Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is one of the most commonly charged offenses in Southern California. Because of the high rate of alcohol-related traffic collisions, the State of California is cracking down on drunk driving. It is important to know that there is no quick fix when you are facing a DUI.
The biggest mistake that most people make is trying to handle the DMV hearing and court case without an attorney. Defending a drunk driving case out of Southern California requires an intricate knowledge of the courts and the California Department of Motor Vehicles. Without the help of an experienced DUI Defense Attorney, you could face additional penalties.
Facing a DUI charge in Ventura County or Santa Barbara? Call Ridley Defense today at (805) 590-2637 for a FREE consultation.
Why Ridley Defense is the Right Law Firm For You
We represent a lot of good people who get arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI). Unlike many other offenses that require some type of serious criminal intent, most of our clients had the best of intentions and just mistakenly got in the car when they had too much to drink. Defending a DUI requires knowledge of the system, the science, and the potential defenses involved. We can often find problems with the process, but even when law enforcement does everything correctly, Ridley Defense guides clients through the maze of DMV and court procedures to minimize the damage and get our clients through to the other side.
At Ridley Defense, we know that drunk driving charges rarely affect just one person. We always focus on putting families back together after a distressing event. Our attorneys will guide you through the criminal court process, administrative hearing, and the necessary steps to take outside of court. If you or a loved one has been charged with a DUI, contact our offices today for a complimentary consultation. It is important to remember that you only have ten (10) days from the date of arrest to request your administrative hearing through the DMV. Failure to contact the DMV can result in the automatic suspension of your driving privileges.
Criminal Charges for DUI Offenses in California
Driving Under the Influence is codified into law as violation of Vehicle Code 23152. Subsection (a) and (b) of this Vehicle Code apply specifically to alcohol and are stated as follows:
Vehicle Code Section 23152(a) states: “It is unlawful for a person to drive under the influence of any alcoholic beverage to drive a vehicle.”
Vehicle Code Section 23152(b) states: “It is unlawful for a person who has 0.08 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in his or her blood to drive a vehicle.”
Under V.C. 23152(a), a person may be charged with a DUI even if they have a blood alcohol level under 0.08 percent.
If convicted, penalties may include fines, license suspension, DUI school, and even jail time. The most important step after an arrest is choosing the right DUI defense attorney to handle your case.
Turn to Ridley Defense To Help Navigate Your DUI Charge
Doug Ridley represents clients all over Ventura County facing DUI charges. Whether it's your first offense or you're underaged, Ridley Defense has represented clients in cases involving:
- Boating Under The Influence
- Drug DUI
- Felony DUI
- First Offense DUI
- Marijuana DUI
- Prescription Drug DUI
- Second or Multiple DUI
- Underage DUI
Possible DUI Defenses in California
A DUI charge does not automatically mean a conviction. There are several defense strategies that could lead to a reduction or dismissal of charges:
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Inaccurate BAC Readings – Breathalyzers and blood tests can be faulty or improperly administered.
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Illegal Traffic Stop – If law enforcement did not have a valid reason to stop you, evidence may be suppressed.
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Rising Blood Alcohol Defense – Your BAC may have risen after you were pulled over, meaning you weren’t over the limit while driving.
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Field Sobriety Test Issues – These tests are subjective and unreliable.
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Medical Conditions & Medications – Certain conditions can cause false positives on breathalyzer tests.
Penalties for a DUI Conviction in California
DUI penalties can vary based on prior offenses and case details. A first-time DUI conviction may include:
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Up to six months in jail
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Fines ranging from $390 to $1,000, plus penalty assessments
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License suspension
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Completion of an alcohol education program
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Ignition interlock device (IID) installation
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Possible community service or probation
A second or subsequent DUI can lead to longer jail time, higher fines, and extended license suspension. A fourth DUI within 10 years may be charged as a felony, carrying potential prison time.
How Ridley Defense Can Help You Fight DUI Charges
Attorney Doug Ridley has extensive experience defending DUI cases throughout Ventura County. We know that many DUI offenders are responsible individuals who made a mistake—not career criminals. Our firm:
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Fights to reduce or dismiss charges whenever possible
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Navigates the DMV hearing to protect your driver’s license
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Uses scientific knowledge to challenge breath and blood test results
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Helps minimize penalties so you can move forward with your life
Resources for Those Facing DUI Charges
If you or a loved one has been charged with DUI, these resources may help:
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DUI Defense FAQs – Answers to common DUI questions
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What to Do During a DUI Arrest – Understanding your rights
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Breathalyzer & Blood Tests Explained – How DUI evidence is used
Ignition Interlock Requirements
In January 2019, a new law went into effect, allowing individuals whose license was suspended for driving under the influence immediate eligibility of a restricted license with the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID). Senate Bill 1046 extended the IID Pilot Program in effect from July 1, 2010, to July 1, 2017, for the counties of Alameda, Los Angeles, Sacramento, and Tulare.
An Ignition Interlock Device is a small breathalyzer that is wired to the ignition on your vehicle. To start your car, you must provide a breath sample. If the device detects a measurable amount of alcohol, your engine will not start. In addition, you are required to provide periodic breath samples while you operate the vehicle.
Call Ridley Defense Today for a Free Consultation
Driving under the influence can happen to just about anyone. It is usually not seasoned criminals that end up facing drunk driving charges. Many DUI offenders are professionals with good standing in their community.
At Ridley Defense, we know that getting your life back to normal is essential. We are experienced attorneys, well-respected in the courthouses who fight hard for our clients protecting their rights and preserving their freedoms. Our firm prides itself on the relationships we have with opposing counsel, with law enforcement and with every client that comes in our door.
Contact Ridley Defense today at (805) 590-2637 for your complimentary consultation.
