DUI
DUI Attorney in Santa Ana
Charged with a DUI, driving under the influence? We act fast to protect your license, challenge the evidence, and defend your freedom.
Understanding DUI Charges in California
A DUI charge in California can come from a simple mistake — a traffic stop, a field sobriety test, or a miscalibrated breathalyzer. But once you’re arrested, the process moves quickly. Within 10 days, you must act to request a DMV hearing or risk losing your license automatically.
In Santa Ana, most DUI arrests involve one or more of the following:
Vehicle Code §23152(a) – Driving under the influence of alcohol.
Vehicle Code §23152(b) – Driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.
Vehicle Code §23152(f) – Driving under the influence of drugs (prescription or otherwise).
Vehicle Code §23153 – DUI causing injury — a “wobbler” that may become a felony.
These cases involve two separate tracks: a criminal court process and a DMV license hearing. Winning one doesn’t guarantee winning the other — so both must be addressed immediately.
What’s at Risk
Even a first-time DUI conviction can have lasting effects:
License suspension from 6 months to 4 years (depending on priors).
Fines and fees that often exceed $2,000 with court assessments.
Mandatory programs such as alcohol education or AA meetings.
Ignition interlock device (IID) installation requirements.
Criminal record that affects employment and insurance rates.
Repeat offenses or cases involving injury can result in jail time or felony prosecution. Acting early helps protect your record, driving privileges, and professional reputation.
What to Do After a DUI Arrest
Do request your DMV hearing within 10 days — or your license is automatically suspended.
Do not plead guilty or accept an offer without reviewing the evidence.
Do keep all paperwork, receipts, and test results from the arrest.
Do not ignore the court date or DMV notice — missing deadlines limits your defense options.
Visit our Been Arrested? page for a step-by-step breakdown of what happens next.
Take Control Before It’s Too Late
DUI charges can feel overwhelming — but you don’t have to face them alone. We’ve successfully defended clients across Santa Ana and Orange County by challenging evidence, negotiating favorable resolutions, and keeping records clean.
Contact our criminal attorneys today for a free and confidential case review. Learn how we can help you move forward — and protect what matters most.
