Southern California DUI Defense Attorneys
Defending Clients Who Are Facing DUI Charges in Long Beach and Orange County
The State of California ranks high in the number of arrests for drinking and driving each year, with nearly 200,000 cases reported annually. Law enforcement has been on the lookout for any signs of intoxication while driving and will pull cars over if they suspect any form of illegal activity.
Our lead Long Beach DUI lawyer, Anthony Falangetti, has been included in the list of California Super Lawyers® for 2012-2025, denoting his hard work and achievement in the field of criminal defense. It is the goal of our firm that every client is treated with respect and dignity throughout the DUI legal process. Dealing with charges for driving under the influence can cause significant fear and stress. Get in touch with our competent and aggressive Long Beach DUI lawyers to better understand how we can assist you during this difficult time.
Which DUI Cases Do We Handle?
Our DUI attorneys in Long Beach and Newport Beach can help you fight the charges for:
Are you facing DUI charges in Long Beach or Newport Beach, Orange County? Call West Coast Defense today at (800) 923-1776 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our DUI defense attorney.
What Are California’s DUI Laws?
Driving after consuming a few alcoholic beverages may not seem dangerous, but studies have shown that even trace amounts of alcohol can impair a driver. Men who weigh about an average of 160 pounds only need two drinks before they start feeling the effects and experience impairment. For women who are generally much smaller, it typically only takes one, maybe two drinks, before putting themselves at risk on the road.
The higher up the BAC spectrum you go, the less aware you become of the speed you may be traveling at in your vehicle, and your concentration is debilitated. People may not be aware that all of these changes are occurring within their nervous system when setting out on the road, and that while they feel fine, they may be intoxicated.
Legally, the blood alcohol content (BAC) level limit is 0.08 percent for the State of California. While this may be the level at which you can be arrested for a DUI, lower levels of BAC can still affect your driving.
At 0.01% to 0.02%:
- Reaction time is lowered
- Attention span is shortened
- Steering may become sloppy.
At 0.03% to 0.05%:
- Standing becomes more difficult
- Response time to emergencies is dampened
- Coordination is challenging
- The time it takes to process basic information is significantly altered.
Any percentage above 0.08 is considered illegal and can result in a DUI charge. Contact our DUI lawyer in Long Beach or Orange County at West Coast Defense if you are facing charges.
What Is California’s Implied Consent Law?
Under California’s implied consent law, any driver who has been lawfully arrested, meaning the arresting officer had probable cause, is required to submit to a chemical test of their blood or breath to determine their BAC. If the driver refuses to submit to testing, they could face having their license suspended for a year, as well as stricter penalties if they are later convicted of driving under the influence.
These laws affect not only California residents but also any motorist in the state of California who is subject to the law and could be held responsible if they refuse to submit to testing. It is important to note that you do not have the right to speak with an attorney before deciding whether to take the blood or breath test. It is, therefore, vital to your defense to contact a Long Beach DUI attorney as soon as possible if you refused to submit to testing.
What DUI Penalties Can You Face in California?
Even a first-time charge for drunk driving can result in serious ramifications. When there are multiple offenses for DUI on a driver’s record, the consequences can increase exponentially. If anyone was hurt or killed by a DUI accident, felony charges may apply that could land the driver in prison for years.
The following is a list of the basic penalties for a conviction of driving while intoxicated:
First Time DUI in CA
- Jail time up to 6 months
- Fines from $390 – $1,000 plus penalties and assessments, which will significantly increase the amount you pay
- License suspension for 3 to 6 months
- An alcohol program for 3, 6, or 9 months
- Possibility of an Ignition Interlock Device installed in the vehicle
Second DUI in CA
- Jail time from 10 days to 1 year
- Fines from $390 – $1,000 plus penalties and assessments, which will significantly increase the amount you pay
- License suspension for 1 year
- An 18-month alcohol program
- Ignition Interlock Device installed in the vehicle
Third DUI in CA
- Jail time from 120 days to 1 year
- Fines from $390 – $5,000 plus penalties and assessments, which will significantly increase the amount you pay
- License suspension for 3 years
- An 18-month alcohol program
- Ignition Interlock Device installed in the vehicle
What Are the Non-Criminal Consequences of a DUI in California?
