Experienced DUI Defense Lawyer in Los Angeles

Facing a DUI charge in Los Angeles can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. California law is stringent when it comes to driving under the influence. A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher can lead to a DUI charge, while commercial drivers face an even lower threshold of 0.04 percent. What’s more, even if your BAC is under these limits, you can still be charged if an officer believes your driving was impaired by alcohol or drugs.

The consequences of a DUI conviction can be life-altering—potential jail time, a suspended driver’s license, hefty fines, and a lasting criminal record that may affect your employment and personal life. At The Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we understand how crucial it is to protect your future, and we are here to help. We carefully examine every aspect of your case, from the validity of the traffic stop to the accuracy of field sobriety and chemical tests, ensuring that no detail is overlooked.

Whether this is your first DUI or a repeat offense, or if your case involves aggravating factors such as a high BAC, underage drinking, or an accident, we have the expertise to navigate the complexities of DUI law in California. Our goal is to minimize the impact on your life by building a defense strategy tailored specifically to your situation.

If you’re ready to take control of your DUI case in Los Angeles and work toward the best possible outcome, let an experienced DUI lawyer handle the details so you can focus on your future. Contact our office at (310) 448-1529 to speak with our legal team today. You can also schedule a 15-minute consultation through our online system, and we’ll handle every aspect of your defense, helping you protect your rights and move forward with confidence.

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    What is DUI?

    The permissible Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) levels vary depending on the individual and the circumstances:

    1. General Driving Population: The legal BAC limit for the majority of drivers is 0.08%. Driving with a BAC level at this limit or above is considered illegal and can result in arrest and charges for a DUI.
    2. Commercial Drivers: Those who hold a commercial driver’s license are held to a stricter standard. The legal BAC limit for these drivers is 0.04%.
    3. Drivers Under 21: California enforces a “zero tolerance” policy for drivers under the age of 21. This means that a BAC of 0.01% or higher can lead to a DUI arrest.
    4. Repeat Offenders: Individuals who have been convicted of DUI offenses in the past might be subjected to stricter BAC limits or have interlock devices installed in their vehicles that prevent them from driving if any alcohol is detected in their system

    Type of DUI Crimes We Defend

    If you are arrested for a drug crime, do not speak to the police. Invoke your right to remain silent until your attorney arrives. Here are the types of drug offenses our criminal defense attorney handles:

    • Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
    • DUI with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.08% or Higher
    • Commercial DUI
    • DUI with Drugs 
    • DUI with Combined Alcohol and Drugs 
    • DUI Causing Injury 
    • DUI Causing Injury with BAC of 0.08% or Higher 
    • DUI Causing Injury with Drugs 
    • DUI Causing Injury with Combined Alcohol and Drugs 
    • DUI with Prior Felony DUI Conviction 
    • DUI with Prior DUI Causing Injury Conviction 
    • Underage DUI (Zero Tolerance) 
    • Underage DUI with BAC of 0.05% or Higher 
    • Felony DUI with Prior Convictions 
    • Felony DUI Causing Injury with Prior Convictions 

    DUI Charges and Penalties in California

    First-Time Offenses:

    • Fines: Fines for a first-time DUI typically range from several hundred to several thousand dollars, varying by jurisdiction.
    • Jail Time: Mandatory jail time may be imposed, generally from one day up to six months.
    • License Suspension: Your driver’s license may be suspended for several months to a year.
    • Probation: Probationary periods can range from three to five years.
    • DUI School: Attendance at a DUI education program is usually required for first-time offenders.
    • Other Penalties: May include installation of an ignition interlock device, community service, and restitution for damages.

    Multiple Offenses:

    • Fines: Fines increase with each subsequent DUI offense.
    • Jail Time: Longer jail sentences are imposed for multiple offenses, potentially leading to years in state prison for third or fourth offenses.
    • License Revocation: Repeat offenders may face multi-year or permanent license revocation.
    • DUI School: More extensive DUI education programs are often mandated.
    • Other Penalties: Increased likelihood of ignition interlock device installation, extended probation, and mandatory alcohol or drug treatment.

    Consequences of a DUI Arrest and Conviction in California

    Short-term Consequences:

    • Temporary License Suspension: Post-arrest, your driver’s license is typically confiscated, replaced with a temporary paper license pending your DMV hearing and court outcome.
    • Detainment: You may be detained in a local jail or detention facility, depending on the arrest circumstances.
    • Bail: Release from custody often requires posting bail, which varies in cost.
    • Court Appearance: You’ll be scheduled for an arraignment to respond to the DUI charges.
    • Vehicle Towing and Impoundment: Arrested drivers usually face their vehicle being towed and impounded, incurring daily towing and impoundment fees. Repeat offenders may experience extended impoundment.

    Long-term Consequences:

    • Criminal Record: A DUI conviction becomes part of your permanent criminal record, visible in background checks.
    • Travel Restrictions: Some countries may deny entry to individuals with DUI convictions.
    • Employment Impact: A DUI can lead to job termination and hinder future employment opportunities, especially in licensed professions.
    • Insurance Premiums: Conviction leads to higher insurance rates and the need for an SR-22 certificate, indicating high-risk insurance coverage.

    DMV hearing

    When you are arrested for a DUI in California, you are entitled to an administrative hearing to challenge the suspension of your license by the Department of Motor Vehicles. You must request a hearing within 10 days of your arrest.

    Why Choose The Law Offices of Arash Hashemi for Your DUI Defense?

    When facing DUI charges in Los Angeles, you need a defense attorney with extensive experience and a proven track record. Attorney Arash Hashemi has been an active member of The State Bar of California since December 2002. On his second day as a lawyer, Arash was already in court, participating in a bench trial. Over the years, he has handled a wide variety of criminal cases, from simple misdemeanors to complex felonies, including DUI.

    Arash has also represented thousands of Californians accused of violating their probation or parole and has argued cases before the California Court of Appeals. He is admitted to practice before all California State Courts and the United States District Courts for the Northern, Eastern, Central, and Southern Districts of California. Attorney Hashemi brings a wealth of knowledge, dedication, and a deep understanding of California’s criminal justice system to every case he handles.

    Contact a Los Angeles DUI Defense Attorney Today

    A DUI conviction can impact every aspect of your life—from your ability to drive to your employment opportunities, your freedom, and your future. The penalties for a DUI in California are serious, with consequences that include heavy fines, license suspension, and even jail time. Navigating these challenges without the right legal support can be overwhelming.

    At The Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we understand how critical this moment is for you. With over 20 years of experience in defending DUI cases, we know the ins and outs of California’s DUI laws and are dedicated to protecting your rights. Whether this is your first offense or you’re facing more serious felony DUI charges, we will work tirelessly to explore every possible defense, from challenging the breathalyzer results to scrutinizing the arrest procedure. Our goal is to reduce the impact on your life and secure the best possible outcome.

    If you’ve been arrested for a DUI, don’t face it alone. Contact us immediately at (310) 448-1529 or schedule a consultation with Attorney Hashemi using our secure online system. We will review the details of your case, explain your options, and guide you through every step of the legal process.

    Schedule a Consultation:

    We’re conveniently located in the Westside Towers, serving clients across Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. Let us fight for your rights and help you move forward with confidence. Contact us today.

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    Disclaimer: The content provided here is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is not intended to predict outcomes, as individual circumstances vary and laws may change over time. Those seeking legal advice should consult with a qualified attorney to understand how current laws apply to their specific situation. For detailed legal guidance on the topics discussed, please contact our law firm directly.