First Offense DUI Defense in Riverside

Get Answers the Same Day After a First DUI Arrest

Decisions made soon after a DUI arrest can affect both the court proceedings and the separate driver’s license process. At DeLimon Law, we return calls the same day, sometimes within minutes. We explain the allegations, available options, and realistic potential outcomes in plain language.

When needed, we visit clients in custody shortly after arrest. We can also take over communications with agencies and departments so clients don’t have to handle those calls alone. As the case moves forward, we provide frequent updates so clients and families know what’s happening between court dates.

Call (951) 777-9104 to discuss your Riverside first-offense DUI charge and any decisions that may require immediate attention.

Your DMV Hearing & Riverside Court Case Follow Separate Tracks

An arrest on suspicion of DUI in Riverside starts two distinct proceedings: a criminal prosecution and a separate license proceeding before the DMV. The Administrative Per Se hearing is used to challenge the suspension. Under California Vehicle Code § 13558, the hearing generally must be requested within 10 calendar days of receiving the suspension notice, including weekends and holidays.

Missing that deadline can result in an automatic suspension beginning 30 days after the arrest. A timely request generally places a temporary stay on the suspension until the DMV issues its hearing decision. At the hearing, the DMV uses the preponderance-of-the-evidence standard, meaning a fact must be more likely than not. In court, the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, which is a higher standard.

The court proceeding begins with an arraignment, where the court addresses the charges and receives a plea. For Riverside arrests, the arraignment is scheduled at a Riverside Superior Court location based on where the alleged offense occurred. We can appear with the client at arraignment and manage many court communications. We begin working promptly rather than waiting for the next court date.

Potential Penalties for a First Offense DUI in Riverside

California Vehicle Code § 23152 prohibits driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It also prohibits driving with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher. Most first DUI charges are misdemeanors, but the potential consequences depend on the evidence, the final disposition, and any aggravating circumstances.

A first DUI conviction can expose a person to:

• Between 96 hours and six months in county jail
• Fines ranging from $390 to $1,000, plus applicable assessments
• Three to five years of probation
• A required DUI education program
• Driver’s license suspension
• Ignition interlock device requirements

A first qualifying Administrative Per Se offense involving a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher can carry a four-month suspension. A first-offense refusal typically carries a one-year suspension. Prior DUI convictions, injury allegations, testing issues, or probation status can increase potential exposure, so we review the complete circumstances rather than assuming the charge is routine.