A driving under the influence (DUI) arrest can feel overwhelming, especially if it is your first time encountering California’s criminal justice system. If you have been arrested, you are likely wondering, “What happens after a DUI arrest in Sacramento, CA?” Learning more about what to do during and after an arrest can help you understand what happens next, allowing you to make decisions to protect your rights and prevent California’s strict DUI penalties.
Why Choose the Dbouk Law Office, P.C.?
At the Dbouk Law Office, P.C., a thorough understanding of California’s DUI laws and a dedication to developing strategic defenses can help you achieve a favorable outcome for your DUI case. Among other memberships and trainings, attorney Ibraham Dbouk is a member of the California DUI Lawyers Association (CDLA), representing his commitment to providing skilled defense for those arrested in Sacramento.
An Overview of DUI Charges in California
Under California’s DUI laws, you can be convicted of a DUI if you were operating a vehicle while impaired due to alcohol or drugs, or if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was 0.08% or higher. Even stricter requirements are in place for drivers under 21, drivers on DUI probation, commercial driver’s license holders, or drivers for hire.
Law enforcement agencies such as the Sacramento Police Department or the California Highway Patrol take DUIs seriously due to the harm impaired drivers can cause. Alcohol-impaired driving causes one death every 42 minutes. In 2023, Sacramento County was rated the fifth county in the state with the highest number of serious injuries due to alcohol impaired driving.
What To Do If You Are Arrested for a DUI in Sacramento?
During and immediately after an arrest, your actions are critical in order to protect your ability to defend against DUI charges. Some steps to remember during an arrest include:
- Stay calm and cooperative with officers
- Provide basic personal information, but remain silent when asked about the offense
- Request to contact a Sacramento DUI attorney
- Consult a lawyer before answering detailed questions or providing a personal statement
What To Expect After You Are Arrested?
If you hire a DUI lawyer, they can provide specific guidance on how your case will proceed after an arrest. However, there are several steps you can expect to happen during this process. The basic process generally includes:
- Booking and release. When you are arrested, you can be taken to the Sacramento County Main Jail for booking. You may be held briefly or released on bail or your own recognizance, unless the arrest involved aggravated charges.
- Administrative action. Your license may be suspended by the DMV. Your lawyer can help you challenge this automatic suspension through an administrative hearing.
- Arraignment. During this first court appearance at the Sacramento County Superior Court, your charges will be formally read to you, and you can enter a plea.
- Pre-trial proceedings. Before a trial officially begins, your lawyer can review the evidence against you, build a defense strategy, file motions, and negotiate with prosecutors to achieve reduced or dismissed charges.
- Trial. If no agreement is reached, your case can proceed to trial, where a judge can decide the DUI penalties you may face.
Hire a DUI Lawyer You Can Trust
If you have been arrested for a DUI, acting quickly can help you protect your rights during the investigation, prevent license suspension, and mitigate harsh DUI penalties. Contact the Dbouk Law Office, P.C. to speak with a Sacramento DUI attorney about your case.
