10 Tips for Hiring the Best DUI Attorney in Orange County, CA

Drinking Under Influence (DUI) charges in Orange County, California can be costly. From fines and penalties, probation to years of summary probation, this is one of the legal issues you cannot take lightly. It even gets worse if you have caused death or severe injuries or it’s the fourth DUI charge within 10 years. That’s because, under California DUI law, you should be charged with a felony case in these three cases. That means you are likely to spend years in jail or pay hefty fines and penalties. So, you need to hire the best Orange County DUI lawyers to defend you and more so avoid conviction.

There many Best DUI lawyers in Orange County, CA, but finding a good one can be a complicated process. Here are 10 tips for hiring best Orange County DUI attorneys who can help you fight your charges and avoid conviction:

1.DUI Experience

The first thing that you need to check in a DUI lawyer in Orange County is its experience. This is where most people get it wrong and end up being convicted. Experience is all about the number of cases that the lawyer has handled for the period that they have been in practice. It is also important to note that DUI charges are not the same. If you are being charged for the third time in 10 years, your charges are more serious compared to a first-time offender. So go for a lawyer or law firm with vast experience in this field and has handled many DUI cases similar to yours. 

2.First Impressions Matter

The first impression is a crucial factor when hiring a DUI attorney. How easy was it to get an appointment with the lawyer? Did the lawyer give you time to speak? Did the DUI attorney provide the answers to your question? Were you impressed by their customer service? These are some of the questions that will help rate your first impression. If you were happy with your first encounter with the lawyer, hire them. But if you were not impressed, avoid them.

3.Passion for the law

Just like any other profession, passion is very important when it comes to lawyers. There are attorneys who are there for the money and have got no passion for the law. Such lawyers can be identified by the way they represent their argument in the court. We highly recommend that you hire lawyers who love their work. There are so many ways you can identify a passionate lawyer from the start. If they are taking time to listen to you and show interest in your case, then they are good for you.

4. Check Testimonials

If there are is good to tell a good lawyer is by reading testimonials. If the attorney has been in practice in Orange County for a while, then they must have served a number of people. That’s why you need to look for their prior clients’ testimonials to know what people are saying about. Look at their social media profiles and websites to see what people are saying. We also recommend that you look for forums where people are talking about their experience with lawyers in this county. Lastly, you can ask friends about the lawyers you may want to work with.

5.Relationship with The Prosecutor

The relationship of the DUI attorney with the court is an important tip most people forget. You can easily tell a good lawyer based on the relationship he/she has with the court. A lawyer that has a good relationship with the court shows professionalism in their work. They are professionals and have better chances of saving you from a conviction. A lawyer who has a bad standing with the local prosecutor might get you convicted due to prejudiced. So checking the relationship that the DUI attorney has with the local the prosecutor is a crucial factor to consider.

6.Size of the Firm

Before you pick the law firm to represent in court, it is important that you consider their size. What is the number of their lawyers vis-à-vis the number of cases they are handling? If the firm has few lawyers and tons of court cases, then your case might not get the attention it requires. So, you might end up getting a conviction or hefty fines in a DUI case that you could have won. Pick a large firm that has many lawyers and fewer clients, because they will give your cases the attention that it deserves.

7. Communication Is Key

Like all criminal cases, going through the DUI court process can be very stressful. So you need to high a lawyer who will make it easy to communicate with. They should provide you with all the information you need to know about your case. However, you can only know about lawyer’s communication ratings by researching and asking their prior customers. Go for the best-rated attorney. That’s another tip for hiring the best Orange County DUI attorneys.

8.Disciplined DUI Lawyers

Another mistake the people make when hiring Orange County DUI attorney is failing to search if they have been disciplined in their career. If the lawyer has been disciplined by the bar, it means that they have discipline issues, and they lack professionalism in their work. So you should look for a lawyer that has never been disciplined by the bar. It shows professionalism.

9.Is It One Attorney or A Team of Attorneys

There are many benefits that come with working a law firm that has many experienced attorneys. Such firms usually brainstorm a case, and thus the chances of avoiding a conviction are higher. That is not the same when dealing with a single attorney. He could be one of the best Orange County DUI attorneys, but he cannot outperform a group of experienced lawyers. So go for a law firm with many and experienced DUI attorneys.

10.Legal fees

Last but not least is the issue of legal fees. This is one of the questions that most people ask when hiring a DUI attorney. First, work within your budget. Lawyers have different rates depending on their experience, among other factors. However, don’t go cheap because the quality of the service might be poor. However, the best orange county DUI attorneys are affordable. So look around before settling on a DUI attorney.

So, if you want to hire an Orange County DUI lawyer, these are some of the crucial things to look out for. With these 10 tips, there is no doubt that you will get yourself the best Orange County DUI lawyers.

