DUI Process
Have you been charged with DUI?
If you have been arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you have 10 days from the date of your arrest to schedule a hearing with the DMV to prevent the suspension of your driver's license. The DUI process involves two separate actions, a criminal case and a DMV administrative hearing. If you fail to arrange a hearing date, your license will be automatically suspended. Even if you are acquitted of the charges against you, the suspension can still remain in effect.
You are allowed legal representation at your hearing, which is strongly recommended. Maintaining your right to drive can be extremely important if you use your car for work, to attend school or other important commitments. A San Diego criminal defense lawyer can challenge the validity of the arrest at your hearing, and employ other strategies to prevent the loss of your driving privileges.
DUI Representation in San Diego
It is illegal to drive in this state with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or greater. A DUI arrest will result in an administrative hearing to determine the status of your license, as well as a criminal case. The penalties for a conviction for first-time DUI can include:
- Jail time
- Fines
- License suspension
A first-time DUI offender may be eligible for a diversion program, but a person with multiple DUIs will often be sentenced to jail time. T he Law Office of Marc S. Kohnen has extensive experience in DUI defense and can discuss the best way to address the charges you are facing. Attorney Marc S. Kohnen is a skilled negotiator and litigator that will protect your rights and do everything he can to help you avoid a guilty verdict.
Contact a San Diego DUI attorney for aggressive representation if you have been arrested for drunk driving.