A first-time DUI arrest in Riverside can feel scary, but you have options, and you do not have to face it alone. You have just 10 days to protect your license, so acting fast matters more than almost anything else right now.
The My Rights Law helps you fight your charges, protect your driving privileges, and work toward the best possible outcome. Our Riverside first-time DUI lawyer knows the local courts and knows how to challenge weak evidence.
Call us today at (951) 900-3335 for a free case evaluation.
Our team defends DUI and criminal cases in the Riverside County courts, so we know how local judges and prosecutors handle first-offense cases.
We fight to get charges dropped, dismissed, or reduced whenever the facts allow, and we prepare every case as if it could go to trial. You want someone who treats your future like it matters, and that is exactly what we do.
A first DUI arrest starts two separate cases at the same time: A criminal case in court and an administrative case with the DMV. Both move quickly, and both can affect your license, your record, and your freedom.
The criminal case handles the actual DUI charge under the law, and it decides whether you face fines, probation, DUI classes, or jail. This case runs through the Riverside court system, where a judge and prosecutor review the evidence against you.
The DMV case only deals with your driver's license, and it runs on its own schedule. You must request a DMV hearing within 10 days of your arrest, or you lose the chance to challenge the suspension.
My Rights Law is ready to fight for Your 1st Time DUI.
Most first-time DUI charges in California are misdemeanors, but certain facts can push a first offense up to a felony. The details of your arrest decide which path your case follows.
A first DUI is usually a misdemeanor when no one was hurt and no serious aggravating facts exist. Under California Vehicle Code § 23152, this covers most standard first-offense cases across Riverside County.
A first DUI can become a felony when the driving causes injury or death to another person. High-harm cases carry much heavier penalties, which is why strong defense from the start is so important.
Under California Vehicle Code § 23536, a first DUI conviction carries mandatory criminal and administrative penalties. Depending on the facts of your case, you may face:
A conviction may also result in:
A first DUI conviction may lead to:
The court may also order:
Depending on the circumstances, you may also face:
Your license faces two separate threats after a first DUI: One from the DMV and one from the court. Acting within the first 10 days gives you the best chance to protect your driving privileges.
You have only 10 days from your arrest to request a DMV hearing. Miss this window, and your suspension moves forward without any challenge from your side.
Under California Vehicle Code § 13353.2, a first offender with a BAC of 0.08% or higher faces a four-month administrative suspension. This suspension usually begins 30 days after the arrest.
Many first-time offenders can qualify for a restricted license that lets them drive to work and to DUI classes. The rules depend on your BAC and whether you refused testing.
Courts and the DMV may require an ignition interlock device before restoring driving privileges. This small device checks your breath before the car starts.
To get your full license back, you must finish your suspension, complete your DUI program, and pay reinstatement fees. Proof of insurance is also required before the DMV restores your privileges.
Under California's implied consent law in California Vehicle Code § 23612, drivers agree to chemical testing once lawfully arrested for DUI.
Refusing a required breath or blood test after arrest triggers a one-year license suspension, and you cannot get a restricted license during that time. A refusal can also be used against you in court, so the choice carries serious weight.
Prosecutors build their case using several types of evidence, and each one can be challenged:
The DMV hearing is separate from your criminal case, and you must request it within 10 days of your arrest. Losing this hearing can suspend your license, no matter what happens in criminal court.
The hearing decides whether the officer had a valid reason to stop and arrest you and whether your BAC was truly at or above the legal limit. These are the core questions the DMV must answer.
The DMV relies on the officer's sworn report, the arrest paperwork, and any chemical test results. We review each item closely for errors and gaps.
The hearing officer either upholds the suspension or sets it aside. A win here keeps your license active while your case continues.
If the decision goes against you, you may request a departmental review or challenge it in court. Quick action protects your remaining options.
A first DUI remains on your California driving record for 10 years for future DUI sentencing purposes. A criminal conviction may also remain on your record unless you later qualify for relief such as an expungement under California Penal Code § 1203.4, which can reduce some of the long-term consequences.
Several California laws shape a first DUI case, and they work together to create both criminal and administrative penalties.
California Vehicle Code § 23152 defines the DUI offense, while California Vehicle Code § 23536 sets the penalties for a first conviction. California Vehicle Code § 13353.2 controls the administrative suspension, and California Vehicle Code § 23612 sets the implied-consent rule, meaning refusal after a lawful arrest leads to an automatic suspension separate from your criminal case.
A skilled lawyer can protect your rights and improve your outcome in several ways:
A first DUI does not have to define your future, and the right help can make all the difference. Our Riverside first time DUI lawyer at My Rights Law is ready to protect your license, challenge the evidence, and fight for the best result in your Riverside case. Do not wait while the clock runs on your rights.
Call My Rights Law today at (951) 900-3335 for a free case evaluation, and let attorney Bobby Shamuilian and our team stand with you.
This page was written by the My Rights Law Editorial Team and reviewed for legal accuracy by Bobby Shamuilian.
Attorney Shamuilian is the founder and managing partner of My Rights Law and is widely recognized as a legal authority, frequently appearing as a legal analyst and TV pundit on national news outlets.
He has earned a perfect “10.0 – Top Attorney” rating on AVVO and a “10.0” rating on Justia, and has been named among the “Top 40 Under 40” and the “Top 100 Trial Lawyers” by The National Trial Lawyers.
With his proven expertise and dedication, Mr. Shamuilian is committed to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome for your case.
The last modified date shows when this page was most recently reviewed.
schedule a free confidential consultation
