Redwood City DUI Attorney

Renowned Drunk Driving Defense Across the Santa Clara and San Mateo Areas

Being charged with drunk driving can be an incredibly distressing experience. Drivers often feel fear, shame, and uncertainty about the future. The emotional turmoil can be overwhelming, but it's important to remember that you don't have to face this ordeal alone—a skilled Redwood City DUI lawyer can provide the guidance and support needed to navigate the legal system and protect your rights.

At the Law Offices of Dean Johnson, I have represented hundreds of clients charged with driving under the influence (DUI). California courts take DUI charges seriously and place significant consequences on them. People who are charged with DUI face jail, heavy fines, loss of their driving privileges and increased insurance premiums.

I am a nationally recognized authority on California criminal law. I provide exceptionally efficient representation for DUI charges. DUI case often involve complex issues of science and law. My law firm uses only the top forensic experts, and with 30 years of experience, I understand the science and the law in these cases. I can use my knowledge of the law and science to build a defense against your DUI charges.

Contact the Law Offices of Dean Johnson today at (650) 832-9446 for a free consultation. Expert DUI defense is just a call away. Protect your future and your rights!

What Happens with a DUI in California?

If you're arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in California, you may wonder about the legal process and what to expect next. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what happens with a DUI in California:

• Initial Stop and Arrest: A law enforcement officer may pull you over if they suspect you are driving under the influence. They will look for signs of impairment, such as erratic driving, the smell of alcohol, or slurred speech. If they believe you are under the influence, they will conduct field sobriety tests and may administer a preliminary alcohol screening (PAS) test, such as a breathalyzer.
• Chemical Testing: If arrested, you will be taken to a police station or hospital for a mandatory chemical test to measure your blood alcohol content (BAC). Refusal to take the test can result in immediate license suspension and other penalties.
• Booking and Release: After the chemical test, you will be booked, which includes fingerprinting and photographing. Depending on the circumstances, you may be released on bail or on your own recognizance.
• DMV Administrative Hearing: You have ten days from the date of your arrest to request a hearing with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to contest the automatic suspension of your driver's license. If you do not request a hearing, your license will be automatically suspended.
• Court Proceedings: You will receive a court date to appear before a judge. At the arraignment, you will be formally charged and asked to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. If you plead not guilty, your case will proceed to pre-trial motions, plea bargaining, and potentially a trial.
• Sentencing: If found guilty, sentencing can include fines, jail time, probation, DUI education programs, installation of an ignition interlock device (IID), and community service. The severity of the penalties depends on factors such as BAC level, prior DUI convictions, and whether any injuries or property damage occurred.

Protecting Driving Privileges

It may only take one drink to risk being charged with a DUI. However, the consequences of your charge could drastically affect your life. In addition to the social stigma and embarrassment, your driving privileges could be in serious jeopardy.

The moment you are arrested, the state takes your license. Unless you act promptly, you will lose the right to challenge the suspension. I will represent you aggressively before the Department of Motor Vehicles, just as I do in court.

How an Attorney Helps During the DUI Process in California

Navigating the DUI process in California can be daunting, but a skilled attorney can provide invaluable assistance at every stage. They can provide you with:

• Expert Legal Advice: A DUI attorney understands California's DUI laws and can explain the charges against you, potential penalties, and the best defense strategies.
• Representation at DMV Hearings: Your attorney can represent you at the DMV hearing, presenting evidence and arguments to challenge the suspension of your driver’s license.
• Building a Strong Defense: An attorney will thoroughly investigate your case, scrutinize the evidence, and identify any procedural errors or violations of your rights that can be used in your defense.
• Negotiating Plea Bargains: In many cases, your attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the charges or penalties, potentially avoiding a trial and minimizing the impact on your life.
• Court Representation: If your case goes to trial, your attorney will provide aggressive representation, cross-examining witnesses, challenging evidence, and presenting your case to the jury or judge.
• Mitigating Penalties: Even if you're convicted, an attorney can advocate for reduced penalties, such as lower fines, less jail time, or alternative sentencing options like community service or probation.
• Guidance and Support: Throughout the process, your attorney offers guidance, support, and peace of mind, helping you make informed decisions and understand what to expect.

Aggressive, Tenacious DUI Defense

I am a leading California DUI defense attorney. I am also a former San Mateo County prosecutor. As both a prosecutor and defense lawyer, I have handled hundreds of DUI cases. Although DUI cases are common, they are serious and can be complex. I understand the legal and scientific aspects of a proper DUI defense.

Free Consultation

From anywhere in the San Mateo or Santa Clara areas, please contact my Redwood City office. If you are looking for the best possible criminal defense representation, please call my law firm. I offer aggressive advocacy and unique strategic analysis. I can be reached at (650) 832-9446 for a free consultation, or you can send me an email.