The Roles and Responsibilities of a DUI Attorney

Driving Under the Influence is considered, by the public at least, to be one of the most serious criminal offenses in California. If you've been charged with a DUI, the “zero tolerance” policies of the prosecutor, and the court may cause you to face severe consequences ranging from fines, surcharges, community service, loss of driving privileges, and sometimes even jail time. While it may be tempting to go it alone and face the charge yourself, the judge in your case, the prosecutor, and almost every attorney you can find will tell you that it is a bad idea and in fact, highly discourage this. You may not have the experience and knowledge to navigate the various technical aspects of DUI law. The best decision is hiring an Orange County DUI lawyer to represent you.

What about a public defender?

If you choose not to get your own lawyer, and if you financially qualify, you will be given a public defender. Many people make the mistake of thinking this is the easiest way to go. What you need to know is that they may get you through the case, but they may not give your case as much time as you like. They have lots of other cases to handle, and they may not concentrate on yours. In other cases, some public defenders are often young and inexperienced. Getting the help of a professional Orange County DUI attorney is the best way to go. He will concentrate on your case fully to ensure you get a favorable outcome.

How Can DUI Attorney Help You? Roles and Responsibilities

An expert determination of your case

When you're pulled over on the suspicion of driving under the influence, you're either given a sobriety test or a breathalyzer test. Also, anything you say at the time of your arrest can be used against you in a court of law. The prosecution will use all these pieces to convince the judge that you're guilty. They'll use dash cams to show you wobbling during the sobriety tests or present results (whether accurate or not) from either a breathalyzer test or blood test. When all this evidence is stacked against you, you may get scared. How can you stand up against evidence as much as this?

Luckily, an experienced Best DUI lawyer in Orange County knows what to do whenever evidence is presented. They can argue that the breathalyzer machine was faulty, get witnesses to testify in your favor, and even show that your rights were violated during the arrest to get you off the hook.

Ensure your rights are protected all through the process

Another way an Orange County DUI attorney can help you is helping you understand your rights and making sure they're protected. The legal system is complicated and hard to navigate; it's easy for an inexperienced individual not to know how the law is intended to protect him or her. An excellent lawyer will explain all these rights to you and ensure any official doesn't violate them. Remember that the police officers weren't intoxicated and sometimes they may fabricate issues just to land you in jail. Others may force you to do things outside the law so that you can implicate yourself. Hiring a lawyer to be your legal representative ensures that all these violations do not occur.

Taking care of paperwork and deadlines

When you're facing a DUI charge, and the case has gone to court, there is lots of paperwork that needs handling. If you've never been charged before, handling this paperwork can be a stressful process for you. You may not know the right documents to fill and where to file them. However, when you hire an experienced lawyer, he/she will take care of this part of the process for you. They'll fill it and file it as necessary before deadlines. And since dates are crucial in legal proceedings, a lawyer will keep track of them to make sure you don't miss any proceeding.

Giving crucial advice on how to plea

If you choose to represent yourself, you can make decisions that may land you in trouble. For instance, you may choose to accept that you were driving under the influence, thinking that it will help make the case easier. However, the prosecutor may be waiting for this chance to ensure that you land in jail or receive a more harsh sentence than could be negotiated. These and other bad decisions can make your case even worse. That's where Orange County DUI lawyers come in handy to help you make the right choices. Especially if you're in a profession or plan to join a career that involves obtaining a professional license, a knowledgeable attorney can advise on the long-term effects of a conviction and help you make smart decisions on how to plea. Accepting a conviction on lesser charges may not be the best decision if it impacts your career's future.

Also, he or she can determine the depth of your case. If the evidence presented against you is very strong, your attorney may advise you to accept the prosecutor's deal and often you'll get your charges or jail term reduced.

Giving you the best legal representation

If your case has gone to court, then you must prove your innocence to a judge or jury. If you've never attended a court session or represented yourself before, you may not even know where to start. The legal justice system has lots of loopholes and you may land yourself in trouble with the judge. When a prosecutor sees that you're inexperienced, he may even take that chance to manipulate the case and convince the court that you're guilty, even if you're innocent. This may not work in your favor, and you can find yourself facing serious consequences.

But when an expert Orange County DUI lawyer represents you, you increase your chances of getting a favorable outcome. They'll present all the evidence needed and try to prove your innocence. Remember that Orange County DUI lawyers have worked on lots of cases like yours and thus, they've gained the experience on what to do in each part of the process. Also, they're well known by judges and prosecutors, and this influence can go a long way to get your case expunged or your punishment lessened. Also, an attorney can ensure that your license isn't suspended.

We all make mistakes and driving under the influence is a huge one. If you're charged with this crime, hire a DUI attorney as soon as possible. He will evaluate your case and give you the best legal representation for a favorable outcome. Don't risk going on it alone; get the help of an experienced DUI lawyer in Orange County.

How To Hire The Best DUI Lawyers In Orange County

If you’ve been convicted for driving under the influence of alcohol or any other drug, you will probably need a DUI lawyer. For the uninitiated, these lawyers are seasoned professionals who manage your case and work on reducing your sentence. If you are a first-time offender, they might also offer added resources that’ll help you deal with the situation better. From handling the paperwork to negotiating with the prosecutor- these professionals do it all. But how exactly do you find the best Orange County DUI lawyer? What features should you look for while hiring these professionals? Well, these are some of the questions we are going to explore over the next few sections. 

Do Proper Research

The best orange county DUI lawyers won’t just offer superficial advice. Instead, they will hear you out, try to understand your situation and will thoroughly assist you during the court proceedings. They wouldn’t reprimand you for your behavior and offer an unbiased suggestion instead. To settle with the best DUI professional, it is important to do proper research. Look up online about the various Best DUI lawyers in orange county and check the kind of services they offer. You can also look this up at your local court. If you are still unsure, ask for suggestions from your reliable friends and family. Hear what they have to suggest and recommend you. This will help you understand, who exactly you should hire for the job.

List Them Out

If you want to organize your search better, list the potential lawyers you are looking to hire. You can make an Excel spreadsheet or follow a written log whereby you have a list of the attorneys you are looking to consult. This list should include their full name, their specialty/ area of expertise, contact number, email address, and physical address. In case you’ve already had a conversation with them and have an idea about their fees, add an extra column for the cost, where you include these expenses.

Check Their Qualification

Just because some professional is practicing as an attorney, it doesn't necessarily mean that they are competent enough for handling your case. For more clarity, check the State Bar Website to find out the lawyers who are listed there. Next, see if those lawyers have any case of malpractice registered against them. Also, check if they were charged for disciplinary actions. Double-check your list and make sure the professionals there are licensed for practicing in your specific state. Also, check if they are familiar with the local laws operating in your area. Unless a lawyer has experience handling local courts, do not choose them for the job. A professional visiting the local courts will have a better understanding of the judges, juries, and prosecutors. This will help them negotiate better.

Remember, these professionals can only offer sound legal advice if they understand how the local law in your state operates. 

Schedule a Meeting

Yes, in our busy lives, arranging a face-to-face meeting may not always be convenient. It takes time from your day and also requires you to drive. However, when it comes to choosing the right DUI attorney, it is imperative to directly consult them over a face-to-face meeting. When you meet your potential attorney, you get an opportunity to know how exactly they work and whether you will get along with them in the first place. It will also help you to ascertain if they are a great fit for your job. 

While participating in these meetings, carry your paperwork along so that your lawyer has complete clarity while you discuss your situation with them. To make things simpler, create a list of important questions and hand it over to them during your meeting. Ask them about the number of DUI jury trials they have handled, their total experience in law (total years of practice), their total number of guilty or not guilty verdicts, and the number of years they have handled DUI defense. While the situation might seem complex in the beginning; in reality, it is easier than ever. Just avoid being nervous and treat this the same way as a job interview. Remember, DUI attorneys can be costly and since you’re hiringthem to get your job done, it only makes sense to ask these important questions. 

Case Management and Legal Fees

Most DUI attorneys use a term called case management' for describing the nature of handling your case. Since you're paying a hefty sum to hire these professionals, it is only important to understand the logistics behind it. Check if the lawyer you are interviewing is going to represent you. If they don't, have an interview with the person who will represent you. Directly ask them what to do when you have queries. Also, know about the usual response time. Finally, check if you will get regular updates of the case. If so, check how often you will get them and also see what they will include. 

The next thing to consider is the billing method. Most DUI lawyers either charge hourly or flat fees. Check with your lawyer about their preferred payment method. Ask them what this rate includes and what it doesn't. Also, ask them about any related legal expenses that you might have to incur. In case you do, request an estimate. Finally, also clarify about the payment options and get to know if the fees (at any event) are refundable. 

Bottom Line

Now that you know what exactly you need to choose the best Orange County DUI attorney, follow our guidelines and select the best professional for the job. Remember, it is completely normal to feel baffled if you are doing this for the first time. But if you ask the right questions and incorporate the tips we suggested, making the choice will be easier. The right DUI lawyer will help you handle the situation better. At the end of the day, you will make a better and more informed decision whereby you can resume your usual activities sooner. Your license will not be revoked, and you can soon use the same vehicle for heading to work and completing errands.

