Huntington Beach First-Time DUI Lawyer
Let Us Help You Today
Being charged with a first-time DUI in Huntington Beach can be overwhelming, confusing, and life-changing. At The Law Offices of Taylor & Taylor, we understand the seriousness of DUI charges and the impact they can have on your life.
Our team of skilled DUI lawyers, based in Huntington Beach, CA, is dedicated to guiding you through the legal process, protecting your rights, and working to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Whether this is your first DUI offense or you have questions about the penalties and legal process involved, our attorneys are here to provide you with clear answers and compassionate support.
Contact us today at (562) 330-4173 to request a confidential consultation.
First-Time DUI Penalties
A first-time DUI offense in California carries several potential penalties, many of which can affect your freedom, finances, and ability to drive. Although penalties vary based on the circumstances, the following are the most common outcomes for a first DUI in California:
- Fines and Fees: The base fine for a first DUI offense typically ranges between $390 and $1,000. However, when court costs, penalty assessments, and additional fees are added, the total amount owed can increase significantly.
- License Suspension: For a first DUI, the California DMV may suspend your driver’s license for up to 6 months. However, it is often possible to obtain a restricted license for driving to work, school, or court-ordered programs after serving a suspension period and installing an Ignition Interlock Device (IID).
- Probation: First-time DUI offenders in California are usually placed on probation for a period of three to five years. During this time, you must comply with certain conditions, such as not driving with any measurable amount of alcohol in your system and avoiding further criminal offenses.
- DUI Education Programs: As part of your sentencing, you may be required to complete a DUI education program. These classes range from 3 to 9 months, depending on the specifics of your case and BAC level.
- Jail Time: Although jail time is less common for first-time DUI offenders, it is possible. A first offense can result in 48 hours to 6 months in jail. However, in many cases, an experienced DUI attorney can negotiate to have jail time reduced or converted to community service.
- Ignition Interlock Device (IID): California requires first-time DUI offenders to install an IID in their vehicle in certain cases. This device measures your BAC and prevents the vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected.
FAQs About First DUI in California
Will I Go to Jail for a First DUI?
While it is possible to receive jail time for a first DUI offense, jail sentences are often minimal and may be waived in favor of alternative sentencing, especially for first-time offenders. An experienced DUI lawyer may help negotiate for probation, community service, or other alternatives to jail time.
Can I Keep My Driver’s License After a DUI Arrest?
If you are arrested for a DUI in California, the arresting officer will confiscate your license, and you will be issued a temporary one. You have only 10 days from the arrest date to request a DMV hearing to challenge the suspension. Our attorneys can assist you with this process to improve your chances of retaining your driving privileges or obtaining a restricted license.
What is a DMV Hearing?
A DMV hearing is separate from your criminal court proceedings. It is an administrative hearing held by the California Department of Motor Vehicles to decide if your driver’s license should be suspended following a DUI arrest. Our attorneys are experienced in representing clients in DMV hearings and can advocate on your behalf to retain your license.
Is a First DUI Considered a Misdemeanor?
In most cases, a first-time DUI offense is charged as a misdemeanor in California. However, if there are aggravating factors, such as causing an accident or having a minor in the vehicle, the charge may be elevated. A skilled DUI lawyer can help reduce the impact of these charges.
How Can a DUI Lawyer Help with My Case?
A Huntington Beach first DUI lawyer can be crucial in helping you understand your rights, challenging the evidence against you, and negotiating for reduced penalties. At The Law Offices of Taylor & Taylor, we have extensive experience handling DUI cases and know how to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, which may result in reduced charges or even case dismissal.
Call (562) 330-4173 or contact us online today to learn how we can help you.
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At The Law Offices of Taylor & Taylor, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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"I have come across many attorneys in my life and I have never been treated as well as I have her"
I have come across many attorneys in my life and I have never been treated as well as I have here. Every phone call was returned in a timely and courteous manner. The first consultation was very professional, and my attorney Chris patiently answered every question I had. In situations like this, responsiveness is key and this firm never left me feeling uninformed. I was very satisfied with the outcome of my case and would definitely recommend this firm to anyone in need of a DUI defense attorney.
