Sacramento DUI Lawyer

DUI lawyer John Paul Brennan represents clients throughout Sacramento, El Dorado, Placer, and Yolo Counties in California who have been arrested for driving under the influence (DUI). While driving a car under the influence is the more common occurrence, I also assist clients who have been charged with motorcycle DUI and boating under the influence (boater DUI).

Under the California Vehicle Code, it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or higher. Drivers under the age of 21 can be charged with a DUI for a blood alcohol level of .01 or higher, and commercial drivers can be charged with a blood alcohol level of .04 or higher. Our Sacramento DUI attorneys understand the impact even one conviction can have on your life, and work closely with you to achieve the best possible result.

Time is of the Essence

At the time of a DUI arrest, the officer confiscates the driver's license and provides a revocation or suspension order, which includes a 30-day temporary license. After receiving this order, you only have ten days in which to request a DMV Administrative Per Se (APS) hearing about the license suspension. Requesting a hearing postpones the suspension of your license pending the outcome at the hearing and gives us the opportunity to get an early look at the evidence that police have collected against you. If you do not request this hearing, a process to suspend your license will automatically begin.

Severe Punishments for Driving Under the Influence

The California Vehicle Code includes a wide variety of punishments you might have to face, even if it is only your first conviction. Although the ultimate punishment might depend upon whether you submitted to a breath or blood test at the time of your arrest or agreed to a plea deal, you are likely to face at least one of the following punishments:

  • A fine between $390 and $1000
  • Ten month license suspension
  • A license restriction only permitting you to drive to and from work
  • Between 96 hours and ten months in jail
  • Mandatory participation in an alcohol awareness program
  • Probation

The Sacramento drunk driving lawyers at our law firm know a DUI conviction can also come along with some severe collateral consequences. For example, you might face problems if your job involves driving or when you try to get a new job. If this is your second (or subsequent) arrest within ten years of the first, you face much more severe punishments. These include larger fines, longer jail time, and a longer license suspension. In addition, an ignition interlock device may be placed on your car. You also face harsher punishments if your drunk driving cased an accident or injured someone.

Hire an Experienced Sacramento DUI Attorney

If you have been arrested for a DUI or drunk driving, time is of the essence. It is important to hire experienced Sacramento criminal lawyers who can arrange your administrative hearing and represent you throughout each phase of your defense. To schedule a free initial consultation, contact us online at Brennan Defense today.