First-Time DUI
Facing your first DUI in Los Angeles County? Jack Ter-Saakyan can review the arrest, the court paperwork, and any DMV notice to help you understand your options.
A first DUI can involve two separate proceedings: the criminal court case and a DMV licensing action. Request an APS hearing within 10 calendar days of receiving the suspension or revocation notice. If you received the notice at arrest, count from your arrest date. Check the actual paperwork for court dates and driving restrictions; resolving one proceeding does not necessarily resolve the other. Get help with the DMV process.
Possible penalties include probation, fines and assessments, a DUI education program, and jail. Driving restrictions may arise through both DMV and the criminal case, including ignition interlock device (IID) installation and maintenance when required. An eligible driver may also choose an IID restriction as a licensing option. The applicable rules depend on factors such as the alleged offense, test results, prior history, and any injury. Ask for a case-specific explanation of sentencing and restricted-license options.
A first DUI can affect driving privileges, insurance, employment, and professional licensing. The ten-year period used in some repeat-offense rules does not mean that a conviction automatically disappears from a criminal record. Take the charge seriously and review the consequences before making a plea decision.
Defense review may examine the initial stop, officer observations, field tests, breath-device records, blood testing, and the driving timeline. The evidence determines which challenges or negotiations are appropriate. Explore the DUI guides and bring your paperwork to a consultation.
For an administrative per se suspension, request a DMV hearing within 10 calendar days of receiving the suspension or revocation order. If you received the notice at arrest, count from your arrest date. Read the notice and seek advice promptly. Confirm any stay, temporary license, or restriction with DMV before driving. Read the official DMV guidance.
Find local DUI defense information for Pasadena, Glendale, Burbank, and Downtown Los Angeles:
Start with the after-arrest checklist, then review first-time DUI penalties and costs and IID and restricted-driving options.
A licensing action is possible, and the rules depend on your circumstances. A timely hearing request lets you contest an administrative suspension; restricted-license eligibility is a separate question. Confirm your status and any restrictions directly with DMV.
A reduction or dismissal may be possible when supported by the facts and law. An attorney can assess issues with the stop, arrest, testing, or other evidence. No particular result can be promised.
A lawyer can explain the charge, review the evidence, and advise you about court and DMV deadlines. If you cannot afford counsel, ask the criminal court about eligibility for appointed counsel. Do not assume that a first offense is consequence-free.
"I was arrested for DUI on my way home from a work event. I was terrified — I am a teacher and a conviction could have ended my career. Jack took my case seriously from the first phone call. He challenged the field sobriety test and found issues with the breathalyzer calibration. The charges were reduced to a wet reckless. I cannot thank him enough."
"I called Jack at 2 AM after my arrest and he actually answered. He explained everything clearly — the DMV hearing, the court process, what to expect. He got my charges reduced and I kept my license. If you are reading this after a DUI arrest, stop searching and call Jack."
"I blew a 0.09 and thought I was done. Jack found procedural errors in the traffic stop and got the entire case dismissed. He was worth every penny. Professional, thorough, and genuinely cared about my outcome."
"As a registered nurse, a DUI conviction would have triggered a review by the Board of Nursing. Jack understood the stakes and fought hard. He got the charges reduced and helped me navigate the professional licensing implications. I am so grateful."
"Jack was straightforward about what to expect and delivered on his promises. He kept me updated throughout the process and got my case resolved with minimal impact on my life. The only reason for 4 stars instead of 5 is that the process took longer than I hoped, but that was the court system, not Jack."
"I interviewed three attorneys before hiring Jack. He was the only one who actually listened to the details of my case and explained a specific strategy — not just generic reassurances. He delivered exactly what he promised. Case reduced to wet reckless, license saved."
"I was arrested after a checkpoint stop with a BAC of 0.10. Jack challenged the checkpoint procedures and the breathalyzer maintenance records. The result was better than I ever imagined — charges reduced, no jail time, restricted license only. Jack is exceptional."
Disclaimer: Client reviews are submitted voluntarily and reflect individual experiences. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Each case depends on its own facts and circumstances.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Bring your court and DMV paperwork to a consultation. Early review helps identify deadlines, evidence to preserve, and the options that may apply to your situation.
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