One of the realities is that nobody must ever drive if drunk. The main reason behind this is that alcohol takes away the sense of making decisions and a lot of people drive even when they are drunk. The best way to protect you from DUI charges is to responsibly drink and when drunk book the ride to get back home. However, if you commit the mistake of drinking and driving, the first thing you need to do is to consult your San Diego criminal defense attorney as these are some of the things you can expect when charged:
Booking process
After being arrested for a DUI, you will likely be taken to a police station for booking. This involves recording personal information, taking fingerprints and photographs, and possibly a search of your belongings.
Bail and release
Depending on the severity of the offense and your criminal history, you may be released on bail or your own recognizance. Bail is a sum of money paid to the court as a guarantee that you will appear for future court hearings. Having a San Diego criminal defense attorney by your side can make the bail process hassle-free for you.
License suspension
Your driver's license may be suspended administratively, even before your court date, depending on local laws. You may be issued a temporary or restricted license that allows you to drive under certain conditions, such as for work purposes.
Court appearance
You will need to appear in court for an arraignment, where you will be formally charged with the DUI offense and asked to enter a plea.
Legal proceedings
The legal process will involve multiple stages, including pre-trial motions, negotiations with the prosecutor, and potential plea bargaining. Your San Diego criminal defense attorney may explore opportunities to have charges reduced or dismissed, depending on the circumstances of your case.
Possible penalties
If convicted of a DUI, potential penalties can vary widely depending on factors such as your blood alcohol concentration (BAC), prior convictions, and local laws. Penalties might include fines, probation, mandatory alcohol education programs, community service, license suspension, and even jail time.
Driver's license reinstatement
After serving any suspension period, you will likely need to go through a process to reinstate your driver's license. This might involve paying fees, completing education or treatment programs, and possibly re-taking the driver's test.
It's crucial to seek legal advice from a qualified San Diego criminal defense attorney who specializes in DUI cases to understand the specific consequences you might face based on your jurisdiction and circumstances.
When you are charged in a crime, the only thing that matters is hiring a reliable and experienced criminal defence lawyer for protecting your freedom. Vikas Bajaj is the criminal lawyer that specializes in defending celebrities and widely featured in national and local news.