Getting arrested for DUI is stressful. When it happens far from home, it can feel even more confusing. If you’re an out-of-state driver who was charged with DUI while visiting Walnut Creek or the surrounding Bay Area, you may be wondering how a California arrest will affect your home-state license—and whether you’ll need to return for court. At The Law Offices of Johnson & Johnson, we defend non-resident drivers and help reduce the long-term consequences of a California DUI. Call us now to speak with an experienced DUI attorney.
What Happens if You’re Charged With DUI While Visiting Walnut Creek?
If you’re arrested for DUI in California, the fact that you live in another state doesn’t exempt you from local laws. California has jurisdiction over any offense that occurs within its borders. That means you can be arrested, booked, and required to appear in court—even if you plan to return home shortly afterward.
A DUI charge typically involves:
- An arrest and booking process by local law enforcement
- A citation or release with a mandatory court date in Contra Costa County
- An automatic DMV review and potential license suspension
- Potential jail time, probation, or mandatory classes
If you hire a local DUI defense attorney, we may be able to appear in court on your behalf for certain proceedings. This can reduce the need for you to travel back to Walnut Creek for every step in the process.
How a California DUI Affects Your Out-of-State License
California is part of the Interstate Driver’s License Compact (IDLC), an agreement among most states to share information about serious driving offenses, such as DUIs. If you’re convicted of a DUI in California, that information will likely be reported to your home state’s motor vehicle agency.
Depending on your home state’s laws, this could lead to:
- Suspension or revocation of your home-state driver’s license
- Points added to your driving record
- Mandatory DUI programs or reinstatement fees
- Higher insurance premiums
Each state responds differently. Some may impose the same penalties as if the offense had occurred locally, while others may handle it more leniently. We’ll help you understand how your home state may respond and work to reduce the impact.
DUI Penalties in Contra Costa County
A DUI conviction in California can lead to both criminal penalties and administrative actions through the DMV, regardless of your residency. These consequences can include:
- Fines and court fees
- License suspension (in California)
- Probation
- DUI education or alcohol treatment programs
- Jail time in some instances
If your BAC was high or there were aggravating factors—such as an accident, child passenger, or prior convictions—the penalties may be enhanced. Importantly, even if your home-state license is not suspended, you could still be barred from driving in California for a period of time.
Defending Against a DUI as an Out-of-State Driver
Just because you’ve been charged doesn’t mean you’ll be convicted. We look at every angle of your case to determine the strongest possible defense. That includes a detailed review of the traffic stop, testing procedures, and arrest process.
Common defenses may include:
- Illegal stop–No reasonable suspicion to pull you over
- Faulty testing–Breathalyzers or blood tests can produce inaccurate results
- Improper field sobriety tests–These are highly subjective and often misapplied
- Medical issues–Conditions like diabetes or fatigue may mimic signs of impairment
- Chain of custody problems–Mishandled evidence can lead to dismissal
We handle both the court case and the DMV process. Our goal is to protect your rights in California while minimizing the impact on your driving record back home.
Why Hire a Walnut Creek DUI Lawyer for an Out-of-State Case?
Handling a California DUI from another state can be nearly impossible on your own. Between court appearances, DMV deadlines, and understanding local procedures, it’s easy to make a costly mistake.
At The Law Offices of Johnson & Johnson, we’ve represented many out-of-state drivers facing DUI charges in Walnut Creek and Contra Costa County. We understand what’s at stake—and how to help you move forward.
Here’s what we bring to your defense:
- A clear explanation of your rights and obligations
- The ability to appear on your behalf in many court proceedings
- Local knowledge of Bay Area DUI courts and prosecutors
- A personalized defense strategy focused on minimizing penalties
- Communication with you every step of the way, wherever you are
You don’t have to handle this alone—and you don’t have to fly back for every court date.
Talk to a DUI Defense Attorney in California Today
If you were arrested for DUI while visiting Walnut Creek or the greater Bay Area, don’t delay. The consequences of doing nothing can follow you home and affect your driving privileges, employment, and insurance.
Contact The Law Offices of Johnson & Johnson today. We’ll guide you through your defense, advocate for your rights, and work to reduce the impact of a California DUI—no matter where you live.