from $390 to $5,000, as well as restitution if there were injured parties. Depending on the type of felony, an ignition interlock device will be placed on your vehicle for one year, or your license will be suspended for up to five years. DUI school will be mandatory for 18 or 30 months.
The previously discussed penalties are only those that arise from the legal system. Many other potential consequences could arise from a DUI arrest or conviction. They include:
- Increased insurance premiums
- Getting fired from a job
- Inability to find rental housing
- Losing licensing for your career
It is with tremendous thanks and a grateful heart that we let you know how much we appreciated your expertise, advice and phone calls on [client's name] behalf. You are a person of service and dedication.
- Former client’s parents
I don't know where to start. Honestly, I don't think I could possibly write anything that would come close to describing Mrs. Goodman's Skill as a Lawyer , she truly is remarkable at what she does. Do yourself a favor, if your in a bind, and are looking for a well respected lawyer that can produce results.... Call Jacqueline! I…
- Sharif A.
Ms Goodman and her staff were beyond helpful. I was in an extremely difficult situation that I hadn’t been in before and needed help. I was referred to Jackie and her office who were extremely helpful. Jackie and her team were extremely empathetic and knowledgeable. They were quick to respond, took action, and kept me informed. Thank you Ms Goodman…
- Nick K.
Ms.Goodman has been an amazing and thorough lawyer representing my family. She has shown up to each court date, being prepared and ready to speak to the judge. She has been a great communicator with my family and kept us informed along the way. She is authentic, and will go the long mile on your case. Choose her to represent…
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I needed an appointment with Ms. Jacqueline Goodman and it was urgent. The best part was that she called me back immediately and I did not have to drive an hour to see her. The first meeting is free and she spoke with me for a lengthy time and she made me feel like for the first time in seeking…
- Mary P.
Ms Goodman was excellent an very professional. She took the time to understand our concerns an worries. I had 2 really bad cases facing 10+ years for trafficking, sales, an distribution between the both ... she was able to get me the best deal an walked away with probation an a new look at life. I will always recommend her…
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Ms. Goodman and her team is by far the best in Southern California. I literally had zero hope of getting anything but prison time on my current case and Ms. Goodman somehow got me an interview for probation. I can say it hasn’t been easy and she’s been doing a lot out of love more than any other attorney would…
- Former Client
The court was offering 9 years for 459pc. After retaining her I got the deal I wanted and even better I was free after serving just 2 years. She's an amazing attorney that you can count on.
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I can't even begin to express how amazing Jacqueline was when I worked with her for a close friend's case. She was always a quick text away, and when we worried she was the vote of confidence we needed to keep going. Her office staff was also SO easy to work with. Her closing statement moved me, the family, and…
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She was carring and attentive, always up front with information. She truly cares about her clients and works diligently to achieve the best possible outcome. My family and I truly admire and respect this amazing and talented lawyer. She is definitely someone you can count on for the best advice and outcome.
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Great attorney to work with. She's a boss and has some serious attorney swagger. When I walked into the court room with her, everybody stopped and starred. I felt like I was getting represented by a superstar attorney. She'll run circles around any DA.
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WHAT HAPPENS AFTER A DUI ARREST?
THE CRIMINAL LAW PROCESS
After being arrested on suspicion of a DUI, you will typically spend a few hours in jail before being released. It is not common for first-time offenders, especially if there were no injuries, to end up with a bail requirement that will keep them in jail. The next step will be an arraignment, or your first court appearance. This is when you enter an initial plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. If you plead guilty, the sentencing portion of your DUI case will begin. If you plead not guilty, the case will enter the pre-trial phase of the DUI process.
This phase is when your attorney will investigate the case and look for any evidence that could reduce or dismiss your DUI charges. If a dismissal is not possible, your attorney will attempt to negotiate a plea bargain with the prosecutor for reduced charges or penalties. If you take the plea bargain, you can avoid a trial. If you progress to a jury trial, the prosecutor must convince the jury beyond a reasonable doubt of your guilt. If you are found guilty, your case will progress to sentencing where your penalties will be determined.
THE DMV PROCESS
Though most people are familiar with the legal process that will follow when someone is charged with a misdemeanor, it is less common to know the DMV process that will follow. The arresting officer confiscates your driver’s license and notifies you that your driver’s license will be suspended in 30 days. You will be given a temporary driver’s license that will be valid until the suspension has begun. The arresting officer will send your driver’s license to the DMV, which will begin their automatic suspension process. You have ten days from the date of the arrest to request a DMV hearing, a quasi-legal proceeding where you will be allowed to challenge the upcoming suspension of your license. Your license will not be suspended if you succeed during this hearing, but the suspension process will continue if you are unsuccessful.
It is recommended that you plead not guilty and request a DMV hearing, but these actions can be confusing without an attorney’s support. For both the criminal and DMV process, The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman can make a significant impact on your case.
DUI ATTORNEY FAQ'S
Brea, CA
BREA DUI DEFENSE LAWYER
The right time to contact a Brea DUI defense attorney is as soon as you are able, as they can help walk you through the entire process. Having their knowledgeable assistance is beneficial as you navigate both the legal system and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) process. At The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman, we have ample experience in the criminal justice system, setting you up for the greatest opportunity for success. Contact us today for a consultation on your DUI case.
COMMON DUI MISTAKES
Some common DUI mistakes include:
- Self-incrimination. Though you may think speaking freely with the officer will help your case, anything you tell the officer can be used against you in a DUI case. The ideal practice is to avoid saying anything that would give the officer reasonable suspicion to conduct a sobriety test or search you.
- Downplaying the severity. If you were arrested for a DUI and released from jail quickly, it can lull you into a false sense of security. It may appear that the charges are minimal since you are not being held in jail, but that is far from the truth. The penalties for even a first-time DUI can be severe and are likely to have life-long effects.
- Failure to appear in court. Forgetting your court date or choosing not to go will have disastrous consequences, including a bench warrant for your arrest. Any bonds or bail you posted will also be revoked.