Sacramento DUI Lawyer

Experienced Defense Against DUI Charges in California

Being charged with a DUI in California can be devastating.

In addition to the expensive fines and potential jail time, you may also be facing the loss of your driving privileges. In addition, a DUI can affect your ability to maintain your job and support your family.

Our DUI attorney in Sacramento knows how stressful it is to deal with DUI charges.

However, we are committed to helping our clients through this challenging process.

At the Law Office of Gilbert B. Vega, we offer straightforward legal representation that puts your best interests first. Our firm serves clients throughout Sacramento County.

Representing Clients in Sacramento County DUI Cases

Our Sacramento DUI attorney thoroughly investigates the events leading up to your arrest.

A breathalyzer test does not mean you are guilty because you failed. Not even burping can alter the results of that exact test, making it a piece of evidence against you that is not entirely trustworthy. Standard field sobriety tests have also proven to be less-than-reliable means of deciding whether or not someone is intoxicated.

Our Sacramento DUI lawyer can challenge the evidence against you and fight for the best possible outcome on your behalf!

Are you facing DUI charges? We can help. Contact the Law Office of Gilbert B. Vega at (916) 249-9417 to speak with a DUI lawyer in Sacramento.

What Happens if You Are Charged With Driving Under the Influence in California?

If you are face charges for DUI, the severity of your charges and the subsequent penalties will depend on the circumstances of the alleged incident and your arrest.

After being pulled over, the arresting officer will decide whether to administer a field sobriety test, a breathalyzer test, or both.

What is a DUI?

If you take a breathalyzer test and your blood alcohol concentration is .08% or higher, you are face DUI charges. Drivers under the age of 21 found with a BAC of even just .01% can be under arrest. The limit is lower for commercial drivers, too, who can be under arrest if their BAC is .04% or more.

Many factors should be in consideration when determining whether a person is intoxicated. While alcohol is the major contributing factor to DUI charges in Sacramento County, other factors are also there.

What are the Penalties for DUI in California?

In California, a first offense DUI (Driving Under the Influence) is considered a misdemeanor crime. The penalties for a first DUI offense typically include:

• A maximum of 6 months in county jail. In some cases, this can be served through community service or electronic monitoring instead of jail time.
• A 6-month suspension of the driver's license. However, in some cases, the offender may be eligible for a restricted license that allows them to drive to and from work or school.
• Completion of a DUI program, which usually takes between 3-9 months, depending on the offender's blood alcohol level.
• A fine of up to $2,000
• Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicle for at least 6 months. The IID is a breathalyzer that the driver must blow into before starting the car. If alcohol is detected, the car will not start.

Regardless of whether this is your first or subsequent DUI offense, you should always take your charges seriously. Remember, a DUI conviction remains on your record for at least 10 years.

If you are facing DUI charges in Sacramento County, it’s important to secure legal representation from a DUI attorney in Sacramento County as soon as possible. Our experienced criminal defense lawyer at the Law Office of Gilbert B. Vega, can investigate your DUI case, determine your legal options, and represent you in court.

Is It Worth Getting a DUI Lawyer in Sacramento?

Yes, it is always worth getting a DUI lawyer in California. Hiring a reasonable DUI attorney can establish a solid criminal defense, prevent your license from suspension, and help get the DUI case dropped for a win in court.

Local Sacramento Resources for DUI Defense

When facing DUI charges in Sacramento, it's crucial to understand the local resources and entities that can impact your case. The Sacramento County Superior Court, located downtown, is where DUI cases are typically heard. Familiarity with the court's procedures and the local judges can be a significant advantage in your defense.

Additionally, the Sacramento County Sheriff's Department and the California Highway Patrol are the primary law enforcement agencies involved in DUI arrests in the area. Knowing how these agencies operate and the common practices they follow can help in challenging the evidence against you.

One of the unique challenges in Sacramento is the prevalence of DUI checkpoints, especially during weekends and holidays. These checkpoints are often set up in high-traffic areas like Downtown Sacramento, Midtown, and near popular venues such as the Golden 1 Center. Understanding the legality and proper procedures of these checkpoints can be crucial in your defense.

Moreover, Sacramento's diverse population means that language barriers can sometimes complicate DUI cases. Our team is equipped to handle such situations, ensuring that all communication is clear and that your rights are fully protected.

At the Law Office of Gilbert B. Vega, we are deeply familiar with the local landscape and the specific challenges that Sacramento residents face when dealing with DUI charges. We are committed to providing personalized and effective legal representation to help you navigate this difficult time.

Contact Our DUI Attorney in Sacramento Today

Most people associate DUI charges with driving under the influence of alcohol. However, you may also face DUI charges if law enforcement officials believe you were driving under the influence of controlled substances like marijuana.

Our DUI attorney in Sacramento is well-versed in all types of DUI charges, and we know how prosecutors approach these cases in California.

Attorney Gilbert B. Vega is an experienced litigator who isn’t afraid to trial. In addition, we offer top-quality legal services.

Contact our Sacramento DUI defense lawyer at (916) 249-9417 today for a free consultation and protect your future.