Being charged with driving under the influence (DUI) in Contra Costa County can be one of the most stressful experiences of your life. Whether it’s your first offense or you’ve faced prior DUI charges, the consequences can be severe—license suspension, heavy fines, increased insurance premiums, and even jail time. At The Law Offices of Johnson & Johnson in Walnut Creek, we know how much is at stake. Our experienced DUI defense attorneys are here to help you navigate the process and fight for the best possible outcome.
California Driving Under the Influence Defense, 2024-2025 ed.
California Driving Under the Influence Defense, 2020-2021 ed. provides step-by-step instruction in defense of a driving-under-the-influence case in California. It outlines what to anticipate and how to prepare for DUI/DWI pretrial and trial proceedings.
What Happens After a DUI Arrest?
In California, a DUI arrest triggers two separate processes:
- Criminal Proceedings in court, where you face charges that can result in fines, probation, or jail.
- Administrative Action by the DMV, which can suspend your driver’s license automatically unless you request a hearing within 10 days of your arrest.
This 10-day window is critical. If you miss it, your license may be suspended even before your court date. Our team helps clients request a DMV hearing and handles all aspects of the administrative process to preserve your right to drive.
First-Time DUI vs. Repeat Offense
California takes DUI enforcement seriously, and penalties increase with each offense:
- First Offense: Up to six months in jail, license suspension, DUI education classes, fines, and probation
- Second Offense: Increased jail time, longer license suspension, longer DUI education programs, and installation of an ignition interlock device
- Third or Subsequent Offense: Potential felony charges, long-term license revocation, and more severe penalties
No matter where you fall on this spectrum, our attorneys are committed to providing aggressive, personalized representation.
Building a Strong DUI Defense
At the Law Offices of Johnson & Johnson, we understand that a DUI charge doesn’t mean you’re guilty. Many DUI arrests in Walnut Creek and surrounding areas stem from traffic stops or checkpoints where mistakes can be made. We thoroughly investigate every aspect of your arrest, including:
- The legality of the traffic stop
- Calibration and administration of breathalyzer or blood tests
- Field sobriety test procedures
- Witness statements and officer conduct
If law enforcement violated your rights or failed to follow proper protocol, we may be able to challenge the evidence or even get the charges dismissed.
Why Local Experience Matters
Walnut Creek is part of a larger DUI enforcement area that includes frequent sobriety checkpoints throughout Contra Costa County. Our attorneys have practiced in local courthouses for decades, including the Martinez courthouse, and know how prosecutors and judges approach DUI cases. This insight allows us to develop strategies that are both legally sound and locally informed.
We also understand the impact a DUI can have on your daily life. Walnut Creek residents often rely on their vehicles for commuting, school pickups, or traveling to nearby communities like Pleasant Hill and Lafayette. Protecting your driving privileges is one of our top priorities.
Compassionate Guidance Every Step of the Way
Being arrested for DUI can feel overwhelming and isolating, but you don’t have to go through it alone. From your DMV hearing to your court appearances, we walk you through each stage of the process and ensure that your rights are always protected. We take the time to answer your questions, explain your options, and keep you informed so you can make confident decisions about your case.
Call the Law Offices of Johnson & Johnson Today
A DUI arrest in Contra Costa County doesn’t have to define your future. The Law Offices of Johnson & Johnson in Walnut Creek is here to provide aggressive, strategic DUI defense tailored to your unique situation. Contact us today for a confidential consultation—because every detail matters when your future is on the line.
The Law Office of Johnson & Johnson is based in Walnut Creek and proudly serves clients throughout the Bay Area. We represent individuals across Contra Costa County, Alameda County, Napa County, Solano County, Santa Clara County, San Joaquin County, Sonoma County, and San Francisco. Our service areas include cities such as Concord, Martinez, Lafayette, Pleasant Hill, San Ramon, Richmond, Antioch, Pittsburg, Clayton, San Pablo, Oakland, Hayward, Brentwood, and Stockton.