Benefits of Hiring Expert Orange County DUI Attorneys for Your Case

There might be a lot of thoughts going on your mind if you’ve been through a bad DUI (Driving under influence) or mistakenly been assumed for one by the cops. While all of the possible outcomes of this behavior can lead to worse situations in the future, there are qualified DUI attorneys in Orange County to assist you to get through such daunting situations without getting in too much legal trouble. With their expertise in the field, they can really work upon the case and get you moving back to other important things in life.

During the course of investigation for DUI, police officers generally, conduct a few “field sobriety tests” (FSTs). All these typically comprise of around 3 to 5 detection tests and are selected by officers like walk and turn, horizontal gaze nystagmus, single leg stand, finger to nose, fingers to the thumb, rhomb erg (altered attention position), hand pat, alphabet recitation, etc.

Orange County DUI attorneys

Subsequently, if you wish your life to continue normally, you need to create situations where you are the controller. When it comes to Orange County DUI laws, the only help that can considerably reduce any misfortunes is from Orange County DUI attorneys.

California laws allow the defendant’s basic right to trial, which isn’t available in a lot of states in the US. After making the arrest, the state allows defendants with a 30-day trial period for making the arrest. The 30-day window is practical to prepare well for the hearing with the assistance of Orange County criminal law lawyers.

DUI cases are complex and dealing with these requires a lot of patience and research. Thus finding a reliable DUI lawyer should be your first concern if you find yourself stuck in such mishaps. Surely, without the right knowledge and guidance, you don’t want to do it on your own. With their diverse knowledge of DUI laws combined with years of working experience, you can get a fair advantage, making it simpler for you to have a way out.

Reasons to hire Orange County DUI lawyers

Also, an experienced DUI lawyer can forward your case details to the state motor vehicle department at the time of license suspension trials. With immense knowledge on DUI laws, they know about the defenses that carry weight and the ones that don’t. DUI lawyers can present your case in more convincing and effective ways than you.

While dealing with you personally, they’ll allow the courts to learn a lot more about you. They don’t take you like “just another case” and provide a fair solution for every situation. As DUI remains to be a crime in Orange County, California and various other states as well, DUI related cases must be dealt with by expert attorneys knowledgeable in their line of work.

Most of these professional attorneys have already dealt with more complex cases and have gotten bail for the defendants. The trial for driving under influence is quite a complex process with many court sessions. With an examination of the prosecutor’s and presentation of proof by officers can lead to fear and confusion in defendants. Even though some defendants won’t feel the need to hire an attorney, it makes sense to go for the opposite decision and hire a renowned attorney as he would assist you in making situations a lot less complicated and the defendant also knows what can be done before and after that.

How to find a Good DUI attorney?

You can easily have good lawyers with the reference and recommendations from court officials, and through their personal websites. Before you hire an attorney for your case make sure you’ve checked all the essential credentials like their Membership from DUI defense colleges, etc. However, be careful while getting referred to lawyers as the fees can be split with referrals.

Cost of hiring a DUI Attorney

Most defendants are concerned about the costs associated with hiring an attorney, as this varies according to the places and also depends on the severity of your case. The fees of lawyers in little communities can range somewhere around $500- $1500 and at a higher level, many expert lawyers can charge anywhere around $15000 for defending you in a DUI case.

For most citizens’ it’s not common to know about the rules and regulations of the state and what can and cannot put them behind bars. For example, in California, people aren’t allowed to contact an attorney before taking blood analysis and breathing tests. Criminal defense lawyer Orange County professionals are helpful in analyzing the case details and form appropriate strategies to defend against a prosecutor and assist him in notably reducing the charges.

Orange County DUI Attorney

Driving under the influence (DUI) and Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) cases involve defenses which are a complex and multi-faceted specialty in law. You have to select an Orange County DUI lawyer who understands every aspect of the investigation, urine and blood test analysis, field sobriety testing and metabolic systems biology. Only a few attorneys have the legal skills and knowledge that will help you achieve successful outcomes based on careful analysis, logic, legal expertise and insight. Our law firm provides a higher level of representation and guarantees the best results.

DUI defenses require the knowledge of attorneys who have adequate knowledge on the latest defense strategies, law changes and technology. Our law firm has existed for 23 years. In those years, we have specialized in handling driving and DUI matters within courts in Orange County, California. We understand that it is our duty as defense lawyers to remain knowledgeable in the area and to know the judges, prosecutors, and procedures involved to win your case.

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) and Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) are serious charges. Therefore, an attorney should be ready to fight for all your rights and protect your future. You should expect several serious consequences if charged with DUI or DWI, which range from a criminal conviction that remains with you throughout your life and driver license suspension. That is why you should call us immediately because we are the best DUI lawyers in Orange County.

Keep in mind that there is nothing wrong with drinking and operating a motor vehicle - if you are above the age of 21 years in the state, and if your alcohol level is below a .08 or below what impairs your driving. Most individuals believe that drinking and driving is a crime, but it is not.  It would only be a crime if you happen to operate a vehicle after you have lost your normal use of physical or mental faculties or if your blood alcohol level is beyond .08 when driving. 

