Tulare DUI Lawyer

Tulare DUI Attorney

Getting arrested for a DUI in Tulare can have a drastic effect on your life. This one moment can threaten your career, criminal record, housing, and social life, even for a first-time offender. However, a DUI charge does not have to be the end of your freedom. A Tulare DUI lawyer can help you fight for your rights and secure a better future.

Why Choose the Carlos Navarrete Law Firm?

At the Carlos Navarrete Law Firm, we offer distinct assistance in your criminal defense. With more than 80 cases tried before juries and over 23 years of combined trial experience, our team is well-versed in the tactics used by the prosecution and builds strong defenses for our clients.

We place a high value on individual consultations, guaranteeing candid and transparent communication throughout your case. We are dedicated to assisting you in making wise decisions and working toward an ideal result, regardless of whether you are dealing with DUI charges or other criminal accusations.​

DUI in California

After declining by 3.2% in 2019, the DUI arrest rate per 100,000 licensed drivers fell by 21.5% in 2020. Drug-related collision fatalities rose by 28.9% in 2020, while alcohol-related crash fatalities rose by 7.6%. Alcohol was a factor in 31.8% of all crash fatalities.

In California, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle if your blood alcohol content (BAC) level is above the legal limit. For the average driver, this limit is 0.08%. For commercial drivers, the limit is 0.04%. Those under the age of 21 must not have any traceable amount of alcohol in their systems.

DUI offenses do not just cover alcohol-related intoxication. A driver also cannot be under the influence of controlled substances while driving or even other legal prescription drugs if the drug hinders their ability to drive.

Penalties for DUI in Tulare

The penalties for DUI range depending on which offense the arrest falls under. Typically, subsequent offenses after a first offense result in stiffer penalties:

• First offense. A first-offense DUI can result in up to six months in jail, fines and penalties between $390 and $1,000, a suspended license, and/or probation.
• Second offense. Potential penalties for a second DUI include up to 12 months in jail, up to $1,000 in fines, a 2-year license suspension, probation, and/or mandatory completion of a drug or alcohol program.
• Third offense. A third DUI offense within ten years can result in up to 12 months in jail, up to $1,000 in fines, a 3-year license suspension, probation, and mandatory completion of programs for a minimum of 18 months.
• Fourth offense. A fourth or subsequent offense can result in up to three years in prison, up to $1,000 in fines, and a 4-year license revocation.

Additionally, the presence of aggravating factors can drastically increase the severity of penalties. Aggravating factors include:

• Having an exceptionally high BAC level, typically around twice the legal limit or more
• Excessive speeding
• Causing an accident, especially one that causes injury, death, or property damage
• Endangering children by having minors in the vehicle
• Reckless driving, including tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and failing to obey traffic signs
• Driving on a suspended license
• Multiple victims, such as killing or severely injuring multiple people

These factors can lead to increased penalties or cause a misdemeanor to graduate to a felony.

What to Do After Being Arrested for a DUI

After being arrested for a DUI in Tulare, be sure to take immediate action to work towards protecting your rights. First, be sure to contact an attorney right away. Contact an experienced DUI attorney who understands the local court system, including the Tulare County Superior Court located on South Mooney Boulevard in Visalia. They can advise you on the next steps and ensure that you do not make any mistakes that can hurt your case.

Exercise your right to remain silent. Do not speak about the details of the incident with anyone except your attorney. Anything you say to law enforcement, on social media, or on other public platforms can be used against you, even if you do not admit fault.

Gather all relevant documentation, including your arrest record and DMV paperwork. Make sure you attend all your court hearings and fulfill all court obligations, as this will look favorable in your situation.

FAQs About Tulare, CA DUI Laws

What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Tulare?

After a DUI arrest in Tulare, you may be subject to administrative license suspension by the DMV in addition to criminal penalties in Tulare County Superior Court. You have a limited amount of time to request a DMV hearing to contest the suspension. You may start constructing a solid defense and defending your rights by speaking with a competent DUI lawyer right away.

What Are the Penalties for a First DUI Offense in Tulare?

After a first DUI offense in Tulare, you may be subject to fines of up to $1,000, a six-month license suspension, DUI education classes, and up to six months in jail. However, if a first offense does not have any aggravating factors, such as leading to someone else’s death in a car accident, an offender may receive probation in exchange for jail time.

What Is an Aggravated DUI?

An aggravated DUI is a DUI that includes aggravating factors, such as driving with an abnormally high BAC level, driving with minors in the car, or causing a serious accident. Aggravated DUIs result in more severe penalties, such as a felony charge, prison time, and increased fines. An offender may also have their license suspended for an extended period of time.

How Much Does a DUI Lawyer Cost?

The cost of a DUI lawyer depends on several factors. One important factor to consider is the fee structure of the lawyer. Some lawyers may charge a flat fee, and some may charge a contingency fee. This is why it’s important to discuss the fee arrangement with the lawyer upfront.

Contact the Carlos Navarrete Law Firm Today

If you have been charged with DUI in Tulare, legal assistance is available. The Carlos Navarrete Law Firm can help. Contact us today to get started.