DUI/DWI Defense Attorney
A good DUI lawyer can keep you out of jail, help you keep your driver’s license, and minimize the consequences of a DUI conviction.
The DMV Will Suspend Your Driver’s License for DWI
If you are arrested for driving while intoxicated, or DWI, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will suspend your driver’s license.
- This administrative process is not related to the criminal proceedings but can cost you your ability to drive.
- You only have TEN DAYS after the arrest to fight that suspension so that you can keep driving.
- We can fight that suspension.
How we will fight Your Driver’s License Suspension
- Demand an administrative hearing so that you can fight the suspension.
- Demand a stay of the suspension so that you can keep driving while the hearing is pending.
- Obtain the evidence the DMV will rely on so that you are prepared for the hearing.
- Represent you at the hearing and fight to retain your driver’s license.
Our criminal defense lawyers will work to get the DUI / DWI charges dismissed. Call immediately at 916-903-3914 to request a free consultation at our Sacramento Law Office and take the first step toward reclaiming control of your future.
DUI Frequently Asked Questions
DUI charges are complicated, even for first-time offenders. When charged with a DUI, you face consequences in the criminal justice system and at the Department of Motor Vehicles. You could be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony. Your defense is likely to involve complex scientific evidence.
It is important to us that you understand everything about your case and know what to expect. We make it a priority to communicate with you and make sure your questions are answered. We are here to help.
You can be arrested for driving under the influence if you are driving and you are:
- 21+ and have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or more
- Under the influence of any drug
- Under the influence of any alcohol and drug
- Under 21 and have a BAC of 0.01% or more
- Driving for a rideshare app and have a BAC of 0.04% or more
Below are potential consequences you may face if charged with a DUI. Many of these can be avoided with the help of an experienced DUI lawyer. The Cohen Defense Group will help minimize these consequences by fighting for your license at a DMV hearing, fighting for a dismissal at trial, negotiating with the District Attorney for fewer penalties, and more.
- Criminal record
- Fines and fees
- Installation of interlock ignition device (IID)
- Jail
- Job loss
- Mandatory alcohol education classes
- Mandatory SR-22 insurance
- Probation
- Suspension of driver’s license
- DUI on your driving record for ten years
- Difficulty getting insured
- Insurance can cost hundreds more per month with a DUI on your record
- If you kill someone while driving under the influence, a DUI can be charged as murder
A DUI can be charged as a misdemeanor or as a felony. A misdemeanor charge is less serious than a felony. A misdemeanor conviction carries a lower level of probation supervision. A felony conviction can result in a state prison sentence, which means you could serve time “behind bars” for drunk driving.
Most DUIs are misdemeanors, but a DUI can be charged as a felony if:
- You seriously injure and/or kill someone
- You have more than three DUIs
- You have a previous felony DUI