Ventura DUI Attorneys

DUI FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

When should I call an attorney?

If you have been arrested for DUI you should contact an attorney immediately. A Ventura DUI attorney can help you understand your legal rights and provide you with the information and guidance you need. Please contact Gutierrez, Curtis & Gutierrez today if you or a loved one is facing driving under the influence charges in or around Ventura, California.

What should I say if law enforcement asks whether or not I have been drinking?

If law enforcement asks you if you have been drinking you should politely refuse to answer and ask immediately to speak to a lawyer. You have the legal right to remain silent and should exercise this right in order to avoid unintentionally incriminating yourself.

What are penalty enhancements?

Depending on the circumstances of a DUI arrest, a person may face penalty enhancements. This means a person would receive harsher DUI penalties if convicted. Some circumstances that can lead to a penalty enhancement include: the presence of a child in the vehicle at the time of the DUI offense, an auto accident which results in injury or death, speeding, a high blood alcohol concentration (over .15%), or a driver operating a commercial vehicle.

How can a lawyer help me?

When a person is charged with DUI they face an uncertain future. Law enforcement will look to pursue the harshest penalties if a person is convicted as they do not want him or her to put further lives at risk in the future. However, when the choice is made to hire a Ventura DUI defense lawyer every effort can be made to protect your future. A lawyer will be well aware of your legal rights and the many DUI defense strategies that may be presented for you or a loved one’s DUI case.

What should I do if I am asked to take a field sobriety test?

If a person is asked by law enforcement to perform a field sobriety test they should politely refuse. Under California law, a person does have the legal right to refuse this type of test and cannot have their driver’s license automatically suspended for doing so.

Are there any issues with breathalyzers & BAC tests?

Yes. There are several legal issues associated with breathalyzers and BAC  tests, as many times a breath or blood test can be administered or read improperly or have issues surrounding maintenance, calibration and lab mix-ups, amongst other problems. A skilled Ventura DUI defense attorney may be able to challenge any breath or blood tests in an effort to have charges either lowered or dismissed.

Arrested for DUI in Ventura? Contact a knowledgeable attorney today!