Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) limit in California?
If your BAC is 0.08% or over, and you are pulled over and tested by a law enforcement agent, you can be charged with DUI in California. Drunk driving is a very serious charge and as a result, Orange County law enforcement officers are cracking down on driving under the influence. If you have been charged or arrested for driving drunk, you need to speak with an attorney immediately to ensure that your rights are upheld.
What is the Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) limit in California for a driver under 21?
California operates under a strict zero-tolerance law regarding minors and people under the age of 21. If you have a BAC of 0.01%, you can be cited for DUI. If your BAC is 0.05% or over, you can be arrested at the scene. Law enforcement agencies are very strict on underage drunk driving, and your license will be automatically suspended for at least a year if you are convicted.
My child is under 21 and was arrested for driving drunk. What do I do?
You should speak with an Orange County underage DUI attorney as soon as possible. Your son or daughter could face very strict penalties and it could result in a permanent criminal mark on your child’s record. Our founding attorney has over 30 years experience in handling DUI charges in California, and we understand that your child’s future is important. That’s why we will fight hard to get the underage DUI charges lessened or thrown out when possible.
Do I really need a lawyer if I was arrested for DUI?
You are not required to have an attorney if you have been charged with drunk driving. However, if your driving privileges and freedom are important to you, you might want to consider working with an experienced and dedicated Orange County DUI lawyer who can help you throughout your case. We at the Law Offices of Thomas Tears believe that the outcome of your case very much depends upon the dedication, commitment and personal attention given by your attorney. That is why Mr. Tears will personally handle every case that comes through the firm.
This is my second DUI. What can I expect?
If you have been charged with a second DUI in one ten year period, you can expect to face harsh consequences. The mandated state penalties are: 3-5 years probation, 2 years license suspension, 18 month alcohol programs and fines over $1000. You are also looking at jail time for anywhere from 96 hours to one year. If this is your second, third or fourth DUI, you definitely need to speak with an attorney immediately in order to maximize your chances of avoiding a very harsh sentence.
Will I go to jail if I have been charged with DUI?
Not necessarily, though it is a possibility. In order to give you a better idea of what exactly to expect from your DUI charge, you should meet with a qualified Orange County DUI attorney.We have years of experience and your initial consultation with our legal team will be at no cost to you. Your freedom is at risk when you have been charged with DUI and it is your best interests to speak with a lawyer who can help you.
Why do I have to go to a DMV hearing?
The DMV hearing is the administrative part of the process. This is where your driving freedom will be determined. Your license could be suspended or revoked during this hearing, so it would be very wise to have a DMV hearing lawyer with you to help fight for your right to operate a motor vehicle.
Contact Orange County DUI Attorney Thomas Tears to get legal advice and representation for your California DUI charge.