Sacramento DUI Lawyer
Experienced Defense Against DUI Charges in California
Being charged with a DUI in California can be devastating.
In addition to the expensive fines and potential jail time, you may also be facing the loss of your driving privileges. In addition, a DUI can affect your ability to maintain your job and support your family.
Our DUI attorney in Sacramento knows how stressful it is to deal with DUI charges.
However, we are committed to helping our clients through this challenging process.
At the Law Office of Gilbert B. Vega, we offer straightforward legal representation that puts your best interests first. Our firm serves clients throughout Sacramento County.
Representing Clients in Sacramento County DUI Cases
Our Sacramento DUI attorney thoroughly investigates the events leading up to your arrest.
A breathalyzer test does not mean you are guilty because you failed. Not even burping can alter the results of that exact test, making it a piece of evidence against you that is not entirely trustworthy. Standard field sobriety tests have also proven to be less-than-reliable means of deciding whether or not someone is intoxicated.
Our Sacramento DUI lawyer can challenge the evidence against you and fight for the best possible outcome on your behalf!
Are you facing DUI charges? We can help. Contact the Law Office of Gilbert B. Vega at (916) 249-9417 to speak with a DUI lawyer in Sacramento.
What Happens if You Are Charged With Driving Under the Influence in California?
If you are face charges for DUI, the severity of your charges and the subsequent penalties will depend on the circumstances of the alleged incident and your arrest.
After being pulled over, the arresting officer will decide whether to administer a field sobriety test, a breathalyzer test, or both.
What is a DUI?
If you take a breathalyzer test and your blood alcohol concentration is .08% or higher, you are face DUI charges. Drivers under the age of 21 found with a BAC of even just .01% can be under arrest. The limit is lower for commercial drivers, too, who can be under arrest if their BAC is .04% or more.
Many factors should be in consideration when determining whether a person is intoxicated. While alcohol is the major contributing factor to DUI charges in Sacramento County, other factors are also there.
What are the Penalties for DUI in California?
In California, a first offense DUI (Driving Under the Influence) is considered a misdemeanor crime. The penalties for a first DUI offense typically include:
- A maximum of 6 months in county jail. In some cases, this can be served through community service or electronic monitoring instead of jail time.
- A 6-month suspension of the driver's license. However, in some cases, the offender may be eligible for a restricted license that allows them to drive to and from work or school.
- Completion of a DUI program, which usually takes between 3-9 months, depending on the offender's blood alcohol level.
- A fine of up to $2,000
- Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicle for at least 6 months. The IID is a breathalyzer that the driver must blow into before starting the car. If alcohol is detected, the car will not start.
Regardless of whether this is your first or subsequent DUI offense, you should always take your charges seriously. Remember, a DUI conviction remains on your record for at least 10 years.
If you are facing DUI charges in Sacramento County, it’s important to secure legal representation from a DUI attorney in Sacramento County as soon as possible. Our experienced criminal defense lawyer at the Law Office of Gilbert B. Vega, can investigate your DUI case, determine your legal options, and represent you in court.
Is It Worth Getting a DUI Lawyer in Sacramento?
Yes, it is always worth getting a DUI lawyer in California. Hiring a reasonable DUI attorney can establish a solid criminal defense, prevent your license from suspension, and help get the DUI case dropped for a win in court.
Local Sacramento Resources for DUI Defense
When facing DUI charges in Sacramento, it's crucial to understand the local resources and entities that can impact your case. The Sacramento County Superior Court, located downtown, is where DUI cases are typically heard. Familiarity with the court's procedures and the local judges can be a significant advantage in your defense.
Additionally, the Sacramento County Sheriff's Department and the California Highway Patrol are the primary law enforcement agencies involved in DUI arrests in the area. Knowing how these agencies operate and the common practices they follow can help in challenging the evidence against you.
One of the unique challenges in Sacramento is the prevalence of DUI checkpoints, especially during weekends and holidays. These checkpoints are often set up in high-traffic areas like Downtown Sacramento, Midtown, and near popular venues such as the Golden 1 Center. Understanding the legality and proper procedures of these checkpoints can be crucial in your defense.
Moreover, Sacramento's diverse population means that language barriers can sometimes complicate DUI cases. Our team is equipped to handle such situations, ensuring that all communication is clear and that your rights are fully protected.
