Solano County DUI Defense Attorneys

Penalties for a Solano County DUI Conviction

A DUI conviction can bring jail, fines and assessments, mandatory education, probation, ignition-interlock requirements, and restrictions on driving. California also uses a 10-year lookback period when determining whether an offense qualifies as a repeat DUI.

• First Offense. A first misdemeanor DUI can carry up to six months in county jail and a statutory base fine of $390 to $1,000. Assessments, DUI programs, insurance requirements, and other expenses can make the total cost much higher. A conviction generally results in a six- or 10-month license suspension, although restricted-license options may be available. 
• Second Offense Within 10 Years. A second DUI can carry 90 days to one year in county jail, a base fine of $390 to $1,000, and a two-year license suspension. DUI-program and ignition-interlock requirements also become more substantial. 
• Third Offense Within 10 Years. A third DUI can carry 120 days to one year in county jail, a base fine of $390 to $1,000, and a three-year license revocation. The driver is also designated a habitual traffic offender for three years. 

A fourth qualifying DUI within 10 years may be prosecuted as a felony. DUI causing injury can also expose a driver to felony charges and substantially greater penalties.

How We Attack the Government's Case

Every DUI case should be tested for weaknesses in the stop, the investigation, and the chemical evidence.

• The stop. We examine whether the officer observed a traffic violation or had another lawful basis to stop or detain you.
• Field sobriety tests. These are subjective by design. Poor lighting, uneven pavement, footwear, fatigue, and medical conditions can all skew results.
• The chemical test. We examine the calibration and maintenance history of the breath device or the collection, storage, and laboratory records associated with a blood sample. Testing errors and procedural failures can affect the reliability of the reported result.
• Rising BAC. Alcohol may continue entering the bloodstream after driving ends. Depending on the timing, a later test may not accurately establish the driver’s BAC while behind the wheel.
• Chain of custody. A mishandled blood sample, one not stored or transferred properly, can be challenged before it reaches a jury.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I Lose My License Right Away?

Not necessarily. The temporary license issued after an arrest is generally valid for 30 days. Requesting a DMV hearing within the 10-day deadline preserves your opportunity to contest the administrative action before the suspension begins.

Can I Request a DMV Hearing Without a Lawyer?

Yes. A driver may request and attend a DMV hearing without counsel. The hearing is still a formal administrative proceeding involving evidence, police reports, chemical-test records, and legal issues. We can request the hearing, examine the evidence, and represent you during the proceeding.

Is a First DUI Automatically a Felony in Solano County?

A first DUI is usually prosecuted as a misdemeanor. An injury accident can support a misdemeanor or felony charge under Vehicle Code § 23153, depending on the allegations and charging decision. Prior felony DUI history and qualifying prior convictions can also affect how a later charge is filed.

What If My BAC Was Right at 0.08%?

A result close to 0.08% can present meaningful defense issues involving the test’s margin of error, calibration, timing, and whether the BAC was still rising after the person stopped driving.

Do I Have to Answer Questions During the Traffic Stop?

You have to provide license, registration, and insurance. You don't have to answer questions about where you were or what you were drinking.

Call For a FREE Consultation: (916) 610-3558

You generally have only 10 days after receiving the DMV suspension notice to request a hearing. Acting promptly gives us time to address the license proceeding and begin reviewing the government’s evidence.