Court Information

What will happen in court?

Listed on your ticket or paperwork, you will find the date, time and location of your first court appearance.  If you have not consulted with a DUI lawyer, you are required to attend court on you listed day and time.  First, the judge will hear all lawyer-represented cases followed by non-lawyer represented cases.  When your case is up for hearing, the judge will ask you to enter a plea to your charges.  Depending on whether you plead "guilty" or "not guilty", the judge will ask you a series of questions directed at determining if you want to waive your constitutional rights, including your right to a speedy jury trial. It is important to note that if you choose not to use a San Diego DUI lawyer and plead "guilty" or "no contest", typically you can expect to pay $10,000 over the next few years for your DUI conviction.

If choose to plead guilty, the judge will normally pass the sentence immediately. This sentence will vary on your specific charges, the county you are charged in, and the judge.  Normally DUI crimes involve some jail time or a program that counts as jail time, a DUI educational program, a heavy fine, and a probation period.

Is it possible to win a San Diego DUI case?

Yes.  We have a successful record of fighting and winning San Diego DUI cases.  It is not only possible to have your DUI charges decreased, but in some cases we are actually able to have your case dismissed completely.  There are several ways to fight DUI charges.  We have a system to meticulously search police reports for inconsistencies and lapses in procedure. We also request full disclosure of the device used to test your BAC level, the personnel involved in the maintenance, administration, and operation of the device, and the lab results.