Facing a DUI charge in Santa Rosa, CA, can be overwhelming, with potential consequences like fines, license suspension, or even jail time. Fortunately, a skilled Santa Rosa criminal defense lawyer from Conway Law Practice can help reduce DUI penalties by challenging evidence or negotiating plea deals. In this blog post, we’ll explain how our attorneys fight for your rights and work to minimize the impact of a DUI charge.
Understanding DUI Penalties in Santa Rosa
In California, a first-time DUI offense can result in:
- Fines ranging from $390 to $1,000, plus penalty assessments
- License suspension for up to six months
- Mandatory DUI school
- Possible jail time (up to six months)
- Installation of an ignition interlock device
Penalties escalate for repeat offenses or cases involving high blood alcohol content (BAC) or injuries. These consequences can disrupt your job, finances, and personal life, making it critical to seek experienced legal representation.
How a Santa Rosa Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help
At Conway Law Practice, our DUI attorneys employ strategic defenses to reduce or dismiss penalties. Here’s how we can assist:
- Challenging Evidence: We meticulously review the circumstances of your arrest, including the legality of the traffic stop, accuracy of breathalyzer tests, and proper administration of field sobriety tests. If evidence was obtained unlawfully, we may move to have it suppressed.
- Negotiating Plea Deals: In some cases, we can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce a DUI charge to a lesser offense, such as reckless driving, which carries lighter penalties and no mandatory license suspension.
- Mitigating Circumstances: We present factors like a clean driving record or participation in rehabilitation programs to argue for leniency in sentencing.
- DMV Hearings: A DUI arrest triggers a separate DMV hearing that can lead to license suspension. Our attorneys represent you at these hearings to protect your driving privileges.
Why Choose Conway Law Practice for Your DUI Defense?
With decades of experience in Santa Rosa criminal defense, Conway Law Practice has a proven track record of securing favorable outcomes for DUI clients. Our attorneys are well-versed in California DUI laws and local court procedures, giving us an edge in building strong defenses. We take a client-centered approach, keeping you informed and supported throughout the legal process. See our reviews page to hear what our clients have to say about Conway Law Practice. Andrew Conway has also helped clients with theft and misdemeanor charges.
Steps to Take After a DUI Arrest in Santa Rosa
- Contact an Attorney Immediately: Time is critical in DUI cases, as you have only 10 days to request a DMV hearing after an arrest.
- Avoid Discussing Your Case: Refrain from speaking to law enforcement or prosecutors without your lawyer present.
- Gather Documentation: Collect any relevant documents, such as arrest reports or receipts for towing fees, to share with your attorney.
Protect Your Future with Conway Law Practice
A DUI charge doesn’t have to define your future. A Santa Rosa criminal defense lawyer from Conway Law Practice can negotiate to reduce DUI penalties and help you move forward. Discuss your DUI case with us today by calling (707) 608-9942 or complete the contact form below to schedule a free consultation.
Conway Law Practice proudly serves Santa Rosa and Sonoma County, delivering aggressive DUI defense backed by years of courtroom success.