Van Nuys DUI Attorneys

Aggressive DUI Lawyers in the San Fernando Valley

Being convicted of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated can have serious consequences, including loss of license, higher insurance costs, heavy fines, and jail time. If you were stopped and charged with a DUI in the San Fernando Valley, Williams And Seemen, A Professional Law Corporation is here to help.

Our Van Nuys DUI lawyers understand that good people can make mistakes and that breathalyzers can give false readings. We have the knowledge necessary to challenge the evidence against you, and the ability to help you pursue the best possible outcome.

Schedule a free consultation with our DUI attorneys in Van Nuys at Williams And Seemen, A Professional Law Corporation by calling (818) 536-7776 or contacting us online.

Challenge Drunk Driving Charges With an Experienced Van Nuys DUI Lawyer

Our knowledgeable and experienced criminal defense attorneys at Williams And Seemen, A Professional Law Corporation may be able to have charges thrown out by demonstrating that an equipment or procedural error resulted in an unfair charge.

As your advocate, we will examine whether or not law enforcement followed proper protocol in regard to:

• The stop — Police must be able to demonstrate that they pulled you over based on “reasonable suspicion” that you were acting in violation of the law
• The sobriety test — There are specific rules that police must follow when administering field sobriety tests, including when measuring blood alcohol concentration (BAC)
• The equipment — Breathalyzer machines have provided inaccurate results in the past, and their reliability can be questioned
• The arrest — For an arrest to be valid, an officer must inform you of your Miranda rights
• The evidence — Blood samples and other types of evidence must be stored in certain conditions in order to maintain their integrity

First Offense DUI in California

If you get a DUI for the first time in California consequences for conviction generally include three years of informal probation, completing a first offender alcohol program that consists of a 30-hour class (fee applicable), and other fines. There is no required jail time for a first offense when placed on probation.

What Are The First DUI Offense In California Costs?

• Fine: $390
• Penalty Assessments: approximately $2,000
• First Offender Alcohol Program: about $500

It is possible to be sentenced to jail if certain aggravating factors are present, such as the presence of a minor child in the car or going 25 miles an hour or more over the speed limit on a roadway or 30 miles per hour on a freeway. While negotiable, a first-time DUI sentence may also include required participation in a victim impact panel, community labor or community service work.

In the Los Angeles county, you are also required to have an ignition interlock device to be placed on your car upon a first-time conviction for four months and the fee will add up daily. If you were arrested for DUI, get in touch with Van Nuys DUI attorneys at Williams And Seemen, A Professional Law Corporation -- dial (818) 536-7776 to make an appointment.

Talk to a Van Nuys DUI attorney at (818) 536-7776 or contact us online.

What Is Informal Probation For DUI?

Informal probation, generally included as a penalty for a first-offense DUI, is a lower level of probation that is granted when a person has been convicted of a misdemeanor and is not considered a danger to the community.

Terms of informal probation can include the requirement to take classes, attending treatment for alcohol or drug addiction, completing community service hours, obeying all California laws, among others. While informal probation provides considerably more freedom than formal felony probation, consequences of violating informal probation are still severe.

How To Handle A DUI Stop: Advice From A Lawyer

If you are ever pulled over by the police on suspicion of drunk driving, there are several ways you can help yourself:

• Remain calm and be polite — If you are nervous, police officers may think that you are hiding something or are intoxicated
• Don’t allow a search without a warrant — Any evidence police find in your car can be used to support a DUI conviction
• Take the sobriety test — Refusing to take a test may make an officer more suspicious and lead to an arrest; the results of a test can always be challenged later
• Get a blood test after release — It’s a good idea to measure your BAC with a blood test after arrest so that your attorney can use that evidence to raise possible defenses

If you are arrested and charged with a DUI or DWI, it is wise to contact our Van Nuys DWI attorneys immediately. Williams And Seemen, A Professional Law Corporation can start working on your defense as soon as you enlist our services.

Can You Join the Military with a DUI?

Several factors must be considered, including the severity of the DUI offense, any injuries or fatalities, and the branch of the military.

DUI convictions can make joining the military harder, but they don't automatically disqualify you. You will usually be required to disclose and provide documentation of the DUI offense, including court documents and proof of completion of any required programs, including DUI education or treatment.

• You will then be reviewed by the military and your case will be reviewed based on several factors, such as how long ago the offense occurred, your criminal record, and your potential for misconduct in the future.
• You may need a waiver from the military in some cases if you have a DUI conviction. Case-by-case waivers are granted by military branches at their discretion.
• As a consequence of a DUI conviction, you may find it difficult to obtain jobs and assignments within the military, or to advance or receive security clearances.

For more information about your specific situation and the requirements for enlistment if you have a DUI on your record, speak with a recruiter.

Contact a DUI Attorney for a Free Consultation

If you have been arrested for DUI, a qualified Van Nuys DUI attorneys can advocate for your charges to be dismissed or reduced.

Call (818) 536-7776 now to set up a free consultation with our Van Nuys DUI lawyer.