A few facts about DUI and DWI in the state

-    Intoxication refers to lack of normal use of physical or mental faculties due to the introduction of substances like alcohol, drugs, controlled substances or dangerous drugs or their combination in your body. It also refers to exceeding the legal limit of alcohol concentration.

-    The blood alcohol concentration level in the state for drivers charged with DUI stands at 0.08% during the time of driving.

The differences between DWI and DUI

Most people use the two terms (DUI and DWI) interchangeably and do not know the difference. However, there is a huge difference between the two. DUI is a criminal offense applicable to individuals under the age of 21 years and only if they have detectable amounts of alcohol in their blood systems. DUI charges are usually misdemeanors and are punishable by fines not exceeding $5000 (including penalty assessments and other costs). Therefore, an individual below the age of 21 years and with a detectable blood alcohol level might get charged when the intoxication level is below 0.08%.

An officer who believes that a driver below the age of 21 years is intoxicated might also choose to charge him/her with a minor DWI charge, which is more serious. DWI criminal offenses, for both adults and minors, relates to operating a vehicle while intoxicated. The two charges‚ DUI and DWI‚ both carry the risk of license suspension and fines, and would, therefore, require the services of the best DUI lawyers in Orange County.

Types of DUI and DWI cases

-    Intoxicated assault

-    Intoxication manslaughter

-    DWI‚ as a Felony

-    DUI as a Misdemeanor with priors, an accident, or speeding allegations.

DMV License Hearings

The purpose of Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearings is to help determine whether the court should suspend the license of a driver charged with DWI. The ALR hearings are important and we try to win all of them. In addition to preventing license suspension, winning ALR hearing saves you money and time in the long term. You should request ALR hearing within the first 15 days of your arrest.

An officer might ask you to provide blood or breathe sample after arresting you for DWI. Under the Implied Consent Statute, the officer should physically confiscate your license and offer you two documents if you refuse to provide the sample. The first document will be your temporary driver’s permit while the second is the warning advising you that you only have 15days to contest your driver’s license suspension.

What to do when arrested

After your arrest for DWI or DUI, you should call us immediately so that we can discuss the way forward. We will defend your rights against the charge(s) and represent you at the Administrative License Revocation hearing. We have handled hundreds if not thousands of DUI and DWI cases within the last 23 years and we know that there are many ways to win your case. We will make sure that the officer’s reason for stopping your car was proper and the officers followed the right procedures when collecting blood or breathe samples.

So, for you to be safe, make sure you have our contact information. You can call us at (877) 568-2977 or email us at info@expertlawfirm.com and we will be there to defend you.

Criminal Defense Lawyer Orange County

Have you been arrested and charged with drunk driving in Orange County? If this is your first inebriated offense you should brace yourself for expensive repercussions even if no one was harmed and no property was damaged.

In California, the collective cost of a DUI ranges anywhere between $11,000 and $30,000. Once found guilty you will be required to foot a myriad of expenses such as impound fees for your vehicle, alcohol education classes, bail fees, conviction fines, higher insurance premiums, probation fees, license reinstatement fees, and fees to install a pricey ignition interlock device on your car. And that’s not a comprehensive list.

A DUI conviction also poses other serious drawbacks such as potential jail time and having your license suspended. In some cases, a guilty verdict will taint your personal record for life and thus negatively affect your future career prospects and employment.

When dealing with DUI charges it is always advisable to hire qualified DUI attorneys to handle your case. DUI attorneys are highly specialized in DUI laws and can easily identify issues that could lead to your charges getting dismissed or reduced significantly. They can do this in part by challenging the blood tests, breathalyzers, and other alcohol testing procedures.

DUI attorneys can also lessen the hit to your wallet through plea bargains. In some cases, they can also ensure your DUI record is expunged.

In addition, in the event you caused bodily harm to others i.e. someone was injured or killed which caused your DUI misdemeanor to be elevated to a felony, the attorneys can negotiate for reduced jail time, plea for a lesser offence and even mediate a settlement on your behalf to avoid a costly trial and negative publicity.

To ensure you are represented you need to hire the best DUI attorneys to handle your case.

Robert Miller and Associates are among the best DUI lawyers in Orange County. We always provide our clients with top-notch representation.

Here are a few reasons why you should hire us:

1.      DUI Expertise

All our attorneys specialize in handling criminal matters related to drugs and alcohol. These include: providing representation for users charged with driving under the influence, providing representation for alcohol licensing issues for nightclubs and liquor stores, misdemeanor DUI, felony DUI, driving with a suspended license as well as other driving crimes such as hit and run.

