DUI In California

Reader’s Question:

I was recently charged with DUI here in Sacramento, California. I have so many questions about my DUI case. Where can I go for more help in my case?

Arthur

Sacramento, CA

The best source of information to answer your questions is, of course, a qualified Sacramento, California DUI defense attorney. Your lawyer can basically give you advice about the things that you should do and the things that you should avoid. There are also other resources available for you. You can study California DUI law and blood alcohol analysis in a law library found in law schools and courthouses.

There is also plenty of information found in books such as California Drunk Driving Defense 3rd Edition and Drunk Driving Defense 6th Edition by Lawrence Taylor.

Even though having a California DUI attorney is very helpful and the most certain way for you to see a good (or not so bad) outcome for your DUI case, there are some cases which, while still recommendable, you may be able to squeeze into a good solution on your own with a lot of hard work. However, if your problem is price, remember that there are many experienced DUI lawyers which have low rates or who will work with you on a payment plan.

If you meet one of the following criteria, you probably need a California DUI attorney.

• This is your second case for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Because you’ve already gotten in trouble for this before, you are less likely to be given any slack and will have to fight very hard.
• You were exceptionally intoxicated at the time of your test. If your blood alcohol limit was twice the limit which is legal to drive in the state of California, then your consequences are heavier.
• While you were driving drunk, there was a minor in the car with you.

Even so, sometimes you just can’t get a lawyer, and that’s understandable. While in some cases this spells very bad news for you, in other cases it does not mean that all is lost. If your offense is pretty small time in terms of DUI charges, then you may have a very good chance of winning if you represent yourself. Still, anyone considering going it alone should consult with a lawyer first. Consultations are usually free.

You may be able to go without a California DWI attorney if you meet at least one of the following criteria.

• You find the California DUI laws complicated and need help understanding them and how they apply to your case.
• This is your first DUI offense.
• You need help understanding what consequences you may suffer if found guilty of driving under the influence.
• Your job requires bonding.
• You are working on a degree for a job or a professional license which you will not be able to get if there is a criminal conviction on your permanent record.