El Segundo First DUI Defense Lawyer

Experienced Legal Support for First-Time DUI Charges in El Segundo, CA

Being arrested for a DUI can be one of the most stressful and confusing experiences of your life—especially if it’s your first time. At Gold & Witham, we understand what’s at stake, and we’re here to help you through every step of the legal process. If you’ve been charged with a first DUI in El Segundo, California, it’s crucial to act quickly and get the right legal representation.

As your trusted El Segundo first DUI defense attorney, we will fight to protect your rights, minimize the impact on your life, and pursue the best possible outcome in your case.

Call (800) 716-6791 or contact us online today for a free consultation and speak with an experienced El Segundo first DUI defense attorney.

What is Considered a DUI in California?

In California, driving under the influence (DUI) means operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. The law defines DUI in a few key ways:

• BAC of 0.08% or higher for drivers over 21.
• BAC of 0.01% or higher for drivers under 21 (zero-tolerance policy).
• BAC of 0.04% or higher for commercial drivers.
• Any level of impairment that affects your ability to operate a vehicle safely, even if your BAC is below legal limits.

It’s important to note that DUI charges can result from alcohol, illegal drugs, prescription medications, or even over-the-counter drugs that impair your driving.

What Happens After a DUI Arrest?

When you’re arrested for a first DUI in El Segundo, you’ll go through several legal and administrative steps:

• License Suspension: The arresting officer will typically confiscate your driver’s license and issue a temporary one valid for 30 days. You have 10 days from the date of your arrest to request a DMV hearing to challenge your license suspension.
• Court Appearance: You’ll be given a court date where you’ll be formally charged. It’s highly recommended to have a qualified El Segundo first DUI defense attorney represent you during this process to negotiate and potentially reduce charges.
• DUI Investigation: Evidence may include field sobriety test results, breath or blood test results, dashcam footage, and the arresting officer’s report. An experienced DUI lawyer can challenge the validity of this evidence.
• Possible Plea Bargains or Diversion Programs: Depending on the specifics of your case and your record, you may be eligible for a diversion program or a plea deal that reduces the charges or penalties.

First DUI Conviction Penalties

A first-time DUI in California is typically a misdemeanor, but the consequences are still serious and can have long-lasting effects. Penalties for a first DUI conviction may include:

• Fines and Penalties: $390–$1,000 in fines (not including penalty assessments that can significantly increase the total).
• License Suspension: Up to 6 months, plus a 4-month administrative suspension from the DMV.
• DUI School: 3 to 9 months of mandatory DUI education classes.
• Jail Time: Up to 6 months, although many first-time offenders receive probation instead.
• Probation: Typically 3 to 5 years of informal (summary) probation.
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID): You may be required to install an IID in your vehicle for at least 6 months.

Hiring an El Segundo first DUI lawyer from Gold & Witham can help you avoid or reduce many of these penalties by challenging the evidence and negotiating with the prosecution.

FAQs About a First DUI Offense in CA

Can I avoid jail time for a first DUI in El Segundo?

In many cases, yes. A skilled DUI attorney can often negotiate alternative sentencing such as community service, DUI school, or probation in place of jail time.

Is a first DUI considered a felony?

Not typically. A first DUI is usually a misdemeanor unless it involved injury, death, or you have prior felony convictions.

Will I lose my license immediately?

No, but you only have 10 days from your arrest to request a DMV hearing. Failing to do so will result in an automatic license suspension.

What if I refused a breath or blood test?

Refusing a chemical test can lead to harsher penalties, including a one-year license suspension, even for a first offense.

Can I fight my DUI charge?

Yes. Common defenses include unlawful traffic stops, improper testing procedures, medical conditions, and inaccuracies in field sobriety tests.

Contact an El Segundo First DUI Defense Attorney Today

If you’re facing your first DUI charge in El Segundo, don’t navigate the legal system alone. The consequences can be severe, but you don’t have to face them without help. At Gold & Witham, we fight to protect your future and minimize the damage a DUI charge can cause.

Contact us today at (800) 716-6791 to schedule your initial consultation.