Stanislaus County DUI Defense Lawyer

Put a Seasoned Attorney on Your Side

If you've been arrested for driving under the influence, you may be wondering what to expect. You may be feeling overwhelmed and confused about your legal options. You may also be wondering how your life will be affected if you are convicted of DUI. Our firm understands how difficult this time is for you and your family.

You need an attorney who will be able to provide you with the aggressive representation you need while also treating you with respect and understanding. Law Office of John W. Noonan is prepared to do just that. When you need help getting back on track after a DUI arrest, we are just a phone call away.

If you are facing a DUI charge in Stanislaus County, we can help. Contact our law firm at (925) 886-4281 or send us a message online.

What Is Involved in a DUI Case?

In California, it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or higher or to drive while you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you are pulled over for suspicion of driving under the influence, the police officer will likely ask you to take a preliminary breath test or a chemical test. If you do take the test and fail it, the police officer will likely arrest you and take you to the police station.

The penalties associated with a conviction can include:

License Suspension: The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may suspend your driver's license for a period of six months to several years, depending on the nature of your offense and your driving history.
Fines: Monetary fines for a DUI conviction can total thousands of dollars. These fines increase with subsequent offenses.
Jail Time: A DUI conviction can lead to imprisonment. First-time offenders can face up to six months in jail, and this duration increases with repeat offenses.
Probation: A probation period may be imposed instead of, or in addition to, jail time.
Ignition Interlock Device (IID): After a DUI offense, the court may require you to install an IID in your vehicle. This device prevents the vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected in the driver's breath.

Refusing a Chemical Test in California

California operates under an "implied consent" law, which means that when you apply for a driver's license, you automatically agree to submit to chemical testing if you are lawfully arrested for a suspected DUI. This could be a blood, breath, or urine test. Refusing to submit to a chemical test when lawfully arrested for a DUI in California can have serious consequences.

This refusal can be used against you in court and lead to:

License Suspension: Refusing a chemical test can result in a one-year automatic suspension of your driver's license for a first offense. For second and subsequent refusals within a ten-year period, the suspension periods could extend to two or three years.
Increased Penalties: If convicted of a DUI, a refusal to take a chemical test can result in more severe penalties compared to those who took the test. This might include longer terms of imprisonment and more extensive DUI program requirements.
Mandatory Jail Time: If you refuse a chemical test and are subsequently convicted of a DUI, California law mandates a minimum jail term, which is added to the DUI penalties.

Please note that these penalties are in addition to any you might face if convicted of a DUI. Always consult with a knowledgeable DUI defense attorney if you are arrested and have concerns about chemical testing.

Contact Our Firm for Compassionate Advocacy

There are several different approaches to DUI defense. For example, you may be able to argue that the police officer did not follow proper protocol when administering a field sobriety test or that the traffic stop was unlawful. You may also be able to challenge the results of a breath or blood test. Regardless of the circumstances of your case, if you have been arrested for DUI, you should consult with an attorney as soon as possible.

Working with an attorney can help you:

Understand the charges brought against you
Uncover all your legal options
Present a strong defense in court
Gain peace of mind knowing there is someone on your side

Founding Attorney John W. Noonan has been helping clients deal with DUI charges for decades. As a former prosecutor, he understands how these cases are handled and the strategies many prosecutors use. Our team is ready and willing to work tirelessly to help you build a strong defense.

Facing a DUI in Stanislaus County? The Law Office of John W. Noonan is standing by to help you now.