Alameda County DUI Attorney

Consequences of Drunk Driving Arrests and Charges

Alameda County uses federal grant money to finance special patrols and associated costs for the arrest, charge, and prosecution of locals and visitors under California's DUI laws. The county's superior court judges have also approved increased bail amounts for those accused of driving while intoxicated (DWI) under Vehicle Code sections 23152(a), 23152(b), or other similar statutes involving suspected drug use. In addition, if you are charged with a felony DUI or any other type of misdemeanor driving under the influence conviction, your bail for this offense is likely to be set at $50,000.00 or more (bond may be higher depending on circumstances).

At the first court appearance, defendants may face conditions of release such as alcohol monitoring and travel restrictions.

The Alameda County District Attorney is notorious for pursuing DUI charges even when blood or breath test results are below the .08 percent limit. Because individuals might be considered too intoxicated to drive a car safely after only a few drinks, or after legally utilizing marijuana or prescription drugs, it is considered to be ethical and legal for a prosecutor to exercise this discretion. However, it is important to understand that even though a prosecutor may have the ability to press charges, this does not mean they are likely to secure a conviction. Because of this, Alameda County prosecutors can often be convinced to lower a DUI charge to reckless driving or dismiss a case altogether if it makes sense to do so and a defense attorney makes a convincing argument on a defendant's behalf.

It is critical to hire a lawyer who is Board-Certified by the National College for DUI Defense. These attorneys have passed a rigorous examination that covers legal and scientific topics as well as appellate advocacy and a track record of trial experience in DUI defense.

For detailed information about DUI proceedings and defenses in Oakland, please read through the information on this website. You may also purchase a copy of California Drunk Driving Law, a two-volume treatise co-written by attorney Paul Burglin of Burglin Law Offices, P.C.

NOTE FOR NON-RESIDENTS OF CALIFORNIA: If you were arrested for DUI while visiting Oakland from another state, you may be feeling the consequences already. For example, you may have been required to stay in jail overnight, your car may have been towed, or you may have missed a flight. Do not make things worse by hiring an inexperienced lawyer who does not have the necessary experience in DUI defense. You want to secure representation from a lawyer who is knowledgeable about the interstate ramifications of a DUI arrest and who can ensure that you will be able to avoid having to return to California for future court appearances. Your attorney can also help you understand how your case will impact your home state's driver's license.

If you have been arrested for a DUI in Oakland, contact Board-Certified DUI defense attorney Paul Burglin immediately at 510-250-5629.