California Vehicle Code 23152(a) – Driving under the Influence/Driving with a BAC of .08 or higher

Navigating the complexities of DUI defense requires a deep grasp of California Vehicle Code 23152(a), proving indispensable for individuals confronted with DUI allegations. At Inland Empire Criminal Defense, located in Rancho Cucamonga, California, our approach combines legal acumen with the specialized expertise of our certified criminal defense attorney, Adam Jackson. With certifications in Standardized Field Sobriety Testing (SFST) and Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement (ARIDE)—the same training that California Highway Patrol and officers undergo—Adam Jackson brings unparalleled insight and defense strategies to our clients.

Comprehensive Overview of VC 23152 DUI Charges

In the state of California, driving under the influence (DUI) is taken very seriously. You can be arrested and charged with a DUI even if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is below the legal limit of 0.08 percent. Factors such as pending chemical test results, refusal to undergo testing, or driving behavior indicative of intoxication can all lead to charges under California Vehicle Code Section 23152(a) VC.

Furthermore, if your BAC is known to be 0.08 percent or higher, prosecutors will likely file a dual charge, including both Section 23152(a) for driving under the influence and Section 23152(b) for driving with a BAC at or above the legal limit. To secure a conviction, the prosecution must demonstrate that you were driving a vehicle while impaired by alcohol to the extent that you could not operate it as cautiously as a sober person would under similar circumstances.

Post-Arrest: Critical Steps to Take after a DUI arrest

Following an arrest for a DUI, immediate action is necessary. You have a mere ten days to request a DMV Hearing, a critical juncture that could determine the future of your driving privileges. Failure to secure this hearing within the timeframe results in an automatic license suspension after thirty days. This hearing not only allows for a detailed examination of the charges against you but also provides our DUI defense attorney with an opportunity to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and argue for the retention of your license.

Understanding the Penalties of a DUI

Navigating the aftermath of a DUI charge in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties can feel overwhelming. It’s essential to understand the potential penalties and consequences you may face, as well as how Inland Empire Criminal Defense can assist in mitigating these outcomes.

1. Misdemeanor DUI Charges and Penalties

For individuals facing their first, second, or third DUI offense, the charges are typically classified as misdemeanors. The severity of penalties can vary significantly, depending on whether there are prior DUI convictions on record. Penalties for a misdemeanor DUI conviction can include up to one year in jail and probation lasting between three to five years. Additionally, the court may mandate participation in an alcohol education program, the duration of which can range from 3 to 30 months, based on the specifics of the case.

Beyond jail time and probation, the court has the discretion to impose further penalties such as community service, substantial fines, restitution, and any other conditions deemed appropriate to ensure rehabilitation and prevent future offenses.

2. Felony DUI Charges

In cases where an individual has accumulated four or more DUI convictions within a ten-year period, the charge escalates to a felony level. A felony DUI conviction carries more severe consequences, including the possibility of up to three years in prison. Such cases underscore the importance of having a skilled DUI defense attorney who can navigate the complexities of the legal system and work towards minimizing the impact on your life.

3. DMV License Suspension

Independently of court proceedings, a DUI charge triggers actions by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Following an arrest for DUI, the accused is notified about an impending license suspension. To challenge this suspension, it is crucial to request a DMV hearing within ten days of the arrest. Failure to do so will result in an automatic suspension of driving privileges.

The duration of a DMV-imposed suspension can vary widely, from four months to a permanent revocation, influenced by factors such as the driver’s age, the presence of a refusal to undergo chemical testing (which automatically leads to a one-year suspension), and the driver’s prior DUI record.

The Inland Empire Criminal Defense Advantage

Expertise and Certification: Adam Jackson’s certifications in SFST and ARIDE place our defense strategies on par with the law enforcement officers who conduct DUI investigations. This unique perspective enables us to scrutinize the validity of field sobriety tests and the procedures followed during your arrest, offering a defense rooted in the same knowledge base as those on the prosecuting side.

Authoritative Representation: Leveraging Adam Jackson’s specialized training, our team expertly navigates both DMV Hearings and court proceedings. Our comprehensive understanding of DUI law, coupled with our ability to contest the prosecution’s case from a position of informed strength, significantly benefits our clients.

Building Trust: Transparency and communication are the hallmarks of our practice. We ensure you’re informed and engaged throughout the process, demystifying complex legal concepts and strategizing together for the best possible defense.

Is a DUI Defense Worth Pursuing?

Definitively, yes. Even cases that appear straightforward can be complex, with numerous potential defense strategies that could alter the outcome significantly. Whether it’s challenging the legality of the stop, the administration and accuracy of BAC tests, or the interpretation of field sobriety tests, Adam Jackson’s specialized training and experience are invaluable assets in your defense.

Specialized Defense for Unique DUI Scenarios

Beyond standard alcohol-related DUIs, our defense strategies encompass charges involving drug impairment and specific considerations for commercial drivers and rideshare operators. Adam Jackson’s in-depth understanding of these distinctions ensures a tailored and effective defense approach.

Begin Your DUI Defense Today

Facing DUI charges doesn’t have to mean facing the worst-case scenario. At Inland Empire Criminal Defense, our approach is tailored to each client’s unique circumstances. Our deep understanding of DUI laws, combined with our expertise in both courtroom defense and DMV proceedings, positions us to advocate effectively on your behalf. From challenging the evidence against you to negotiating for reduced penalties or even dismissal of charges, our goal is to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome.

Charged with a DUI? Schedule Your Free Consultation

For expert DUI defense in Riverside and San Bernardino County, contact Inland Empire Criminal Defense at 909-939-7126. Our Ontario-based team, led by the certified and skilled Attorney Adam Jackson, is prepared to defend your rights and secure your future.