DUI: First Offenses
If you've been arrested for a first-time DUI in California, you may be feeling overwhelmed, embarrassed, or unsure of what comes next. A DUI is a serious offense that carries both immediate and long-term consequences—but it's also something you don’t have to face alone. As a defense attorney with experience in California DUI cases, I’m here to walk you through what to expect and how legal representation can make a real difference.
In California, a first-time DUI is usually charged as a misdemeanor. That doesn’t mean it’s minor. Even without prior convictions or aggravating circumstances, you could be facing:
Jail Time
You may be sentenced to 48 hours to 6 months in county jail, although many first-time offenders avoid jail entirely through probation and other alternatives.
Fines and Penalties
Expect to pay $390 to $1,000 in base fines, but after court fees and assessments, the total can reach $1,500 to $2,500 or more.
License Suspension
The California DMV can impose a 4-month administrative license suspension, separate from any court-ordered suspension (typically 6 months). In some cases, these can overlap, but they must both be addressed.
DUI Education Program
Most first-time offenders are required to complete a 3-month alcohol education program. If your BAC was above 0.15%, the program could extend to 6 or 9 months.
Probation
You'll likely be placed on 3 to 5 years of informal probation, which may include conditions like avoiding alcohol use, submitting to testing, or attending AA meetings.
Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
To regain driving privileges, you may be required to install an IID in your vehicle for up to 6 months.
SR-22 Insurance
Before your license is reinstated, you must provide proof of financial responsibility (SR-22 insurance)—which often results in significantly higher premiums.
How a DUI Attorney Davis Hewitt Can Help
The criminal justice system is complex, and DUI law is highly technical. That’s why having an experienced attorney can make a substantial difference in both the process and the outcome of your case.
Here’s how I, Davis Hewitt, help clients facing a first-time DUI:
Protecting Your License
You have only 10 days from the date of your arrest to request a DMV hearing to contest the automatic license suspension. I handle that hearing for you, giving you the best chance to keep your license or secure a restricted license.
Minimizing or Avoiding Jail Time
In many cases, I can negotiate alternatives to jail, such as community service, electronic monitoring, or treatment programs—especially for clients with no prior criminal record.
Reducing Fines and Penalties
I work to reduce or eliminate unnecessary fees, challenge enhancements (like high BAC or refusal), and potentially shorten your DUI education requirements.
Challenging the Evidence
Was the traffic stop legal? Was the breathalyzer calibrated? Did the officer follow protocol? I scrutinize every detail of your arrest to identify possible defenses or procedural errors that could lead to reduced charges—or dismissal.
Guidance Through Every Step
From your DMV hearing to court appearances, I offer straightforward legal advice, clear communication, and a strategy tailored to your specific situation.
Don’t Let One Mistake Define You
A DUI arrest doesn’t make you a bad person—but it does require serious action. The right legal representation can reduce the impact on your future, your job, your finances, and your driving record.
If you or someone you care about is facing a DUI charge in California, contact my office today for a confidential consultation. The sooner we talk, the more options you may have.
Davis W. Hewitt
