Long Beach DUI Lawyers 

Common Questions About DUI Laws 

What Are The Penalties for a First-Time DUI Offense?

In Long Beach, first-time DUI offenders may face a range of penalties, combining both administrative and criminal repercussions. These include fines, which can increase substantially with penalty assessments. Offenders are also typically required to complete a DUI education program, which varies in length depending on BAC levels and specific court mandates.

Additionally, the court may impose probation and a mandatory driver’s license suspension of at least six months. However, it's often possible to obtain a restricted license to maintain employment and personal responsibilities. Serving an informal probation period may also require attendance at Alcoholics Anonymous meetings or similar rehabilitation programs. These measures aim to deter repeat offenses and encourage rehabilitation, highlighting the importance of having a knowledgeable DUI attorney to navigate these complex ramifications.

How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record in California?

In California, a DUI conviction stays on your driving record for ten years. This period is counted from the date of arrest, and during this time, the DUI can be considered as a prior offense if you're arrested for another DUI. It's important to note that DUIs also appear on your criminal record unless expunged, which requires fulfilling probation and not reoffending during the probationary period.

Expungement simply removes the conviction from your public record, though the offense may still be under consideration for penalty enhancements on future charges. The enduring impact of a DUI on both your personal and professional life underscores the benefit of legal support in minimizing consequences and exploring options for record clearing.

Can a DUI Be Reduced to a Lesser Charge?

A DUI charge can potentially be reduced to a lesser offense, such as a 'wet reckless,' through plea bargaining. This reduction usually depends on several factors, including the specifics of the arrest, BAC levels, prior record, and legal circumstances. Negotiations for a reduction might result in lower fines, shorter education programs, or lesser license suspension periods.

However, a 'wet reckless' still represents a priorable offense, meaning it counts as a prior DUI if arrested again within ten years. Engaging with knowledgeable attorneys like those at the The Law Offices Of Taylor & Taylor can significantly aid in these negotiations, leveraging insight and experience to aim for the best possible outcome.

Why Choose Our DUI Attorneys in Long Beach?

The firm is guided by the “Dean of DUI Attorneys,” Lawrence Taylor (retired). Mr. Taylor is a UC Berkeley and UCLA Law School graduate, a former Los Angeles County Deputy District Attorney and Fulbright Professor of Law, and is the author of the standard treatise in the field, Drunk Driving Defense (now in its 7th edition after 30 years of publication). 

He has lectured to attorneys at over 200 seminars in 41 states and in 2001 was the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National College for DUI Defense.

Please call us at our Long Beach office for a free initial conference concerning your Long Beach DUI criminal charges and your DMV driver’s license suspension. Our Long Beach DUI attorneys represent clients in Long Beach, Torrance, Downey, Lakewood, Bellflower, Cerritos, Whittier, San Pedro, and throughout Los Angeles County.

Contact us today to get started with our Long Beach DUI lawyers.