Criminal Defense Lawyers

San Bernardino DUI Attorney

San Bernardino DUI Attorney: Your Trusted Advocate in Difficult Times

Have you recently been arrested for driving under the influence in San Bernardino County? Are you feeling overwhelmed, scared, and unsure of what to do next? Don’t panic – we’re here to help. At Spodek Law Group, our experienced San Bernardino DUI attorneys have successfully defended thousands of clients facing DUI charges. We understand how stressful and frightening this situation can be, but you don’t have to face it alone.With our skilled legal team on your side, we can help you navigate the complex DUI legal process, protect your rights, and fight for the best possible outcome in your case. Whether this is your first offense or you have prior convictions, we have the knowledge and resources to build a strong defense strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about DUI charges in San Bernardino, your legal options, and how our attorneys can help. Let’s dive in.

Understanding DUI Laws in San Bernardino County

Before we discuss defense strategies, it’s important to understand the basics of DUI laws in California and San Bernardino County specifically. Here are the key things you need to know:

What Constitutes a DUI in California?

In California, you can be charged with a DUI for:

• Driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher
• Driving under the influence of any amount of alcohol that impairs your ability to drive safely
• Driving under the influence of drugs (legal or illegal) that impair your ability to drive

It’s important to note that you can be charged with a DUI even if your BAC is below 0.08% if the officer determines your driving ability was impaired. Additionally, commercial drivers and drivers under 21 are held to stricter BAC limits.

Penalties for DUI in San Bernardino County

The penalties for a DUI conviction in San Bernardino can be severe, even for first-time offenders. Potential consequences may include:

• Jail time (minimum 48 hours for first offense)
• Fines and fees (up to $1,000 plus penalty assessments)
• Driver’s license suspension
• Mandatory DUI school
• Probation
• Installation of an ignition interlock device
• Increased insurance rates

Penalties increase significantly for subsequent offenses or if there are aggravating factors like excessive speed, having a child in the vehicle, or causing an accident.

The DUI Legal Process in San Bernardino

If you’re arrested for DUI in San Bernardino County, here’s a general overview of what to expect:

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

1. Arrest and booking
2. DMV hearing (you have only 10 days to request this!)
3. Arraignment (your first court appearance)
4. Pre-trial conferences
5. Possible plea bargain negotiations
6. Trial (if your case goes that far)
7. Sentencing (if convicted)

This process can be complex and intimidating, which is why having an experienced DUI attorney is crucial. We’ll discuss how we can help at each stage later in this article.

Why You Need a San Bernardino DUI Attorney

You might be wondering – do I really need to hire a lawyer for my DUI case? Can’t I just represent myself? While it’s technically possible to handle your own defense, we strongly advise against it. Here’s why:

The Stakes Are High

A DUI conviction can have serious, long-lasting consequences that go far beyond just fines and potential jail time. It can impact your:

• Employment opportunities
• Professional licenses
• Immigration status
• Child custody arrangements
• Auto insurance rates
• Personal and professional reputation

With so much on the line, you need a skilled advocate in your corner fighting to protect your rights and future.

DUI Law Is Complex

DUI cases involve intricate legal and scientific issues. From challenging the legality of the traffic stop to questioning the accuracy of chemical tests, there are many potential defense strategies. But without in-depth knowledge of DUI law and local court procedures, you may miss crucial opportunities to fight the charges.

Prosecutors Have Resources

Remember, you’ll be going up against experienced prosecutors with significant resources at their disposal. They handle DUI cases every day and know all the tricks. To level the playing field, you need an equally experienced DUI defense attorney on your side.

Potential for Reduced Charges or Penalties

An experienced DUI lawyer may be able to negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or penalties, even if the evidence against you seems strong. We know what arguments are most likely to be successful in San Bernardino courts.

Peace of Mind

Perhaps most importantly, having a trusted attorney handle your case can provide invaluable peace of mind during this stressful time. You can rest easier knowing an experienced professional is protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible outcome.

How Our San Bernardino DUI Attorneys Can Help

At Spodek Law Group, we have a proven track record of successfully defending clients against DUI charges in San Bernardino County. Here’s how we can assist you throughout the legal process:

Immediate Assistance After Arrest

Time is of the essence in DUI cases. As soon as you contact us, we’ll spring into action:

• Advising you on what to say (and not say) to law enforcement
• Helping you request a DMV hearing (remember, you only have 10 days!)
• Beginning our investigation while evidence is still fresh

Thorough Case Analysis

We’ll conduct a comprehensive review of your case, including:

• Analyzing police reports and witness statements
• Reviewing dash cam and body cam footage
• Examining maintenance and calibration records for testing equipment
• Investigating the scene of the arrest if necessary

This thorough analysis allows us to identify any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and develop the strongest possible defense strategy.

DMV Hearing Representation

We’ll represent you at your DMV hearing to fight against the automatic suspension of your driver’s license. This hearing is separate from your criminal case but equally important.

