Even responsible drinkers can misjudge their sobriety after a night out. All it takes is one cop to pull you over for your fortunes to change, with life-altering consequences. If you were recently charged with driving under the influence, you can hire a Chula Vista DUI lawyer to protect your rights and defend you in court.
At Lee Law Group DUI & Criminal Attorneys, we understand how stressful a DUI criminal charge can be. California’s DUI laws are unforgiving, which makes having legal representation so crucial. Our team can come to your defense and take steps to demonstrate that you did not commit the offense or are deserving of leniency.
Why Choose Lee Law Group DUI & Criminal Attorneys?
Facing DUI charges can feel like an overwhelming ordeal, and choosing the right attorney is crucial. At Lee Law Group DUI & Criminal Attorneys, our approach is client-focused, making sure your case receives the attention and advocacy it deserves. With a deep understanding of DUI laws and the complexities of the legal system, we can challenge the evidence and work to fight the charges in your case.
What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to every client. We can take the time to listen, clearly explain your options, and craft a tailored defense strategy to address the unique circumstances of your situation. Our firm combines legal knowledge with tenacity, fiercely advocating for our clients’ defense.
What Happens After I’m Charged With a DUI?
Being charged with a DUI can be an unsettling experience, leaving you unsure of what lies ahead. After the initial arrest, you may face court hearings, potential administrative license suspension proceedings, and other legal challenges.
The consequences of a DUI charge in Chula Vista depend on factors like prior offenses, your blood alcohol concentration (BAC), and the specifics of your case. In most cases, you’ll face an administrative license suspension shortly after the arrest. You may need to request a hearing within a specific timeframe to challenge the suspension. At these hearings, evidence such as test results and officer observations will be reviewed.
As your case moves forward, you may be required to attend regular hearings. The prosecution may make a plea bargain offer that you can choose to accept or not. Depending on the evidence your attorney gathers, your case could be resolved when the charges are dropped, reduced, or altered in a plea bargain.
You also have the right to a trial, although setting a trial date will lengthen your case’s timeline considerably. Throughout the process, an attorney can explain the proceedings, advocate for your rights, and potentially reduce penalties.
Why Choose Lee Law Group DUI & Criminal Attorneys?
Affordable Justice
Everyone deserves a powerful defense. We’re committed to making fierce, effective representation accessible and affordable.
Experienced and Unyielding
With 20 years of legal experience, we’ve honed the instincts, strategy, and grit needed to deliver results—even in the toughest situations.
Client-Centered Protection
When you hire us, you’re under our wing. We take on your burden, reduce your anxiety, and give you the strength of knowing someone has your back.
Strength with Compassion
We combine inner steel with heartfelt empathy. Our clients aren’t just cases—they’re people who deserve to feel protected, supported, and understood.
Relentless Advocacy
We fight for our clients with unshakable determination. Like a pitbull in the courtroom, we don’t back down—ever—until the judge says it’s over.
Immediate and Long-Term Consequences of a DUI Conviction
A DUI conviction in California carries immediate and long-term consequences that can disrupt your life. Beyond fines, court costs, and possible jail time, you may face the suspension of your driver’s license, requiring you to complete a DUI program before reinstatement.
For defendants who drive professionally, the stakes are even higher. A commercial driver’s license (CDL) suspension can threaten your ability to work, leaving you without a livelihood. Additionally, insurance rates may increase significantly, as providers often classify DUI offenders as high-risk.
This can make obtaining or renewing coverage a costly challenge. A DUI conviction may also appear on background checks, complicating job prospects, especially in positions requiring driving or public trust. Understanding the full scope of these consequences highlights the importance of taking legal action to defend against the charges and protect your future.
Can DUI Charges Be Dropped or Reduced?
DUI charges in California might be dropped or reduced, but it often requires a strategic legal approach. An attorney can examine the circumstances of your arrest, identifying potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
If the officer lacked reasonable suspicion for the traffic stop or mishandled field sobriety tests, your charges could be challenged. Similarly, issues with improperly calibrated breathalyzers or violations of testing protocols might lead to reduced charges. In some cases, a skilled attorney may negotiate for a lesser offense, such as “wet reckless,” which carries fewer penalties and less social stigma than a DUI.
Reduced charges can also prevent steep insurance rate hikes and minimize employment challenges, particularly for those who rely on a clean driving record. While not every case results in a dismissal or reduction, having legal counsel can make sure every available defense is pursued.
“Highly recommend! Lee Law Group came through for my family by providing the highest quality of service!”
Ezra F.
“Great Experience!”
“I had a great experience working with Lee Law Group. From the start, their team Lee, Bryan, Jeremy were professional, responsive, and knowledgeable.”
Oscar S.
“5-Stars!”
“I can’t thank Ernest Lee enough for their incredible work on my case. From the beginning, they were professional, knowledgeable, and truly dedicated to getting the best possible outcome for me.”
Brandi H.
“Godsend!”
“Mr. Lee was truly a godsend. From the moment I met him, he showed nothing but kindness, patience, and genuine care for me and my situation. He’s not just a brilliant defense lawyer—he’s someone who truly cares about his clients on a perso”
C D.
“Beyond Grateful!”
“I am beyond grateful for the exceptional legal services I received from Mr. Lee. From the moment I reached out, he provided a level of professionalism, expertise, and dedication that truly made a difference.”
A: The optimal defense against a DUI charge depends on the circumstances. Common defenses include:
Challenging the legality of the traffic stop
Disputing the accuracy of breathalyzer or blood tests
Demonstrating improper police procedures
A skilled DUI attorney can tailor a defense strategy to the case specifics as they fight for reduced charges, dismissal, or acquittal.
Q: Is California Tough on DUIs?
A: California has stringent DUI laws and enforces harsh penalties to deter impaired driving. Offenders may face license suspension, fines, mandatory DUI education programs, and even jail time. Repeat offenses lead to more severe consequences. Courts and law enforcement prioritize public safety, making it essential to have strong legal representation when navigating DUI charges.
Q: How Much Does a DUI Program Cost in California?
A: DUI program costs in California vary depending on the duration and type of program. First-time offenders may pay smaller fees for a three-month program, while longer programs for repeat offenders can cost much more. Fees may vary by county, and additional administrative costs may apply. Financial hardship options are available for some individuals.
Q: How Do I Get Out of a DUI?
A: Getting out of a DUI charge depends on the circumstances and your defense strategies. These may include:
Challenging the legality of the traffic stop
Disputing field sobriety or chemical test accuracy
Presenting proof of medical conditions that could affect test results
Procedural errors by law enforcement can also be a defense. Consulting an experienced DUI attorney is crucial for evaluating your case and identifying the ideal approach to fight the charges.
Schedule Your DUI Consultation Today
Being charged with a DUI does not mean that you will ultimately end up with a serious crime on your record. The quality of your legal representation can be the difference between a favorable outcome to your case or a setback in your life. Once our legal team reviews your case, we can put together a strategy that works to have your charges dropped or reduced.
In some cases, a favorable plea bargain agreement can provide the opportunity to put the entire ordeal behind you. Our firm can be there to guide you and scrutinize the evidence being used against you.