At the Law Office of Gilbert B. Vega, we are deeply familiar with the local landscape and the specific challenges that Sacramento residents face when dealing with DUI charges. We are committed to providing personalized and effective legal representation to help you navigate this difficult time.
Contact Our DUI Attorney in Sacramento Today
Most people associate DUI charges with driving under the influence of alcohol. However, you may also face DUI charges if law enforcement officials believe you were driving under the influence of controlled substances like marijuana.
Our DUI attorney in Sacramento is well-versed in all types of DUI charges, and we know how prosecutors approach these cases in California.
Attorney Gilbert B. Vega is an experienced litigator who isn’t afraid to trial. In addition, we offer top-quality legal services.
Contact our Sacramento DUI defense lawyer at (916) 249-9417 today for a free consultation and protect your future.
Client Reviews Speak Volumes
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"Regardless of the charges you are facing, he will treat you as a person and not what the paper says about you."
Hiring an attorney can be a stressful process. Mr.Vega was very helpful right from the very first phone call. He is very down to earth, and was able to explain things so that I understood. My husband was facing felony drug charges, and a possible 6 year sentence. He took the case seriously and made us feel like we mattered and that we had a voice. Regardless of the charges you are facing, he will treat you as a person and not what the paper says about you. He was able to get a very good deal that we didn't think was possible and in fact were told by other attorneys was out of the question. My husband was able to get all charges but one dismissed, 1 year of county jail , with half, credit for time served and probation and the ability to apply for early release via the work project program. That's amazing. He was willing to negotiate to come up with a payment plan to fit the needs of everyone involved. I'm 100% happy with his service and would highly recommend him to anyone.
- Paris -
"Mr. Vega got some charges dropped and got me deal of one year in Sac County with half time"
Mr.Vega was a great beacon of hope when I was incarcerated last June of 2014. I was charged with some serious crimes and was facing 10 years in prison but Mr.Vega got some charges dropped and got me deal of one year in Sac County with half time so I served 6 months. His team and he are the best. I will always be thankful.
- Former Client -
"I would highly recommend Mr. Vega to everyone who is in need of an attorney."
Although it was a bad situation, I had a positive experience working with Mr. Vega. I would highly recommend Mr. Vega to everyone who is in need of an attorney. I thank you so much, Mr. Vega!
- Bill -
"He turned my life around by making sure that all the false charges against me were dropped."
Mr. Gilbert Vega is an excellent lawyer who is compassionate and knows his craft. He turned my life around by making sure that all the false charges against me were dropped. My family and I are very thankful for Gilbert. Because he kept his word and did what he promised... Thanks again Mr. Vega
- Former Client -
"He’s so down to earth and easy to talk to."
I made some stupid choices in 2015 that came back to hunt me January 2016. I was extremely scared of the thought of going to jail for a few years over a stupid choice I made the prior year. As soon as I talked to Mr. Vega, I instantly knew I wanted to hire him to represent me. It’s so unlike me to make such an important decision without doing a lot of research but I knew from speaking on the phone with him that he would be the one to help me. Although I was facing these charges and having to explain to him everything that happened, not one time did he make me feel like a criminal. He’s so down to Earth and easy to talk to. Mr. Vega was able to get me 90 days of house arrest which I was only required to do half of. Forever thankful for your help and would recommend him to anyone who needs an attorney!
- Amber -
"I highly recommend him."
Gilbert was a great help. Things were looking bad. The DA was trying to give me 3 years and a felony on my record. Thanks to Gilbert I was given a misdemeanor until I finish my diversion classes then its expunged from my record. I highly recommend him.
- Nikolas -
"I was really happy with how much compassion and attentiveness he showed through the whole court process."
Mr. Vega and his staff were very supportive and made sure you understood everything about your case. He was available to us 24/7 to answer any questions or concerns we had. I was really happy with how much compassion and attentiveness he showed through the whole court process. I appreciate his help so much and recommend Mr. Vega if you are looking for a confident and dependable lawyer.
- Monique -
"He has the experience and knowledge of the judicial process."
Atty. Vega provided professional service regarding my case. He has the experience and knowledge of the judicial process in the Stanislaus County judicial system. He was able to get an enhancements charge and a traffic citation dismissed. I would recommend him to anyone needing attorney representation in the Stanislaus County area.
- Patrick