Negotiating with Prosecutors

Our attorneys have established relationships with local prosecutors and know how to negotiate effectively. We may be able to:

• Get charges reduced (e.g. from DUI to wet reckless)
• Argue for alternative sentencing options
• Minimize jail time and other penalties

Trial Representation

If your case goes to trial, you can count on our experienced litigators to provide aggressive courtroom representation. We’ll challenge the prosecution’s evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and present a compelling case in your defense.

Post-Conviction Assistance

Even if you’re convicted, we can help minimize the impact by:

• Arguing for the most lenient possible sentence
• Helping you navigate probation requirements
• Assisting with expungement when eligible

Potential Defense Strategies for Your San Bernardino DUI Case

Every DUI case is unique, which is why we develop a customized defense strategy for each client. However, here are some common defense approaches we may employ:

Challenging the Traffic Stop

If the officer didn’t have reasonable suspicion to pull you over in the first place, we may be able to get all evidence from the stop thrown out.

Questioning Field Sobriety Tests

Field sobriety tests are notoriously subjective and unreliable. We’ll scrutinize how they were administered and interpreted.

Attacking Chemical Test Results

Breathalyzers and blood tests aren’t infallible. We’ll investigate whether the equipment was properly calibrated and maintained, and whether proper procedures were followed.

Rising Blood Alcohol Defense

Your BAC at the time of testing may have been higher than when you were actually driving due to the way alcohol is absorbed by the body.

Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions can mimic signs of intoxication or affect chemical test results. We’ll explore whether this could be a factor in your case.

Necessity Defense

In rare cases, we may argue that you had no choice but to drive under the influence due to an emergency situation.These are just a few examples – the specific strategies we use will depend on the unique circumstances of your case.

Why Choose Spodek Law Group for Your San Bernardino DUI Defense

When you’re facing DUI charges in San Bernardino, you have many options for legal representation. Here’s why we believe Spodek Law Group is your best choice:

Extensive DUI Defense Experience

Our attorneys have successfully defended thousands of DUI cases throughout California. We know the local courts, prosecutors, and judges in San Bernardino County and how to navigate the system effectively.

Aggressive Advocacy

We’re not afraid to stand up to prosecutors and fight hard for our clients. You can count on us to explore every possible avenue for your defense.

Personalized Attention

Unlike some large firms where you’re just a case number, we provide individualized attention to every client. You’ll work directly with experienced attorneys who genuinely care about your case.

24/7 Availability

DUI arrests don’t just happen during business hours. That’s why we’re available 24/7 to take your call and provide immediate assistance.

Proven Results

Our track record speaks for itself – we’ve helped countless clients avoid conviction, get charges reduced, or minimize penalties.

Affordable Rates

We believe everyone deserves high-quality legal representation. That’s why we offer competitive rates and flexible payment plans.

Frequently Asked Questions About San Bernardino DUI Cases

Here are answers to some common questions we receive from clients facing DUI charges in San Bernardino:

Q: Should I just plead guilty to get it over with?

A: Absolutely not! Even if you think the evidence against you is strong, there may be defenses available that you’re not aware of. Always consult with an experienced DUI attorney before making any decisions about your case.

Q: How long will my license be suspended?

A: It depends on several factors, including whether this is your first offense and your BAC level. For a first offense, the suspension is typically 4 months, but it can be longer. We may be able to help you obtain a restricted license for work or school.

Q: Will I have to install an ignition interlock device?

A: Possibly. California law now requires ignition interlock devices for most DUI convictions, even first offenses. However, we may be able to argue against this requirement in your case.

Q: How much will this cost me?

A: The total cost of a DUI conviction can be substantial, including fines, increased insurance rates, DUI classes, and more. However, investing in skilled legal representation can often save you money in the long run by helping you avoid or minimize these costs.

Q: How long will a DUI stay on my record?

A: In California, a DUI conviction stays on your driving record for 10 years. However, it remains on your criminal record indefinitely unless you’re able to get it expunged.

Q: Can I refuse a breathalyzer test?

A: You can, but there are consequences. Refusing a chemical test after arrest will result in an automatic one-year license suspension for a first offense. However, in some cases, refusing may be strategically advantageous. We can advise you on the best course of action if you’re in this situation.

Take Action Now to Protect Your Rights

If you or a loved one has been arrested for DUI in San Bernardino County, don’t wait to get legal help. The sooner you contact us, the more we can do to protect your rights and build a strong defense.Remember, you have only 10 days from the date of arrest to request a DMV hearing to fight the automatic suspension of your driver’s license. Don’t miss this crucial deadline!At Spodek Law Group, we’re here to guide you through this difficult time and fight for the best possible outcome in your case. We offer free initial consultations, so you have nothing to lose by speaking with us about your options.Call us now at 212-300-5196 to schedule your free consultation with an experienced San Bernardino DUI attorney. Let us put our knowledge, skills, and resources to work for you.Don’t let a DUI arrest derail your life. With Spodek Law Group on your side, you can face these charges with confidence, knowing you have a powerful advocate fighting for your rights and future. Contact us today to get started on your defense.