DUI Lawyer in Modesto, California

California has some of the country’s toughest laws to penalize DUI offenders. Those who have multiple prior DUIs on their record can face a felony and jail time. The serious nature of this offense underscores the importance of retaining the best legal representation you can get.  

The consequences of a DUI conviction can have lasting impacts on your life, including your career, finances, and personal freedom. Attorney Ryan Roth at Roth Legal, A Professional Law Corporation, provides high-quality representation to people facing DUI charges. As a DUI attorney in Modesto, California, Attorney Ryan Roth serves clients throughout the state, including Manteca, Merced, and Stockton.  

What Is Considered DUI in California? 

DUI stands for "driving under the influence," and it refers to operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. In California, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is  

• 0.08% for drivers aged 21 and over;  

• 0.04% for commercial drivers; and  

• 0.01% for drivers under 21.  

California law also recognizes DUI as driving under the influence of drugs, whether they are prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, or illegal substances. Even if a driver’s BAC is below the legal limit, they can still be charged with DUI if their ability to drive safely is impaired. 

Attorney Ryan Roth emphasizes that DUI laws in California are strict and vigorously enforced. Understanding these laws and how they apply to your situation is the first step in building a strong defense against DUI charges. 

What Happens if You Refuse to Take a Blood or Breath Test for Alcohol? 

In California, drivers are required by law to submit to chemical testing if they face a lawful arrest for DUI. This is known as the “implied consent” law, which means that by driving in the state, you agree to take a blood or breath test if suspected of drunk driving. 

A refusal to take a blood or breath test can lead to serious consequences. First and foremost, the refusal can be used as evidence against you in court, suggesting that you knew you were impaired. Additionally, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will automatically suspend your driver’s license for one year for a first refusal, two years for a second refusal within ten years, and three years for a third refusal within ten years. 

Refusing to submit to a chemical test can also add more time in jail to your original sentence. Those “refusal enhancements” include an additional 48 hours in jail for your first DUI, 96 hours for a second DUI, 10 days for a third DUI, and 18 days for a fourth or subsequent DUI.  

Potential Penalties for DUI in California 

The penalties for a DUI conviction in California can vary depending on several factors, including your BAC level, prior DUI convictions, and whether any aggravating circumstances were present. However, even a first-time DUI offense carries severe consequences. 

For a first DUI offense, potential penalties include: 

• Fines ranging from $390 to $1,000 

• License suspension for six months 

• Mandatory DUI education program 

• Probation for three to five years 

• Possible jail time of up to six months 

Subsequent DUI offenses result in harsher penalties, such as longer license suspensions, increased fines, longer mandatory DUI programs, and extended jail time. Aggravating factors, such as having a BAC of 0.15% or higher, causing an accident, or having a minor in the vehicle, can lead to enhanced penalties. 

Attorney Ryan Roth stresses the importance of understanding the gravity of DUI charges and the long-term impact they can have on your life. Building a robust defense with the help of a Modesto DUI attorney is critical to mitigating these penalties. 

Defense Strategies to Beat a DUI Charge 

Beating a DUI charge requires a strategic and knowledgeable approach. Attorney Ryan Roth employs several defense strategies tailored to the specifics of each case to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and protect clients' rights. 

Some common defense strategies include: 

• Challenging the traffic stop: Questioning whether the officer had a valid reason to pull you over. 

• Questioning the accuracy of BAC tests: Arguing that breathalyzers or blood tests were improperly administered or faulty. 

• Disputing field sobriety tests: Contending that field sobriety tests were inaccurately performed or affected by external factors. 

• Highlighting medical conditions: Demonstrating that certain medical conditions may have affected test results. 

• Violation of rights: Proving that your constitutional rights were violated during the arrest or testing process. 

Attorney Ryan Roth’s extensive experience and deep understanding of criminal defense enables him to identify the most effective defense strategies for each client, aiming to reduce or dismiss charges whenever possible. 

Why Hire a Modesto DUI Attorney?  

Facing DUI charges without professional legal representation can be risky. Here are five compelling reasons to hire a DUI attorney like Attorney Ryan Roth: 

• Knowledge of the legal system: DUI attorneys possess in-depth knowledge of DUI laws and legal procedures, ensuring your defense is built on a strong foundation. 

• Strategic defense: An experienced attorney can craft a strategic defense tailored to the specifics of your case, increasing your chances of a favorable outcome. 

• Negotiate plea deals: Attorneys can negotiate plea deals or reduced charges, potentially minimizing the impact on your life. 

• Protect your rights: A DUI attorney will ensure the protection of your rights throughout the legal process. 

• Reduce stress: A DUI attorney provides guidance and support, reducing the stress associated with the legal proceedings in your case. 

Whether it’s your first, second, or any subsequent DUI charges, you could benefit from hiring a California DUI attorney. No matter the situation, Attorney Ryan Roth provides clients with the highest quality representation to ensure they are treated fairly during their cases.  

Why Choose Roth Legal, A Professional Law Corporation? 

When it comes to defending clients against DUI charges, Roth Legal, A Professional Law Corporation, stands out for several reasons: 

• Trusted defense since 2013: Attorney Ryan Roth has been providing dedicated DUI defense services for more than a decade, earning a reputation for excellence. 

• High DUI dismissal rate: With a focus on achieving the best possible outcomes, Attorney Ryan Roth has successfully secured numerous DUI dismissals for clients. 

• Aggressive defense of your driving privileges: Protecting your driving privileges is a top priority, and Attorney Ryan Roth employs aggressive strategies to prevent license suspension. 

• Client-centric approach: At Roth Legal, A Professional Law Corporation, clients are treated with respect and empathy, ensuring that their concerns are heard and addressed throughout the legal process. 

• High ethical standards: Guided by high ethical standards, Attorney Ryan Roth ensures that every case is handled with integrity and professionalism. 

A DUI conviction can have a lasting impact on many aspects of your life, which is why you cannot take chances with just any attorney. You want an attorney who truly has what it takes to get you the best results.