2.      Experience

As a top Orange County DUI attorney firm, we have represented thousands of people facing DUI charges over the course of 23 years with excellent results. This gives us a significant advantage over other attorneys who only have a handful of experience.

3.      Reputation

At Robert Miller and Associates we have amassed a solid reputation over the years for being a firm with high representation standards.

This has resulted in significant referrals from the Orange County community. We have also fostered good relationships with numerous prosecutors and other members of the judiciary in Orange County. This works to our clients’ favor as it ensures they receive the best possible results.

4.      Professionalism

We treat all our clients with the utmost respect. We are also friendly in all our dealing with our clients and prospects.

5. Free Case Evaluation

We are among the few Orange County criminal attorneys who offer a free consultation to all our clients. We encourage you to schedule a one-on-one meeting with us to receive accurate advice and to determine if we are best suited to represent you. No matter how complicated your case you can always expect honest feedback from us.

While we understand certain circumstances may only permit consultations via phone, we encourage our clients to try to appear for an in-person consultation. This way we are able to provide comprehensive information and provide more insight into matters that may be difficult to explain via phone or email.

What about the Attorney Fees?

We charge very affordable fees for quality representation.

Once we’ve determined we are a good match we will draw an agreement stipulating the fees required and exactly what you’ll be getting for your hard-earned money.

There are no hidden costs.

We pride ourselves on being among the best DUI lawyers in Orange County. We will work tirelessly to ensure your case is resolved quickly and with the best possible outcome.

Give us a call at (877) 989-7789 or drop us an email to schedule your free consultation today!

We look forward to hearing from you. 

Your DUI Defense attorney in Orange County

At expertlawfirm.com we understand the frustrations that come with a DUI arrest. Our law firm consists of the top minds in the industry with one simple goal: to help our clients get exonerated of the charges they face. What’s more, we have the best DUI lawyer with more than two decades of experience handling DUI matters in Orange County. Although we are well known for our expertise and courtroom skills, we never lose sight of our clients. Even better, we go head-to-head with prosecutors on regular basis and get cases resolved or dismissed with great outcomes. We are also one of the few firms in Orange County that offer flexible payment plans. This means you can hire our services without worrying about money.   

Why hire us?

Our Orange County DUI attorney can handle all levels of criminal charges and traffic violations. Additionally, we give detailed and cutting-edge defense to fight for your driving privileges. Whether it’s your first DUI or you have prior convictions, we’ll examine every detail of your case to challenge the evidence. This is vital because a small mistake could give a chance to the defense attorney to tear the prosecution’s case. Thirdly, we take time to explain the strength of the prosecution’s case, courtroom procedures, and what is likely to happen in your case. You can be rest assured we have the best criminal defense lawyer orange county has to offer to drive you through this ordeal.

What to do after being arrested for a DUI

Being arrested and charged with DUI can be overwhelming, especially when you don’t know where to begin. The first questions that go through your mind are; will I lose my driver’s license? Do I need an attorney? How much is DUI process costs? Therefore, taking the right steps after the arrest will determine the outcome of your trial. The most important step after the arrest is calling our criminal defense lawyer. By working with our attorney, we’ll guide you through the journey by taking the necessary steps to defend yourself from the penalties and allegations you face.

At expertlawfirm.com, we make our services available 24/7 to help clients after their arrests. This is what makes us different from other DUI lawyers in Orange County.

Our criminal defense lawyer can help you reduce or avoid DUI penalties.

Driving under influence (DUI) charges can have a long-lasting impact on your life. With this in mind, it’s vital that you present the best defense lawyer in your case to get the charges reduced. Our experienced attorney never presumes that the client is guilty. Instead, he examines every piece of evidence related to the case. Moreover, he looks for ways to prove all the allegations leveled against you are out of character. By choosing our Orange County DUI attorney, we can act quickly to avoid DMV suspension.

Our clients are the best testament to the quality of our services. Besides that, we work as a team to develop a promising defense attorney for each client. When you come to our law firm you can be sure your case is in capable hands. Plus, we have a proven track record of handling thousands of defense cases.

Our DUI attorney will fight for your rights

If you’ve been arrested under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you deserve the best defense possible. At expertlawfirm.com, we look out for your best interests in a timely and efficient manner. With Orange County pushing for DUI convictions, you need aggressive representation to protect your rights. Over the years, we have successfully represented people throughout the county by getting the best possible outcome in every case. When you contact our defense lawyer fast, you stand a better chance of having your criminal charges reduced.

DUI charges and penalties

If you’re charged with DUI in Orange County, you could face serious penalties. They include suspension of driving privileges, monetary fine, or jail time. While the first driving under influence (DUI)offense is considered a misdemeanor, it can include other penalties like a jail time of up to 6 months, loss of driving privileges for 6 months, or a monetary fine of up to $ 1,000. You may also be forced to complete a drug and alcohol course. However, prior DUI convictions can lead to more severe penalties. 

