Santa Ana First DUI Defense Lawyer

Protect Your Future with Experienced Legal Representation

Being arrested for a first-time DUI in California can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. The legal process is complex, and the consequences can significantly impact your driving privileges, criminal record, employment opportunities, and finances. If you're facing your first DUI charge in Santa Ana, it's essential to act quickly and speak with a skilled Santa Ana first DUI defense attorney.

At Braden & Tucci, we understand what's at stake. Our dedicated legal team has extensive experience defending clients throughout Santa Ana, CA, and surrounding areas. We work aggressively to minimize the consequences of a first DUI and guide you through each step of the legal process with clarity, professionalism, and compassion.

To let our firm protect your rights and future, contact us today at (949) 996-0170.

What is Considered a DUI in California?

In California, you're considered legally impaired if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is:

• 0.08% or higher if you’re over 21 and driving a non-commercial vehicle
• 0.04% or higher if you're driving a commercial vehicle
• 0.01% or higher if you're under 21 or on DUI probation

A person can also be charged with DUI if under the influence of drugs (illegal, prescription, or over-the-counter) or a combination of alcohol and drugs that impairs their ability to drive safely.

A first-time DUI is typically charged as a misdemeanor, but aggravating factors—such as a high BAC, an accident, or having a minor in the vehicle—can result in more severe penalties.

What Happens After a DUI Arrest?

After a DUI arrest in Santa Ana, the process usually unfolds in several key stages:

1. Arrest and Chemical Testing

The officer will administer field sobriety tests and a breath or blood test. If your BAC exceeds the legal limit or you refuse testing, you'll likely be arrested and taken into custody.

2. License Suspension

The DMV will automatically begin the process of suspending your license through an Administrative Per Se (APS) action. You have 10 days from the date of your arrest to request a DMV hearing to challenge this suspension. Failure to request a hearing means your license will be automatically suspended.

3. Court Proceedings

You’ll face criminal charges in Orange County Superior Court, with an arraignment scheduled typically within a few weeks. At this point, it’s critical to have a Santa Ana first DUI defense attorney by your side to represent your interests and explore all possible defenses.

4. Plea Bargain or Trial

Depending on the evidence and your circumstances, your attorney may negotiate a plea deal or take your case to trial. Our firm focuses on identifying flaws in the prosecution’s case, such as errors in the breathalyzer calibration, illegal stops, or mishandled evidence.

First DUI Penalties

A first DUI conviction in California comes with both criminal and administrative penalties. These may include:

• License Suspension: 6 months (or 4 months if you choose not to contest the DMV action)
• Fines and Fees: Totaling around $2,000 or more
• DUI Education Program: 3 to 9 months, depending on your BAC
• Probation: 3 to 5 years of informal (summary) probation
• Jail Time: Up to 6 months (often waived or converted to community service for a first offense)
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID): Required in many cases for continued driving privileges

Aggravating factors—such as a BAC above 0.15%, speeding, or causing an accident—can result in harsher penalties.