A first offense DUI in California carries a potential jail sentence of up to 6 months, and up to 3 years in state prison if just one other person is even slightly injured. Multiple injuries or death can result in even longer prison terms.
The practice of DUI defense involves more than the Court system. Surprisingly, it is usually not the Court that suspends a driver’s license—it is the administrative arm of the DMV! That is why it is imperative that you retain a lawyer who understands administrative law and regularly appears before DMV hearing officers to challenge license suspension actions
Paul Burglin will fight on both fronts for you—the Court and the DMV! Upon retaining their services, they will immediately demand a hearing with the DMV to contest any proposed license suspension. They will also move to get a “stay order” on any suspension action pending the outcome of the hearing, so that you do not lose your job or miss important appointments and meetings in the interim. Please note that it is imperative that a demand for a hearing with the DMV be made within 10 days of your arrest, so do not delay!
These sentences are not frequently imposed, but many counties do require several days of jail or sheriff-monitored work detail. Your best way to avoid this possibility is to hire a DUI defense attorney who is very familiar with the judges and prosecutorial policies of the county where you are cited. So called standard sentences of 2 or 5 days jail can often be negotiated down to no time in jail, but you need a lawyer who knows how to get these alternative sentencing dispositions.
Paul Burglin regularly practices in Santa Clara, San Mateo,Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, and Sonoma counties. They know the guidelines, policies and politics in these geographical areas.
For specific information on the sentencing practices in each of these counties Call Paul Burglin now at (408) 520-2625.