Anthony D. -
"Truly great team of lawyers. Handled everything the very best they could. Won DMV hearing and got my case expunged for a minor issue, so no record, as it should be! Can definitely rely on them."
Truly great team of lawyers. Handled everything the very best they could. Won DMV hearing and got my case expunged for a minor issue, so no record, as it should be! Can definitely rely on them.
Nick T. -
"They will fight strategically to help you win your case."
These are the best lawyers in LA/OC when it comes to DUI cases. They will fight strategically to help you win your case. My Attoney Chris Taylor was impeccable in many aspects; one he interrogated the officer causing him to fumble with his initial statement; two he is well respected within the courtroom; three he keeps you well informed with everything he is doing and what you may need to do. I can't be more pleased with the outcome of his performance. Thank you God for Taylor and Taylor!
Kendall L. -
"Thankfully Mr. Taylor was able to help fight my case without me ever having to go to court"
You should never drink and drive anywhere, but especially don't do it in la Jolla! Cops down here have nothing better to do then make your life miserable. It is also a college town which adds assault to injury. I should take my own advice because I was recently arrested for a DUI down in La Jolla. A friend of mine referred me to Mr. Taylor's office and I am extremely glad I got into contact with them. I hardly blew over the legal limit and did perfectly fine on the sobriety tests but still was arrested. Thankfully Mr. Taylor was able to help fight my case without me ever having to go to court and I was able to have the charges dropped. Extremely professional law firm with the experience to get you the results you want.
Steven K. -
"Jeanne Normandeau is a great lawyer. She knows how the Riverside court judges work."
Jeanne Normandeau is a great lawyer. She knows how the Riverside court judges work. She will fight for you and will get you the best results after fighting with the judge and DA. She is honest and smart. Never had any problems, answers all questions and is always easy to contact. If you have the money, I recommend Jeanne. The public defender and judge will offer you the worst deal you can get.
Joe E. -
"Christopher always made me aware of what was going on with my hearings, and got me the best outcome possible."
When you need to get a lawyer, you aren't usually in a great situation. I wasn't at least. Christopher and his team never made me feel ashamed, they just help me get through a situation where sh*t happens. Christopher always made me aware of what was going on with my hearings, and got me the best outcome possible. He made things easy to understand, helped with the paperwork, and I while I *hope* to not have to seek his services again, I would highly recommend him and his team for anyone needing a lawyer!
Jessica S. -
"I have practiced for a long time, and can tell you that when these guys walk into court the clients will fair 1000% better!"
This is a top level law firm. The Bible of DUI's comes from this firm! These are the guys other attorneys call when they are stuck on a legal issue or need some guidance. There is no other firm or DUI attorney that has the kind of experience these folks do. I have practiced for a long time, and can tell you that when these guys walk into court the clients will fair 1000% better! Most attorneys do not have trial experience, and if your case must go that direction it's scary to see non experienced dui attorneys walking in with no experience. NOT these guys. Chris Taylor is one of the best trial attorneys I have ever seen; and a force to be reckoned with. The folks I have recommended have had nothing short of positive experiences. A DUI is nothing short of stressful, and can have such an impact on a persons life between restricted or no driving privileges, classes, the cost, and the general stress of it all. This law firm handles all of these issues with such ease, and most important you know you are the most well represented client in any court or DMV hearing
Tania C. -
"Mrs. Normandeau is by far the hardest-working and most diligent attorney I have ever met."
I cannot express enough gratitude towards Taylor and Taylor's Attorney, Jeanne Normandeau. I hired Mrs. Normandeau for a VERY messy DUI case. Not only did she approach it with the utmost professionalism, but also displayed a level of empathy that is unmatched in this profession.
Mrs. Normandeau is by far the hardest-working and most diligent attorney I have ever met. She could be reached if I ever needed to get ahold of her, whether it be email, call, or text. Not only was she available but was willing to talk about any questions I had or work through any legal issues. Mrs. Normandeau's unrelenting work, extensive preparation, and tireless advocacy were instrumental in successfully dismissing my case.Bruce R.