Hollister, California DUI Lawyer

In California, driving under the influence (DUI) means operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. 

This includes if you drive:

• With a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or more;
• Under the influence of alcohol, regardless of BAC, if your ability to drive is impaired;
• Under the influence of drugs (prescription or otherwise);
• A commercial vehicle with a BAC of 0.04%; and
• Being under 21 and having any measurable alcohol in your system.

If an accident causes injury, prosecutors may file felony DUI charges under California law.

Impaired Driving Realities in Hollister

In 2024, the Hollister Police Department reported 173 DUI arrests. Many of these cases involve residents pulled over for DUI near the notorious stretches of Highway 25 or Union Road late at night, where law enforcement actively patrols for impaired drivers.

Even well-respected individuals, such as parents, professionals, and college students, can face severe criminal charges for a single error in judgment.

What to Do After a DUI Arrest in Hollister

Being arrested doesn’t mean you’re guilty. 

Taking the following steps can protect your rights:

• Write down everything you remember, such as where, when, and how the stop occurred;
• Avoid discussing your case with anyone except your attorney;
• Attend all scheduled court dates or hearings; and
• Contact the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) immediately to request a hearing within 10 days.

It’s also important to understand that DUI cases unfold on two tracks: criminal court and administrative DMV proceedings. A California DUI attorney will manage both sides of your case to protect your license and build the best defense possible.

Potential Penalties for a California DUI Conviction

The penalties for DUI in California are strict and escalate with prior convictions or aggravating circumstances. 

Even a first offense can trigger significant consequences:

• Fines and penalty assessments—often totaling $1,800 or more;
• Mandatory DUI education programs—typically three to nine months in duration;
• Driver’s license suspension—four months or longer through the DMV;
• Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID)—required for many drivers, even on a first offense; and
• Jail time or probation—up to six months for first-time offenders.

Repeat offenses, high BAC levels, refusal to submit to chemical testing, or cases involving injury can lead to longer license suspensions, harsher jail sentences, and even felony charges.

DMV Administrative Actions

The DMV can suspend your license even if your court case is still pending. To dispute the suspension of your driver’s license, you must request a DMV hearing within 10 days of your arrest. Failure to make this request can result in the automatic suspension of your license without any opportunity for appeal.

How a California DUI Attorney Can Help You

A charge is not the same as a conviction. Working with a seasoned Hollister DUI lawyer can make a dramatic difference in the outcome of your case. 

An attorney can:

• Request and represent you at your DMV hearing to challenge license suspension;
• Review police reports, bodycam footage, and chemical test results for legal errors;
• File motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence;
• Negotiate for reduced charges, diversion programs, or alternative sentencing; and
• Defend you at trial if the prosecution’s case is weak or flawed.

Even if you believe the evidence is strong, there may be issues with how the police handled your arrest or testing. Breathalyzer devices must meet accuracy standards and other procedures established by law. You can challenge your test results if law enforcement fails to follow proper protocols.

Legal Defenses to California DUI Charges

The right defense depends on the facts of your case, but several common strategies may apply, including:

• Improper stop. If law enforcement didn’t have reasonable suspicion to pull you over, any evidence gathered may be inadmissible.
• Faulty breath or blood tests. Test results may be inaccurate for several reasons, including improper calibration, sample contamination, or underlying medical conditions.
• Rising BAC. Your BAC may have been below the legal limit while driving but increased after your traffic stop.
• No driving observed. If the officer didn’t see you driving, proving you controlled the vehicle may be difficult.

A strong defense begins with a detailed investigation by a qualified DUI lawyer in California who understands the science, procedures, and legal standards involved. With their insight, they can help build a strong defense strategy tailored to your specific situation.