The Law Office of Richard Wagner, A Professional Corporation, has enjoyed years of success defending DUI First Offense defense clients in criminal cases and we are ready to help you.
DUI First Offense Lawyer Orange County
This page is designed to answer questions about your DUI First Offense in California. Like most people, you probably have lots of questions. If you don’t see the answer to your questions, please feel free to call (714) 721-4423.
DUI First Offense
Getting arrested for a first DUI in Orange County can be frightening and confusing. Even if it’s your first time being charged with a crime, the consequences can be serious. California law mandates penalties even for first-time DUI offenders, which can affect your license, employment, and insurance. Attorney Richard Wagner is a highly experienced Irvine DUI lawyer who provides aggressive legal representation for first-time offenders throughout Orange County, he is the California DUI first offense expert.
What Happens After a First DUI Arrest?
Most first DUI offenses are charged as misdemeanors under California Vehicle Code Section 23152. However, in certain circumstances such as if your DUI caused injury to another person, or you have a prior felony DUI conviction your first DUI can be charged as a felony.
Typical First DUI Penalties in California:
- Jail time: 48 hours to 6 months in county jail
- Fines: $390–$1,000, plus penalty assessments
- License Suspension: 6 to 10 months from the DMV (separate from court-ordered suspension)
- DUI Program: 3, 6, or 9-month alcohol education program depending on BAC and circumstances
- Ignition Interlock Device (IID): Required for up to 6 months in most counties
- Probation: Typically 3–5 years of informal (summary) probation
Can My First DUI Be Dismissed or Reduced?
Yes. Many first-time DUI offenders are eligible for reduced charges or alternative sentencing. Attorney Wagner works to challenge the legality of the traffic stop, breath or blood test results, and other procedural details. These defenses can result in a case being dismissed or reduced to a lesser charge such as “wet reckless.”
DMV Hearings & Administrative License Suspensions
California has a dual-track DUI process: one through the courts and another through the DMV. If you are arrested for DUI, the DMV initiates an administrative per se (APS) suspension of your license. You have only 10 days from the date of arrest to request a hearing to contest this suspension.
Attorney Wagner will represent you at the DMV hearing and fight to preserve your driving privileges.
Why Hire an Irvine Based DUI Lawyer?
Winning Cases Is What We Do Best!
- Deep knowledge of Orange County courts and prosecutors
- Decades of DUI defense experience
- Personalized case strategy
- Conveniently located in Irvine, CA
- Free, confidential case evaluations
Call: (714) 721-4423 to schedule your free consultation with an Expert Orange County dui first offense attorney.
Other DUI Related Resources:
Richard Wagner Will Fight For You
Priority #1: Zealous Advocacy – Protection Of Your Constitutional Rights
The Law Office of Richard Wagner, A Professional Corporation, has enjoyed years of success defending clients in criminal cases, including: Battery on Police Officer, Battery Against A Spouse, Bench Warrants, Burglary, Disturbing the Peace, Disorderly Conduct, Domestic Violence, Driving on a Suspended License, DUI, Expungements, Forgery, Grand Theft, Hit and Run, Indecent Misdemeanors, Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated Without Gross Negligence, Violation of Protective Order. Richard Wagner is the best drunk driving defense attorney in the Orange County.
Including your Constitutional Right: