Reseda DUI Lawyer

Reseda DUI Attorney

A DUI arrest or charge can be a stressful event that carries lasting consequences for your life. If you are currently facing accusations of impaired driving, a Reseda DUI lawyer can help you through this difficult time. An attorney can assist you from the initial arrest through court proceedings and, if necessary, appeal.

About The Law Offices of James E. Silverstein

The Law Offices of James E. Silverstein has spent years representing the people of Reseda, Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Los Angeles, and communities throughout Southern California in DUI cases. Attorney James E. Silverstein has over two decades of experience handling cases ranging from minor accidents to murder charges. His work has been reported in various news outlets, including CNN and the Daily Mail, and he maintains a 10.0 rating on Avvo.

Overview of DUI Cases in California

DUIs remain a serious public safety concern across the country. In 2023, 12,429 people died in alcohol-related traffic accidents, around 34 each day. That same year, there were 17,330 DUI arrests in Los Angeles County, and 6,200 people killed or injured in drunk driving crashes. You don’t have to be driving on the 101, the 405, or any other busy route to be involved in a DUI incident.

Driving under the influence (DUI) is defined under state law as when someone operates a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08%, or is impaired by a drug or substance.

DUI Penalties in California

The penalties for a California DUI are typically determined by the facts of the case and the defendant’s driving history. Common guidelines include:

• First offense: A first offense may result in county jail time of either 48 or 96 hours up to six months, fines of between $390 and $1,000, and a six-month license suspension.
• Second offense: A second DUI within ten years of a first offense may result in jail time of at least 96 hours, ten days, or 90 days and up to a year, a $390-$1,000 fine, and a two-year license suspension.
• Third offense: A third charge within ten years increases county jail sentences to 120 days to one year, three-year license suspension, $390-$1,000 fine, and an 18-month driving under the influence program endorsed by the state.
• Fourth or subsequent offense: A fourth or subsequent DUI within ten years may result in 180 days to one year in jail, a $390–$1,000 fine, completion of a DUI program, and designation as a habitual traffic offender.

Hire a DUI Lawyer

While you may represent yourself in legal matters, it is strongly recommended that you hire a DUI lawyer to assist with your case. Your Reseda DUI attorney can help with all aspects of the proceedings.

A few services The Law Offices of James E. Silverstein provide include:

• Building a defense strategy: Each DUI case requires a different strategic approach. We can review the details and build the strongest defense for your situation.
• Examining the prosecution’s case: When arrested or charged with a DUI, it’s important to have someone review the prosecution’s case against you. Your attorney can highlight faulty reasoning or procedural errors. Mistakes, such as unlawful traffic stops and chemical test inaccuracies, may be grounds for your case’s dismissal.
• Representing you in court: DUI hearings can be overwhelming events. Your lawyer can represent you in all appearances for your case, both in court and in DMV matters.
• Negotiating a plea bargain: If you are guilty or a conviction seems likely, The Law Offices of James E. Silverstein can negotiate with the prosecution for a plea bargain. Plea deals can reduce jail sentences or fines, and can lower the offense that appears on your record.

FAQs About Reseda, CA DUI Law

How Much Does a DUI Lawyer Cost in California?

How much your California DUI lawyer costs depends on the severity of charges against you, the complexity of your case, and the work hours for the firm. A first-time offender with no injured parties and an early plea deal typically costs less than representation for someone with prior convictions and a case involving serious bodily harm. In your initial consultation, your attorney can provide an estimate for your legal expenses.

Can You Go to Jail for a DUI Conviction in California?

In Reseda, Los Angeles, California, the likelihood of whether you go to jail for a DUI conviction is based on your driving record, the parties involved, and any aggravating factors. A first-time offender pulled over with no accidents is less likely to receive imprisonment than someone charged with a fourth DUI and injuring another party in an event.

What Is the Three-Hour Rule for DUI Cases in California?

The three-hour rule for DUI cases in California refers to the time period for the validity of chemical tests. Any tests that result in a BAC of 0.08% within three hours of the defendant driving are presumed to indicate that they were intoxicated while operating a vehicle. Tests with high results conducted after this time period are more prone to error and may be suppressed as evidence in court proceedings.

Do You Need a Lawyer for a DUI Case in California?

California law does not legally require you to have a lawyer for a DUI charge. However, a skilled attorney with experience in similar cases can be a worthwhile investment for your case. They can review the charges against you, build a defense that aligns with your circumstances, and defend against unfair reasoning by the state. If a conviction seems likely, they can negotiate with the courts to reduce penalties, potentially saving your license and avoiding prison.

Speak With a Reseda DUI Attorney Today

Our team at The Law Offices of James E. Silverstein knows how stressful a DUI charge can be. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation to speak with a Reseda DUI lawyer near you. During this meeting, we can learn your story, explain the charges you face, and discuss potential pathways forward in your case.

You may also visit our Calabasas office, located on Calabasas Road, a block north of Calabasas Library.