Fresno DUI Attorney

Proven DUI Defense Lawyers Serving Fresno COunty, California

A number of factors are involved in a drunk driving arrest, many of them involving the science of testing for blood alcohol content (BAC). At Schweitzer & Davidian, our Fresno DUI attorneys have a thorough understanding of the proper means to determine a driver's BAC, as well as the numerous mistakes that are made by law enforcement officers that can result in charges of driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs being dismissed.

Our Fresno DUI lawyers have received training on field sobriety testing and toxicology reports from some of the sharpest minds in the field. As a result, we are able to review the details of a DUI arrest in California and quickly spot any weaknesses or improper procedure that will assist us in your defense.

In cases where police follow proper procedure and the evidence appears firm, we are often able to negotiate for reduced charges and keep a DUI (also commonly referred to as driving while intoxicated or DWI) off of your driving record if you do not have a previous DUI conviction.

Is It Worth Getting a DUI Lawyer in California?

Yes, a DUI lawyer in California can help you guide the legal system and may be able to reduce or drop your charges. An experienced DUI attorney can review your evidence, advise you on how to proceed, and question the reliability of your breath result. 

They can also use every possible defense to your advantage, including going to court for you. 

What Are The Penalties For DUI in California?

California law states that an individual who operates a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher is guilty of DUI. 

If you face DUI charges, it is important to realize that it is not treated as a minor offense. Heightened awareness of the dangers that drunk drivers present has led to increased penalties in California and nationwide.

Penalties for a First DUI in California

A conviction could result in:

• Your license being suspended or restricted
• Significant financial penalties
• An increased car insurance rate

Subsequent convictions may result in:

• Jail sentences
• License revocation

Fresno DUI Attorneys Who Minimize the Impact of Your Criminal Charges

The defense strategies in DUI cases are as varied as the arrests themselves.

A lot depends on the circumstances of the arrest, including:

• Whether other witnesses were present
• Whether it involved an accident
• Whether anyone was hurt
• Other factors

When charged with a crime, our Fresno criminal defense lawyers take the time to review every detail of your arrest and dig far beyond the police report to ensure that we consider every possible defense strategy. This is especially true when you face DUI charges. Our objective is to minimize the impact that such a charge has on your life.

Accuracy of Breathalyzer Tests

If you have been charged with drunk driving in Fresno, California, you most likely were administered a breath test. Police officers often use the Breathalyzer test to gauge an individual's level of intoxication.

But is the Breathalyzer Test Accurate?

The answer is not as straightforward as you would think.

The Breathalyzer test and other similar tests do not test an individual's blood alcohol content (BAC) level. Rather, these tests estimate BAC based on the amount of alcohol on an individual's breath.

Many factors can skew the results of the Breathalyzer test:

• Medications: Certain medications can affect the results of a Breathalyzer test.
• Other substances: Mouthwash or breath spray, which often contain alcohol, can skew test results.
• Medical conditions: Many medical conditions can affect breath test results. Burping during the administration of the test, for example, can cause artificially high readings. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can also contribute to inaccurate results. Certain diets may also contribute to inaccurately high results.
• Errors in administration of test: Did the police officer who administered the test do so correctly? Errors are not uncommon in the administration of the Breathalyzer test.

If you failed the Breathalyzer test and were subsequently charged with drunk driving, do not lose hope. There may be several ways in which to fight the charges against you, including challenging Breathalyzer test results.

Remember, our Fresno DUI attorney is here for you! Contact our firm online or call (559) 206-2322 to review your legal options today!

How a DUI Case Can Impact Your Life

A DUI case can have profound and lasting consequences, impacting various aspects of your life in significant ways. Understanding the potential ramifications is crucial for individuals facing DUI charges.

• Legal Consequences: Being convicted of a DUI can result in hefty fines, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education programs, and, in severe cases, imprisonment. Repeat offenses often lead to more severe penalties.
• Driving Privileges: A DUI arrest triggers administrative license suspension proceedings. Losing your driving privileges has the ability to disrupt your daily life, affecting your ability to commute to work, school, or fulfill other responsibilities.
• Employment Impact: When a person is convicted of DUI, their job prospects may be hampered or even lost, particularly if they are applying for positions that require a clean driving record or involve heightened responsibilities.
• Financial Strain: Legal fees, fines, and increased insurance premiums associated with a DUI can create a significant financial burden, impacting your overall financial stability.
• Personal Relationships: The social stigma and strain on personal relationships can be substantial. Family and friends may be affected by the consequences of your DUI case, straining trust and creating emotional challenges.
• Professional Licensing: Certain professions require maintaining a clean legal record. Legal, healthcare, and transportation careers may be adversely affected by a DUI conviction.

Navigating a DUI case requires legal expertise to mitigate these potential life-altering consequences. Seeking counsel from an experienced Fresno DUI attorney is essential to building a robust defense and minimizing the impact on various facets of your life.

Understanding the DUI Process: What to Expect

Navigating the legal system after a DUI charge can be overwhelming. At Schweitzer & Davidian, we believe that knowledge is power. Understanding the DUI process can help alleviate some of the stress you may be feeling. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

• Initial Arrest: After your arrest, you will be taken to a police station for booking. This is where your personal information is recorded, and you may be asked to take a chemical test.
• Arraignment: Within a few days, you will appear in court for your arraignment. This is where you will be formally charged and asked to enter a plea.
• Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to challenge the evidence against you, including the accuracy of the breathalyzer test or the legality of your traffic stop.
• Trial: If your case goes to trial, both sides will present their arguments, and a judge or jury will determine your guilt.
• Sentencing: If found guilty, you will face sentencing, which may include fines, community service, or even jail time depending on the severity of the offense.

Each step in the DUI process can significantly impact your future. Having an experienced DUI attorney by your side ensures that you are well-prepared and informed at every stage. Our dedicated team at Schweitzer & Davidian is here to guide you through this challenging time, offering personalized support and expert legal representation.

How Can a DUI Attorney in Fresno Help You?

Engaging a DUI lawyer in Fresno is a crucial step toward safeguarding your rights and interests if you've been charged with a DUI. These legal professionals specialize in DUI law and have a thorough understanding of the complexities of the DUI process in Fresno County. They are equipped with the knowledge and resources to navigate the legal system, challenge questionable evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and present a strong defense on your behalf.

DUI attorneys in Fresno provide a range of services including but not limited to:

• Evaluating the Case: A DUI attorney will thoroughly examine your case's facts and circumstances, identifying any weaknesses or errors made by law enforcement during your arrest.
• Representation in Court: They provide professional representation in court hearings, advocating for your rights and working toward the most favorable outcome.
• Challenging Evidence: They can effectively challenge the validity of breathalyzer and field sobriety test results, bringing forth any discrepancies to weaken the prosecution's case.
• Negotiating Plea Deals: If necessary, DUI lawyers can negotiate plea deals with the prosecutor, potentially reducing your charges or penalties.
• Guidance through the Legal Process: They help you understand the legal process, explaining every detail of your case and the possible outcomes.
• License Reinstatement: If your license has been suspended, a DUI attorney can assist you in the process of license reinstatement.
• Expunging Convictions: They can also help in expunging DUI convictions from your record, minimizing long-term impacts.

Remember, a DUI charge doesn't have to mean a conviction. Having a skilled DUI attorney on your side could be the difference between a criminal record and a dismissal of charges.

DUI Lawyer in Fresno

Time plays a critical component in DUI cases. It is important to contact our team of Fresno DUI lawyers as soon as possible, following your arrest. We are responsive and can come to your location promptly to provide the skilled criminal defense that you need.