Sacramento Felony DUI Lawyer

Sacramento Felony DUI Attorney

Trying to navigate a felony DUI charge is an overwhelming process. There are serious penalties involved if convicted. You could be facing fines, license suspension, mandatory programs, and even prison time. You don’t have to fight your case alone. If you’ve been charged with a felony DUI, working with a skilled Sacramento felony DUI lawyer is essential to getting you through to the other side.

DUI Statistics in Sacramento

In Sacramento, DUI incidents have continued to escalate. In fact, Sacramento has alarmingly high DUI arrests, with 1.31 DUIs per 1,000 drivers – the highest in California.

To fully understand how severe this issue is, you must understand Sacramento’s risk factors and statistics. From 2020 to 2022, there was an increase in DUI-related crashes involving fatalities and injuries. Fatalities increased by 94.44%, while injuries increased by 13.11%. These statistics speak volumes about the rising risk on the road in Sacramento.

Areas such as downtown Sacramento and Highway 50 are known for their high traffic volumes and higher risks of impaired driving incidents. However, Sacramento is working hard to improve these numbers.

Early Legal Representation

The days following a DUI charge are a crucial time. Making sure to contact an attorney and requesting a hearing with the DMV can have a significant effect on the outcome of your case. Being proactive early may help reduce your charge, and having an experienced attorney on your side can help you negotiate a plea deal.

The Law Office of Conor Bell can be by your side from the very beginning. Facing a felony charge is an overwhelming experience and can leave you feeling uncertain about your future. With years of experience in the Sacramento community, our firm understands the intricacies of California law and how to navigate the local courts.

We offer a free consultation to individuals charged with a felony DUI in Sacramento. You can talk about the particulars of your case during this first meeting, and we can present you with information about your rights and options. You’ll be able to ask questions about the legal process and explore potential defense strategies together. We want you to leave our office feeling more confident and taken care of.

Defending Against a Felony DUI Charge

A strong defense strategy can make a substantial difference in your case. The prosecution has to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were driving under the influence, and your attorney can help spot any weaknesses in their case. Some possible defenses include:

• Challenging the accuracy of breathalyzer and blood test results. These tests are used to measure your blood alcohol content (BAC) but are not always foolproof. If incorrectly administered or if you have certain medical conditions that could lead to incorrect readings, these can be challenged during your case. If your blood test was improperly handled or contaminated, this can also lead to a potential reduction or even dismissal of your DUI charges.
• Challenging the legality of the traffic stop. If the officer who pulled you over didn’t have a valid reason to do so, it can be contested during your case. Officers must have reasonable suspicion or probable cause in order to initiate a traffic stop. Without it, any evidence collected during your stop can potentially be dismissed from the case.
• Negotiating a charge reduction to a misdemeanor. In certain cases, your attorney can determine if your felony charge can be negotiated down to a misdemeanor DUI. It can support your case for reduction if it is your first offense or if the incident did not result in any serious injuries. A misdemeanor carries significantly lesser penalties and can help you avoid prison time.

Being charged with a felony DUI doesn’t automatically lead to a conviction or prison time. The prosecution has to prove their case, and a well-prepared defense attorney can help make a huge difference in the outcome.

FAQs

How Much Does a DUI Lawyer Cost in California?

A DUI lawyer’s cost can vary depending on the complexities of your case. In California, misdemeanor DUIs can range from $2,500 to $5,000, while felony DUIs can exceed $10,000. Court fees can add to your expenses as well. Since felony DUIs can lead to serious penalties, hiring an experienced lawyer is a worthy investment to protect yourself and your future.

Can a Felony DUI Be Reduced to a Misdemeanor in California?

The courts can reduce a felony DUI charge to a misdemeanor in certain circumstances. If the defendant has no priors, they show rehabilitation efforts or the evidence is weak, the felony could potentially be reduced. A misdemeanor results in lighter penalties in fines and jail time. Here at the Law Office of Conor Bell, we can assess your case and determine if a reduction is possible.

Is It Worth Getting a DUI Lawyer in California?

Hiring a skilled DUI lawyer is vital to your case and your well-being. With an experienced lawyer, they can challenge any evidence and negotiate for reduced charges. Often, defendants aren’t aware of their full rights. Your lawyer can ensure your rights are protected throughout the process. Without legal representation, you can face higher penalties and not know how to challenge them. A skilled attorney will assess your unique situation and work with you on a defense strategy.

How Many DUIs Make a Felony?

In California, four DUIs within ten years constitute a felony offense. A DUI can become a felony charge under other circumstances, as well. If a DUI resulted in serious injury or death, it could also be charged as a felony offense. Additionally, once you have been charged with a felony DUI, any subsequent DUI is also charged as a felony, regardless of the number of prior convictions.

Speak to a Skilled Felony DUI Lawyer Today

A felony DUI charge is serious, and you’ll need to seek immediate legal representation for your case. The sooner you act, the better your chances of a favorable outcome will be. If you’re currently facing a felony DUI charge, contact the Law Office of Conor Bell today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.