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Merced DUI Attorney

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Being arrested for driving under the influence can upend your life. DUI penalties in California are severe, and a conviction can affect your job, finances, and even your freedom. 

However, even if you find yourself in this dire situation, you still have options to defend yourself. A qualified Merced DUI attorney can help you navigate the legal process, contest the charges, and work toward the best possible outcome. 

At the Law Offices of Shawn M. George, APC, we understand how stressful it is to face DUI charges alone. Fortunately, you don’t have to. With years of experience in California DUI defense, we are prepared to deliver the rigorous and effective representation you deserve during this difficult time.

Why Hire a Merced DUI Lawyer

After a DUI arrest, many people think that their best option is to plead guilty and accept the consequences. Others assume that they can simply defend themselves in court. However, both of these choices can be costly mistakes. 

Unlike other traffic violations, the cost of a DUI doesn’t end after you plead guilty and pay a fine. Even your first DUI charge can lead to long-term financial consequences, including higher insurance premiums and fees, potentially totaling thousands of dollars.

Additionally, the legal process surrounding DUI charges in California is complex. Attempting to represent yourself—or relying on a public defender juggling dozens of other cases—could significantly reduce your chances of a favorable outcome.

Hiring a dedicated Merced DUI attorney gives you access to knowledgeable and personalized legal support. An attorney who understands the intricacies of DUI law in California can analyze the evidence against you, spot weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and build a tailored defense strategy. A skilled DUI attorney’s guidance can help lessen the legal process’s stress and improve your chances of a better outcome.

Types of DUI Charges

At the Law Offices of Shawn George, we have experience defending clients against all types of DUI charges, including:

  • DUI with alcohol,
  • DUI with drugs,
  • DUI by a commercial operator,
  • Hit and run with DUI,
  • Underaged driver DUI, and
  • DUI causing injury or death.

No matter the severity of the charge, when you are our client, we will thoroughly investigate your case and develop a defense strategy tailored to your situation.

DUI Penalties in California

The penalties for a DUI in California also depend on various factors. They can increase with each subsequent offense or if anyone is harmed. 

Depending on your history and the situation, DUI penalties can include:

  • Fines from $390 for a first misdemeanor DUI to $1,000 or more for incidents involving injury or death;
  • Imprisonment from anywhere between 48 hours and a year;
  • Suspension of your license for six months or multiple years;
  • Enrollment in mandatory DUI education programs; and
  • Installation of Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in your vehicle.

California’s DUI penalties are strict, but they are not necessarily set in stone. An experienced Merced DUI lawyer can work to reduce the penalties or even have the charges dismissed altogether, depending on the circumstances of your case.

How a Merced DUI Defense Lawyer Can Help

Having a skilled DUI attorney on your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Here are some of the benefits that come with the qualified legal representation our DUI defense attorney, Shawn George, offers.

Guidance Navigating the Legal Process

A DUI case generally involves two stages: the DMV administrative hearing and the criminal court case. The DMV hearing determines whether your license will be suspended, while the criminal case determines guilt and penalties. 

Shawn George can help you request a DMV hearing before the deadline—10 days after your arrest—and ensure you meet all other procedural requirements. 

Advocacy to Prevent License Suspension

At the DMV hearing, we can challenge the evidence and argue to keep your driving privileges intact. Even if you still face suspension, your attorney may be able to negotiate for a restricted license that allows you to drive to work or school.

Investigation into Evidence Against You

DUI cases rely heavily on evidence such as breathalyzer tests, blood tests, and officer testimony. However, this evidence is not always reliable. Breathalyzers can malfunction, blood samples can be mishandled, and officers can make procedural mistakes during the arrest. Shawn George will thoroughly investigate the evidence in your case, identify any errors or inconsistencies, and use them to challenge the prosecution’s case.

Strong Defense Strategy

Every DUI case is different, but common defenses against DUI charges include:

  • Lack of probable cause for the traffic stop,
  • Improperly administered field sobriety tests,
  • Faulty breathalyzer or blood test results,
  • Rising blood alcohol levels (arguing that your BAC was below the legal limit while driving), and
  • Medical conditions or medications affecting test results.

Shawn George will work with you to develop the most effective defense strategy based on the facts of your case.

Negotiation for Lower Penalties

Even if the evidence against you is strong, a skilled DUI attorney can often negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the charges or penalties. A plea deal for a lesser charge, such as reckless driving, may result in lower fines, less jail time, and fewer long-term consequences.

Representation in Court

Appearing in court can be intimidating, but you don’t have to face it alone. Shawn George will represent you at all court appearances and speak on your behalf, protecting your rights throughout the process. His experience in Merced County courts gives him a strategic advantage when negotiating with prosecutors and presenting your case to the judge.

Take the First Step Toward Protecting Your Future

If you face a DUI charge, time is critical. The sooner you consult with a skilled attorney, the better your chances of building a strong defense. 

We have years of experience successfully handling DUI cases across the Central Valley. Our dedicated advocacy has helped reduce and even dismiss damaging DUI charges for clients in Merced and beyond. When we take your case, you can have confidence that we will fight tirelessly to protect your driving privileges and help you move on with your life. Contact the Law Offices of Shawn M. George, APC today to schedule a consultation and learn more. 

 

Resources:

California Vehicle Code § 13350, link.

California Vehicle Code § 23575, link.

California Vehicle Code § 23538, link.