Lakewood DUI Lawyer
Lakewood DUI Attorney
A driving under the influence (DUI) charge is a serious offense in the state of California. Though a DUI is typically treated as a misdemeanor, in some cases, it can be charged as a felony. If you have been charged or convicted of driving under the influence, you should contact a Lakewood DUI lawyer to help you with your case.
What Are the DUI Laws in Lakewood, California?
In California, DUI laws include both alcohol and drugs. It doesn’t matter if the drugs are medically prescribed or if it is cough syrup; if your ability to drive is impaired due to drugs, you may be charged with a DUI. If, at any point, an officer suspects you are driving under the influence, they may pull you over and ask you to take a breath, blood, or urine test. If you refuse, the DMV may suspend or revoke your license.
In general, it is illegal to drive if you have been drinking excessively, including cough syrup, if you have taken any drugs that impair your ability to drive, including prescription medications, or if you use any combination of both. Many prescribed medications have labels that inform you of driving risks, and they also warn against taking medications while drinking.
What Are the Blood Alcohol Levels That Constitute a DUI?
Your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) determines if your ability to drive has been impaired. The higher the BAC, the more alcohol in your bloodstream, which diminishes your ability to safely operate a vehicle. The following are the BACs that are illegal for driving:
- 08% or higher if you are over 21 years old.
- 01% or higher if you are under 21 years old.
- 01% or higher at any age for those on DUI probation.
- 04% or higher if a commercial driver’s license is required for the vehicle you drive.
- 04% or higher if you are driving a passenger for hire.
If a law enforcement officer pulls you over and your BAC is at an illegal limit, you can be charged with a DUI. If you are arrested for a DUI, you should call the Law Offices of Christopher J. McCann, APC, to protect your rights and successfully navigate your case.
You may also be charged with a DUI for driving under the influence of cannabis. Though marijuana usage is permitted in California, it is not only illegal to drive under the influence of marijuana, but it is illegal to drive with an unsealed container of marijuana in your vehicle. This also applies to passengers, who are not permitted to consume or smoke it while in the passenger seats. Also, alcohol bottles must be sealed when driving unless they are stored in the trunk.
What Are the Penalties for Being Charged With a DUI in Lakewood, CA?
If you are charged with a DUI in Lakewood, you can spend up to 6 months in jail and/or be required to pay a fine. If your DUI causes serious injury or even death, your charges may be more severe. DUI charges remain on your criminal record for 10 years. This is why hiring a Lakewood DUI Attorney may be wise to possibly get your case dismissed or to negotiate your fines and sentencing.
Other Consequences for Driving Under the Influence in Lakewood
Besides potentially facing jail time or paying fines, here are other consequences of driving under the influence in California:
- Your driver’s license may be suspended or revoked depending on the number of offenses
- You may be required to complete a DUI program.
- You may have to install an ignition device in your vehicle that tests your BAC.
- You may be required to pay license reinstatement fees.
- Your vehicle may be impounded
- You may have to file a certificate of insurance called an SR 22/SR 1P
FAQs
Q: How Much Does a Lakewood DUI Lawyer Cost?
A: The cost of a DUI lawyer in Lakewood varies and depends on several factors. The three main factors that determine the cost are the firm’s location, the lawyer’s experience, and the complexity of the case. Sometimes, DUI cases are straightforward and less time-consuming, thus less expensive. Other times, the case is more complex. For example, an aggravated DUI case will be more costly and require more billable hours.
Q: Is It Worth It to Get a DUI Lawyer in Lakewood?
A: Yes, it is worth getting a DUI lawyer in Lakewood. Not everyone understands their rights when they’re pulled over, arrested, and subsequently charged with a DUI. Not only can your lawyer protect your rights, but they can build a solid legal defense for your case. Most judges will use any evidence against you to give you a DUI charge, so it is important to be armed with a lawyer and ready to defend yourself.
Q: Do I Need a Lawyer for My First DUI in Lakewood, CA?
A: Whether it is your first, second, or tenth DUI charge, you should hire a lawyer in Lakewood, CA. This is because your first charge may result in a person being seriously injured, which substantially increases the charges, leading to a civil case. Civil cases almost always require a lawyer. Also, hiring a lawyer can help you understand what you are up against to potentially avoid future charges.
Q: Can You Get a DUI Dismissed in Lakewood?
A: Yes, you could get a DUI dismissed in California under certain circumstances. If you have no new cases pending or are not on probation or parole, you may get your DUI case dismissed. You may also get your case dismissed for lack of evidence if your lawyer can prove it. Finally, if your case never makes it to court, it may be dismissed.
Contact the Law Offices of Christopher J. McCann, APC
Being charged with a DUI can be life-changing as the consequences involved can be harsh. At the Law Offices of Christopher J. McCann, APC, we have the experience necessary to be your legal advocate and to protect your rights. You do not have to face DUI charges alone. Contact our office today for a free consultation.
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