A DUI arrest doesn’t just affect your court record; it can upend your daily life in ways that go far beyond fines or jail time. Here are some of the most common non-criminal consequences people face in California DUI cases:
- Employment & Professional Licensing
- Damage to your reputation in industries with public trust requirements (e.g., finance, education, healthcare)
- Risk to state-issued licenses, especially in medicine, law, or teaching, following review of the DUI investigation
- Reporting requirements to licensing boards in fields governed by criminal law or ethical standards
- Immigration & Family Impact
- Potential delays or complications in immigration proceedings
- Use of DUI records in custody disputes by other attorneys, especially in cases involving prior criminal charges
- Long-Term Career Setbacks
- Difficulty securing jobs that involve travel, government clearance, or driving responsibilities
- Possible denial of promotions, contracts, or professional opportunities due to the stigma of a DUI
At West Coast Defense, we understand that the legal system doesn’t end at the courthouse steps. Whether you’re fighting a felony DUI, undergoing a DUI investigation, or defending your career, our criminal defense attorneys draw on deep experience from a track record of success.
As a former prosecutor and member of the National Trial Lawyers, Anthony Falangetti leads our team in building aggressive defense strategies that protect your rights and your future.
How Does a DUI Affect a Commercial Driver’s License in California?
Commercial drivers are held to a higher standard under California DUI laws. If you hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL), even a single DUI arrest can threaten your career, future income, and driving privileges. Unlike standard drivers, CDL holders are subject to stricter blood alcohol concentration rules and harsher administrative penalties.
In California, the legal limit for non-commercial drivers is 0.08%, but for CDL holders operating a commercial vehicle, the limit drops to 0.04%. That means one or two drinks could lead to criminal charges and the automatic disqualification of your license. This disqualification may be enforced even if you were driving your personal vehicle at the time of the arrest.
Suppose you are facing DUI criminal charges as a commercial driver. In that case, the California Department of Motor Vehicles will initiate a DMV hearing that could result in the suspension or permanent loss of your CDL. These proceedings are separate from any court hearings related to your criminal case, which means you’ll be fighting two legal battles at once: one in the criminal justice system and another with the DMV.
For many truck drivers, delivery workers, and commercial transport operators, a DUI conviction not only triggers a license suspension but also leads to termination from employment. Employers may be unwilling or unable to retain drivers with a suspended or revoked CDL, even if you are a first-time offender. A DUI on your record can also make it difficult to secure future positions, as most commercial insurers will refuse coverage for drivers with a DUI history.
Because the stakes are so high, working with an experienced DUI attorney is essential. A seasoned criminal defense attorney from a respected DUI law firm can review your chemical test results, evaluate the legality of your stop and field sobriety tests, and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. With the right strategy, it may be possible to successfully defend against a CDL-disqualifying conviction or reduce the charge to a lesser offense.
At West Coast Defense, our law offices provide an aggressive defense for commercial drivers throughout Long Beach San Bernardino County, and beyond. If your livelihood is at risk due to DUI allegations, don’t wait until your driving privileges are revoked. Contact our criminal defense team today to schedule a free consultation with some of the most respected Southern California DUI attorneys practicing today.
What Should You Do After Being Arrested for DUI in California?
Facing a DUI arrest can be disorienting, but the actions you take in the hours and days that follow may directly affect the outcome of your case. Whether this is your first experience with the criminal justice system or not, every step matters.
- Request a DMV hearing within 10 days to challenge your DMV license suspension
- Retain the best DUI lawyer you can find, preferably someone experienced in California DUI cases
- Avoid answering questions from police officers until you’ve spoken with a criminal defense attorney
- Begin collecting any receipts, text messages, or witness contact information that may support your version of events
- Do not discuss the incident on social media or post anything that the district attorney could misinterpret
- If you hold a professional license, be prepared for possible reporting obligations depending on your industry
- Understand that you’re now involved in both an administrative process and a criminal one, both require strong legal defenses
- Focus on preserving your record, protecting your employment, and preparing for court with the help of a skilled DUI law firm
At West Coast Defense, we provide more than just legal representation; we deliver strategy. Our California DUI lawyers serve clients throughout San Diego County, San Bernardino, and beyond. With deep roots in practicing law and insight from working as a former prosecutor, our team is built to challenge shaky procedures, question what qualifies as a lawful arrest, and push back hard when the system gets it wrong.
