I've Been Arrested. What's Next?

What To Do After a DUI

If this is your first DUI arrest, you may be unsure what happens next. Even if this is not your first drunk driving allegation, Gold & Witham is here to walk you through the process to ensure that you get the best case outcome.

Step 1 – Notice of Suspension

By law, your arresting officer must send you a copy of your notice of arrest as well as a notice of suspension or revocation. After a drunk driving arrest, law enforcement notifies the DMV. The DMV will then start the administrative per se (APS) process. The Notice of Suspension you will receive is a copy of what your arresting officer sends the DMV.

On this notice, you will be informed of your right to request a DMV hearing to discuss the status of your driving privileges. You only have 10 days from the date of your arrest to request this hearing. If you do not request this hearing, you will not be able to drive once your temporary license expires unless you secure restricted driving privileges.

Step 2 – Attend Your Court Hearing

After your arrest and formal DUI charge, you will be given a date to appear in court. This is different than the DMV hearing, which is an administrative matter only concerning your license. This is the actual criminal hearing. Because it is a criminal hearing, failure to appear will likely result in a bench warrant – a warrant for your arrest.

Step 3 – Sentencing

If you are found guilty of DUI or you plead guilty, you will then have to appear for sentencing. This is where the judge explains to you the penalties and conditions you will have to meet as a consequence for the offense. Sentencing can include jail time, fines, probation, ignition interlock device (IID) installation, community service, DUI school, and more. Your sentence will be proportionate to the charge of which you are convicted.

How a DUI Defense Attorney Can Help

If you have been arrested for drunk driving, we don't want you to go through the process alone. Before you do anything, and before too much time elapses, contact a Los Angeles DUI lawyer at our firm. Gold & Witham has more than 40 years of experience and proven defense methods that we can use to secure the best possible result on your behalf. Call us today for a free consultation to learn how we can help!