Frequently Asked Questions in San Francisco, California

Why hire a San Francisco DUI lawyer?
When you are charged with DUI (driving under the influence) you will need a professional on your side who understands the criminal court system, your legal rights and how to help protect you. At our San Francisco criminal defense firm we offer excellent legal advice, guidance, representation and resources to clients facing a possible DUI conviction.  A professional San Francisco DUI lawyer at our firm can meet with you during a case consultation to discuss how our legal services may help you and your San Francisco DUI case.

How long do I have to schedule a DMV Hearing?
In the state of California a person only has 10 days following a DUI arrest to schedule the DMV Hearing. Failure to do so can result in an automatic driver’s license suspension. However, when you hire an attorney at our firm immediately following an arrest we can schedule the DMV Hearing on your behalf and represent you at the hearing in the effort to safeguard your driving privileges.

Do I have to take a field sobriety test?
No. You legally have the right to refuse any type of field sobriety test.  If the law enforcement officer asks you to perform them it is our advice to you that you politely refuse.

What is a breathalyzer test?
A breathalyzer test is administered by law enforcement to estimate a person’s blood breath ratio to determine their BAC (blood alcohol content). It is measures by a device in which the person blows into an instrument that measures the concentration of alcohol in the deep lung region called the "alveoli”.

What is BAC?
BAC, meaning “blood alcohol content” is a person’s blood alcohol ratio. If a person has a BAC over 0.08% while driving a motor vehicle then they may be stopped and charged with DUI.

What happens to my driver’s license if I am arrested for DUI?
If you are arrested for DUI the arresting officer will confiscate your driver’s license immediately at the scene of your arrest. You then must schedule and attend a DMV Hearing in the effort to retrieve your driver’s license and avoid a suspension/revocation of your driving privileges. If you have been arrested for underage DUI most likely your parents will be contacted and be asked to pick you up from the station after you are booked and given a court date.

Will I go to jail for DUI?
When a person is arrested for DUI they will be taken to a local police station and booked. Once a person is booked they will most likely be held in a jail cell overnight until they can sober up. Upon his or her release they will be given special instructions as to when they must reappear in court and face DUI charges. If a person is convicted of the DUI then they can be sentenced to additional jail or prison time along with several other penalties.

What is an Ignition interlock device?
An ignition interlock device is attached to the ignition inside a vehicle and prevents the motor from starting unless the person passes a breathalyzer test that is built into the device.

Have questions about DUI? Contact our San Francisco criminal defense firm today!