If you’ve been arrested for DUI, we have the answers at expertlawfirm.com. We understand that no two cases are alike. That’s why we confidently offer unmatched DUI defense tactics for best possible outcome in your case. Our attorneys are able to analyze the circumstances surrounding your case to build the strongest defense.

Contact us today and make an appointment to hire an attorney.

What You Need to Know About An Orange County DUI

Although virtually every state has strict laws to deal with people who drive under the influence, people still drink and drive every day. Different states have varying penalties for DUI offenses. With the dangers posed by driving under the influence, it is easy to understand why some states have very strict penalties even for first time offenders. In Orange County, California, a DUI charge can result in jail time, hefty fines, probation and license suspension.

A DUI is a serious charge, especially in cases where it may have led to an accident. So, if you are facing the charges, you might want to find a good lawyer because it’s not a good position to be in. Although there are government appointed lawyers, it is advisable that you hire a lawyer of your own. You want the best lawyer in your case with so much at stake. Generally, upon a sentencing to a DUI, you’ll most likely receive some category of criminal conviction such as a fine, community service or even a jail term. Also, your driver’s license will most likely be revoked or suspended for some period of time. This will be-determined by the facts of the offense. However, your lawyer can assist you obtain driving privileges with the provision of obtaining a restricted license to drive from and to work.

A First Time DUI in Orange County: What to expect

Though California classifies a first DUI crime as a misdemeanor, do not underrate the serious repercussions of a first DUI conviction or arrest. When charged with your first DUI, it is ideal that you make sure you understand the obligatory sentence and punishments associated with the nature of DUI charge as well as the long- term effects of a DUI sentence.

Effects of a First DUI Misdemeanor

Whenever people pick up the first time DUI, they usually believe they’ll get probation since it is a first DUI misdeed. In Orange County, first time DUI malefactors are placed on some kind of probation. However, the court can still order a person to serve jail time in any county jails as a prerequisite of your probation. Even for misdemeanor misdeeds, you can still be forced to serve jail time.

However, your history can determine whether you can apply for a hardship license or occupational driver’s license of not. Agreeing to probation for any DUI charge normally includes a substantial fine, probation fees, urinalysis fees and court costs. You will be required also to attend and finish alcohol and drug counseling as well as community service hours.

Punishment for a DUI

As we’ve seen, your first DUI charge will most likely be taken as a misdemeanor offense, and you’ll be punished with license suspension, community service, fines and possible probation.

However, there are some factors which can change the nature or level of your charges and result in enhanced penalties or sentences. For instance, if you’ve got an open container in your car, you may be charged still with a misdemeanor. However, your mandatory jail sentence or fine could be increased. In case a kid under age 14 was present in the car while you were driving, Orange County will raise your misdemeanor charge by filing child endangerment charges, or a sentencing enhancement, such that it becomes a more serious conviction, even if you’venever in your life had a previous drunk driving sentence.

In addition to the criminal element of DUI, every DUI has an administrative nature which can just be as hectic as the charge itself. For instance, because the DMV acts separately, before you’re convicted, the State of California can suspend your license automatically if you refuse a breath test or blood test, have a breath or blood level above an .08% alcohol level, or fail to request a hearing at all.

Long- Term Effects of Multiple DUI Convictions

Definitely the most essential aspect of your first DUI offense areavoiding as many of the long- term effects as possible. If you’re placed on probation but unfortunately you do notreceive a final sentence because your conviction was deferred or suspended, you should know that your conviction can still be used later against you, as it remains on your record.

If your record indicates that you have three or more prior DUI arrests, then a DUI offense can be raised to a felony level conviction. Don’t assume that just since your state will consider your charge a misdemeanor that any other state you’re visiting will also do the same.

Situations that May Make You Require a DUI Lawyer in Orange County, California

Impaired or drunk driving is an offense that is taken seriously by judges, due to the fact that it risks the lives of other motorists. This makes the stakes of any DUI case to be quite high. Most people convicted of a DUI offense in California often lose their license for a specific time period, in rare cases will serve a jail sentence, or pay hefty fees and fines to a number of different agencies. Even if the DUI attorney is not able to dismiss the case, he/ she can make it possible to minimize the sentence as much as possible.

Getting Assistance from a DUI Lawyer

Even a first time DUI arrest can still have a lingering effect on your employment opportunities, finances, driving privileges, and criminal history. Make sure that you do not ignore a DUI charge simply because it is your first time DUI offense. Act quickly to consult with any reliable DUI lawyer in your area, who can assist you tackle the numerous issues associated with your driving under the influence charge. Be assured that with a little research on your part, you will be able to secure the best Orange County DUI attorneys.

