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Being accused of driving under the influence in California can be an overwhelming experience, especially if it is your first time dealing with the charge. An Oakland first offense DUI lawyer could help to explain the implications of such charges, and could begin working on your case. Reach out to a qualified DUI attorney today for a free consultation.

Where are First Time DUI Offenses Heard in Oakland?

First-time DUI charges in Oakland may be heard in downtown Oakland on Washington Street where misdemeanor charges could be filed. Most DUIs could be considered misdemeanors and are heard in the Oakland courthouse, also known as the Wiley W. Manuel Courthouse.

Depending on the location of the arrest the case may be assigned to the East County Hall of Justice in Dublin, which may be done if the arrest was made by the Dublin or Livermore police department.

What are Mistakes to Avoid in a DUI First Offense Case?

Attempting to handle a first time DUI case alone, could be a mistake a defendant may want to avoid. DUI cases may be complex, regardless of whether the offense is a misdemeanor or felony. Since there may be a fair amount of scientific and non-scientific evidence, an Oakland first offense DUI lawyer could be useful in handling the next steps.

The district attorney may be given a significant advantage over somebody who may not have an attorney. By not hiring an experienced attorney, an individual may be putting themselves at a great disadvantage. Even if the defendant wants to resolve quickly it may be advisable to have an Oakland first offense DUI attorney on your side who could do the following:

  • Negotiate reduced penalties
  • Explain terms and conditions of a plea deal
  • Explain the consequences of a possible conviction
  • Work on cleaning up any damage made to an individual’s criminal record

Leniency of Judges and Juries in California

The jury could be considered the fact finder and determines whether the person is found guilty or not guilty. When the jury decides a person is not guilty, the case may be over. If the jury votes to convict and find the person guilty, the sentencing is handled by the judge, and the jury has no say in the sentence. An Oakland first offense DUI lawyer could present the defendant’s case and convey to the jury the relevance of this charge being the first offense.

Building a Defense for a First Offense DUI Case

The defense for a DUI charge may begin with the Oakland DUI lawyer looking at the arrest to see whether there are legal or factual problems. When there are issues like an improper stop, it may be appropriate to file a motion to suppress. If the motion to suppress is granted, the case could be dismissed because the prosecution may not go further, and arguments may be made regarding how the evidence was collected.

In a DUI case, there could be concerns about how the officers conducted the investigation on the street, including the field sobriety tests, and at the police station involving the breath or blood samples that may have been taken. There might be issues as to whether there is sufficient proof that the person who was charged was the one driving the vehicle, which could lead to a defense claim that the person charged was not driving at the time of the alleged incident.

Contacting an Oakland First Offense DUI Attorney

Being accused of driving while intoxicated could be a hefty process, and gaining the advice of a legal professional may be beneficial in defending your reputation. An Oakland first offense DUI lawyer could begin working on your case. Speak with a capable attorney that could advocate for you.

Top-Rated Criminal Defense Lawyers Serving the Bay Area

The Nieves Law Firm is dedicated to providing aggressive criminal defense representation to working professionals who have found themselves in trouble with the law. We show up to win, and we’re not afraid to fight aggressively to accomplish our client’s goals.

We understand that being accused of a crime can be a scary and confusing experience. That’s why we take the stress off our clients by handling the full scope of their legal situation from the initial consultation to the final outcome. Our bilingual attorneys and staff are here to ensure that our clients feel heard and understood every step of the way.

As one of the largest criminal defense teams in Oakland and the Greater Bay Area, we have the resources and experience to handle even the most complex cases. Our experienced team examines various aspects of your case and, perhaps most importantly, we genuinely care about our clients and their future. We take the time to learn about their goals and priorities so that we can achieve an outcome that allows them to move past their mistakes and focus on the future they want. When you work with us, you become part of our team.

Our Team

Our skilled criminal defense attorneys have experience handling a wide range of criminal cases. With a deep understanding of the legal system and a track record of successful cases, our lawyers are committed to achieving the best possible outcome in your case.

Meet Our Team

Our Criminal Defense Attorneys: How to Take Back Control of Your Life, And Your Future.

When facing a criminal charge, having dedicated and experienced attorneys on your side is critical. At The Nieves Law Firm, we understand the gravity of your situation, and our criminal defense attorneys provide unwavering support and legal guidance.

From the moment you reach out to us, we prioritize your well-being and legal interests. Our criminal lawyers are with you every step of the way, from arrest to hearings and beyond, to ensure that your rights are protected. Whether you’re facing charges related to DUI, drug offenses, assault, sex crimes or any other allegation, we have the knowledge and courtroom experience to fight vigorously on your behalf.

We believe in the power of collaboration and will actively involve you in the decision-making process, ensuring you are well-informed and empowered to make the best choices for your defense. Our goal is not only to navigate the legal complexities but also to provide you with the peace of mind and reassurance you deserve during this challenging time.

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