Long Beach DUI Defense Lawyer
Protect your license and your record. The clock on your DMV hearing starts the day you are arrested.
DUI Defense
How We Help With DUI Defense
A DUI arrest in California sets two separate cases in motion at once. The first is the criminal case filed in superior court, where the prosecutor must prove the charge. The second is an administrative case at the DMV that decides whether your driving privilege is suspended — and it moves on its own timeline, regardless of what happens in court.
To challenge the automatic suspension, you typically must request a DMV hearing within 10 days of your arrest. Miss that window and the suspension usually takes effect without a hearing. That is why we review your deadlines in the very first conversation.
California's general legal limit is a 0.08% blood alcohol concentration, but it is lower for some drivers: 0.04% for commercial drivers and 0.01% for drivers under 21. You can also be charged with driving under the influence of drugs, including prescription medication. Attorney George L. Fernandez examines every step — the reason for the stop, the field sobriety tests, how breath or blood samples were collected and tested — to find the problems in the prosecution's case.
What We Handle
DUI Cases We Handle
- First-time DUI
- Repeat DUI
- DUI with injury
- Felony DUI
- Underage DUI
- Commercial driver DUI
- Drug-impaired driving
- Breath and blood test challenges
- DMV license hearings
Our Process
What Happens Next
- 1
Immediate case and DMV deadline review
We confirm your court date and the deadline to request your DMV hearing, and protect both.
- 2
Challenge the stop, testing and evidence
We review the stop, field tests, breath and blood procedures, calibration records and video.
- 3
Negotiate, litigate or take to trial
We push for a reduction or dismissal where the evidence allows, and prepare for trial if needed.
FAQ
DUI Defense Questions
Should I refuse a breath test?
The small roadside breath screening is generally optional for adult drivers who are not on probation for DUI. After a lawful arrest, however, California's implied consent law requires a chemical test, and refusing usually leads to a longer license suspension and can be used against you in court.
Will I lose my license?
Not necessarily. An arrest typically triggers an automatic suspension, but you can request a DMV hearing to challenge it — usually within 10 days. Depending on the case, you may also qualify for a restricted license.
What happens at the DMV hearing?
A DMV hearing officer reviews whether the stop and arrest were lawful and whether your blood alcohol level was over the limit (or whether you refused testing). We can review evidence, question witnesses and argue that the suspension should be set aside.
Can a DUI be reduced?
In some cases a DUI can be reduced to a lesser offense, such as a 'wet reckless,' or dismissed, especially when there are problems with the stop or testing. Outcomes depend on the evidence and your record.
How does a DUI affect insurance and jobs?
A DUI conviction can raise insurance premiums, require an SR-22 filing and show up on background checks. It can also affect professional licenses and jobs that involve driving, which is why fighting the charge matters.
What if I wasn't driving?
The prosecution must prove you were driving while impaired. If you were parked, sleeping in the car, or someone else was driving, that may be a defense. The specific facts matter, so talk to a lawyer before assuming you have no case.
Keep Reading
Related Pages
Client Reviews
What Our Clients Say on Google
“My husband and I are very thankful for all of the help that Mr. Fernandez gave us with representing my husband in a case where he was innocent. We live in GA but the case was in LA and Mr. Fernandez helped ease our mind that our case could very easily be handled. He was very professional, his team was always there to help guide us and answer our questions during the process of this very stressful time for us.”
Sarah SalazarGoogle review · “Attorney George Fernandez returned my phone call promptly and represented me in court on short notice. He did a 5-star stellar job on a complicated case. I will definitely retain him in the future. I'm very grateful to Attorney Fernandez for his expertise and willingness to represent me on such short notice, and with such a positive outcome.”
gina joeGoogle review · “Attorney George L Fernandez has helped I and my family tremendously with our eviction case. He is a very professional and great attorney it was a pleasure doing business with him. I would definitely recommend attorney George Fernandez to anyone in need.”
william washingtonGoogle review ·
Reviews reflect individual experiences; prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Talk to a Lawyer About Your Situation
Your first consultation is free. Call or book online and we will review your options with you in plain English — en español también.