Advantages of Hiring a DUI Attorney

The first benefit to you that is associated with a reliable DUI attorney in Orange County is that he or she knows the important legal standards and/ or rules (and local court procedures and/or customs) in-depth for prosecution of a person driving while under the influence of alcohol, or drugs.

Despite the fact that a family attorney can easily draft pleadings, he/ she may not be well versed with latest necessities for breath tests, sobriety check points, blood draws, or field sobriety tests. There are defenses unique to DUI cases that even other attorneys are not aware of.

A reputable DUI attorney in Orange County will definitely present your case more persuasively and effectively than you can.

Conclusion – Why Hire the Best?

If you are in Orange County, California, and are facing a DUI, do not compromise your case with a person that is less qualified. You need a person who is not only an expert but also has a proven track record of successfully defending DUI cases.

Arrested for DUI? Here's What You Should Know

As a lawyer specializing in DUI cases in Orange County, California, I see people from all walks of life in what may be their darkest moments. DUI is a serious offense that thousands of people are arrested for every year.

Many DUIs stem from a lapse of judgment and one drink too many. While you may not have intended to cause any harm, the potential was there, and it's better for your sake that you were taken off the street for the night. The next day, however, once you've sobered up and come to the realization of what you’re up against, fear, panic, and uncertainty can quickly set in.

In this article, I’ll discuss a brief overview that I give all of my first-time clients when facing their first DUI arrest. I won’t sugarcoat anything, but I will provide you with the essential non-legalese information you need to know as you prepare to fight the case.

 (Note: Although many of these tips and facts are applicable across the U.S., some of my advice in this guide is specific to my area of operation, Orange County, California.)

First Step: Come to Grips with the Situation

Being arrested, thrown into a holding cell and awaiting trial can be a frightening experience for first-time offenders. The most important thing you can do is remain calm, and think strategically about your defense. Panicking and doing or saying anything erratic while awaiting your court date will only hurt, not help.

Next: Call the California DMV Immediately

While courts will hand down the final sentence regarding fines, jail terms, etc. the DMV is solely responsible for the validity of your driver's license. The California DMV gives ten days (including weekends) to request a Stay and a Hearing before it automatically suspends your license.

For those unfamiliar here are some quick definitions:

Stay: This allows you to continue driving after the temporary 30-day pink slip expires, meaning you can keep driving until the date of your hearing (typically 1-3 months after the arrest).

Hearing: This is your opportunity to present your case to try to prevent the DMV from suspending your driver’s license.

Seek Legal Council

In case you haven't already, you need to speak to a lawyer if you want any chance of beating the case. Around the country, especially in Orange County, prosecutors are notoriously harsh on DUI defendants and will stop at nothing to try and add another DUI conviction to their record. Defending against their tactics is extremely difficult without prior legal knowledge or a good lawyer in your corner.

A DUI attorney will be able to adequately collect necessary evidence that will help your case and will be able to develop winning arguments that shed light into your character, career, or other personal traits that make jurors see you as a person, not just another criminal that needs to be locked up.

First Offense vs. Repeat Offenders

As you can imagine, repeat DUI offenders can expect to face harsher penalties and prosecutors and juries are less likely to give the benefit of the doubt like they would for people with no criminal record.

Now that you’ve contacted the DMV and hired a lawyer, here’s what you’ll be up against:

Maximum Penalties

If convicted of DUI in Orange County, you could potentially face the following maximum consequences:

·         Up to six months in jail

·         Mandatory alcohol education

·         $5,000 in fines, fees, and legal costs

These penalties are not to be taken lightly which is why it is crucial that you take your case seriously and solicit legal representation if possible.

Additionally, you could face more severe consequences depending on the nature of the arrest. Expect to be up against even harsher sentences if any of the following are true of your case:

·         A blood alcohol content (BAC) of .15% or greater

·         The DUI involved an accident even if there were no injuries

·         There was a minor in the car at the time of arrest

·         You are accused of speeding while driving under the influence

·         You are on probation for another case or have a prior DUI charge within the last ten years.

Minimum Penalties

For first-time offenders without any previous convictions, there is some good news. Most of the time, you will be given the minimum penalties if you are convicted and show remorse for your mistake. These are the minimum penalties for DUI in California:

·         Three years of probation

·         Mandatory alcohol education

·         Fines and legal fees that total around $1900.

As you can see, the minimum penalties aren't as severe as the maximum, so it's important to keep that in mind as you move forward in your case. However, you will now have a criminal record so acquittal should be your priority.

Hopefully, this guide has cleared some things up for you and given you hope for your case. If you have been recently arrested for DUI in Orange County, feel free to visit my website for information on my services, qualifications, and how I can defend your case.