Your future is worth defending. Let’s get to work.
What are Some Possible Defense Strategies for a DUI in California?
Questioning Proper Protocol
There is a certain protocol that law officers must follow when pulling over and arresting someone with a charge of driving drunk. They must have reasonable evidence to prove why they stopped the driver in the first place. If at any point this protocol is not properly followed, the subsequent evidence against you could become inadmissible in court.
Questioning Testing Results
When performing any breath tests, the arresting officer must wait at least 15 minutes and observe the driver before administering the test. During this time, the individual is not supposed to eat, drink, vomit, smoke, or burp because these can significantly affect the results of a breathalyzer test. These different actions all bring the alcohol up to the driver’s mouth and breath, altering the BAC percentage rate.
The outcome can also be altered by certain health factors and illnesses, such as:
- Diabetes
- Being on certain diets
- Epilepsy
- Asthma
- Reflux diseases
Different chemical compounds within the human body can result from these different issues and make it look as if the driver’s BAC level is higher than it actually is.
Contact West Coast Defense online or call 562-534-7848 today to speak with our DUI attorney in Long Beach, who is knowledgeable on various prosecutor tactics and common ways to defend against these types of accusations.
DUI Defense in California FAQs
Are You Ready To Protect Your Future with an Experienced DUI Defense Attorney?
Being charged with a DUI in California can have serious consequences that can impact your future. It is crucial to have an experienced DUI defense attorney by your side to protect your rights and navigate the complex legal process.
At West Coast Defense, our team of skilled Long Beach DUI lawyers has extensive experience defending clients facing DUI charges in Los Angeles County. We are dedicated to providing aggressive and strategic defense strategies tailored to your specific case.
Why choose our DUI defense services:
- Extensive knowledge of California DUI laws and regulations
- Proven track record of success in handling DUI cases
- Strong negotiation skills to potentially reduce penalties
- Thorough understanding of proper protocol and testing procedures
- Ability to challenge testing results and question their accuracy
- Expertise in possible defense strategies to fight DUI charges
Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for your case, whether it’s getting charges reduced, securing a plea deal, or fighting for an acquittal. Don’t wait, schedule a free consultation with our experienced DUI defense attorney in Long Beach today to protect your future.
Why Do You Need a “You” Centered Defense?
At West Coast Defense, we understand that every legal case is unique, and we tailor our defense strategies to the specific circumstances of your case. Our team of experienced attorneys will work closely with you to analyze the details of your situation and develop a personalized defense plan that gives you the best chance at a favorable outcome.
Our defense strategies may include:
- Gathering and presenting compelling evidence
- Negotiating with prosecutors for reduced charges or penalties
- Challenging the legality of evidence or police procedures
- Building a strong case for trial
With our personalized approach, you can trust that your defense will be in the hands of dedicated legal professionals who are committed to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible result for your case.
Can We Help You Beat Your DUI?
As a former prosecutor, our team is well-acquainted with handling cases of drunk driving from the other side. This has enabled them to learn invaluable information on what the judge is looking for and how to defend against faulty sobriety tests.
If you are facing DUI charges, it’s essential to have a strong defense to protect your rights and future. Contact West Coast Defense in Long Beach and Orange County at 562-534-7848 today for a confidential consultation. Our seasoned DUI defense lawyers understand the complexities of DUI law and will provide the aggressive representation you need to challenge the charges against you. Don’t navigate this challenging time alone; let us fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
Contact Us for a No-Cost Initial Consultation
Discover how our expanded services can benefit you. Contact us today at 562-534-7848 for a complimentary consultation and case review. With our main offices in Long Beach we’re here to represent and support clients throughout Southern California in their diverse legal needs.