First-Time DUI Defense Attorney in San Diego

Your Future is at Stake—We’ll Help Protect Your Rights and Keep You on the Road

  • 70% of DUI Arrests in California Lead to an Automatic License Suspension

    The DMV can suspend your license without a conviction, leaving you unable to drive for months. Acting quickly can help you challenge the suspension and potentially retain your driving privileges. Kersey Law can fight for you during the critical DMV hearing.

  • First-Time DUI Convictions Can Result in Fines Up to $1,000, Plus Court Costs

    Even a first DUI offense can come with significant financial consequences. Fines, court fees, and other penalties can add up quickly. Kersey Law fights to reduce or eliminate these fines, saving you from the burden of unnecessary costs.

  • 25% of First-Time DUI Offenders Face Jail Time Without a Strong Defense

    Though jail time for first offenses is rare, about one in four first-time offenders can face jail time without an experienced attorney. Kersey Law has a proven track record of helping clients avoid jail and keep their records clean.

If you’ve been arrested for a first-time DUI in San Diego, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about what lies ahead. The consequences of a DUI can be serious, but it’s important to remember that this doesn’t have to define your future. At Kersey Law, we have successfully defended countless first-time DUI cases, helping clients navigate the legal process and secure favorable outcomes.

You’ve made one mistake—we’re here to ensure it doesn’t follow you for a lifetime.

What Happens After a First-Time DUI Arrest?

A first-time DUI charge can have significant consequences, but it’s also a case where experienced legal defense can make all the difference. In California, penalties for a first DUI offense can include:

  • License Suspension

    The DMV can automatically suspend your driver’s license, and without the proper defense, this could impact your ability to work or manage daily responsibilities.

  • Fines

    First-time DUI convictions typically result in fines ranging from $390 to $1,000, not including court fees and penalty assessments.

  • Probation

    Most first-time offenders will be placed on probation for 3 to 5 years, which could limit your freedom and affect your personal and professional life.

  • DUI Education Program

    You will likely be required to attend a DUI education program, which can be anywhere from 3 to 9 months in length.

  • Jail Time

    While jail time is uncommon for first-time offenders, it is still a possibility, with sentences ranging from 48 hours to 6 months.

A first-time DUI arrest can be a shock, but the consequences don’t have to define your future. At Kersey Law, we turn uncertainty into opportunity, working to minimize the penalties and keep you on track for a clean record. With the right defense, we can help you overcome this obstacle and move forward with confidence.

Featured Client Story

Your Future Matters
Let Us Help You Protect It

PROTECT MY FUTURE

  • 24/7 Availability To Quickly Address Your Needs

    Our firm is available all hours of the day for your emergency needs should they arise as a client.

  • 15+ Years of Experience

    We have handled nearly every type of accusation, from misdemeanor marijuana charges to capital murder and everything in between.

  • We Return All Phone Calls Within Hours

    Unlike most firms who take days, weeks, or even months to respond to a client’s needs, we have a strict 24-hour business return phone call policy. You will hear from your law firm.

Why You Need an Experienced DUI Defense Attorney

We Fight to Keep You Out of Jail and Save Your License

At Kersey Law, we understand that the stakes are high. You’re worried about losing your license, paying heavy fines, or even facing jail time. But rest assured—our firm has the resources and experience to fight for you. Many first-time DUI cases result in reduced charges or even dismissals with the right legal strategy.

Navigating the DMV Hearing and Court Process

One of the most stressful parts of a DUI arrest is the DMV hearing, where your license is at risk. You have only 10 days from your arrest to request this hearing, and failing to act could result in an automatic license suspension. We’ll handle this process for you, ensuring every deadline is met and that your rights are fully protected throughout the legal proceedings.

PROTECT MY FUTURE

The stakes are high, but so are your chances of success with the right defense team. At Kersey Law, we don’t just represent you in court—we fight to protect your freedom, your license, and your future. Our experienced attorneys know the intricacies of DUI law, and we use every resource available to challenge the evidence and secure the best possible outcome.

Common Defenses in First-Time DUI Cases

Our firm takes a strategic approach to every DUI case, crafting a defense based on the specific circumstances of your arrest. Some common defenses we employ in first-time DUI cases include:

  • 1. Challenging the Validity of the Traffic Stop

    Was there probable cause for the officer to pull you over? If not, we can argue that the stop was unlawful and the evidence gathered during the stop should be suppressed.

  • 2. Questioning the Accuracy of Field Sobriety Tests

    Field sobriety tests are notoriously unreliable. Factors such as poor weather conditions, uneven ground, or medical conditions could have affected your performance. We’ll examine the conditions of your test and challenge the results if needed.

  • 3. Investigating the Breathalyzer Results

    Breathalyzer machines are prone to error. Calibration issues, improper use, or even medical conditions like acid reflux can lead to inaccurate results. Our team will scrutinize the machine's records and the test administration process to ensure accuracy.

  • 4. Contesting Blood Test Evidence

    Even blood tests, often seen as more reliable, can be flawed due to improper storage, contamination, or mishandling. We’ll examine all procedures used in your test to ensure your results are scientifically sound.

Every DUI case is different, but at Kersey Law, we approach each one with the same goal: to get charges reduced or dismissed. Whether it’s challenging the validity of the stop or questioning the accuracy of the breathalyzer, we leave no stone unturned in building a defense that works for you.

The Importance of Hiring a First-Time DUI Attorney

A first-time DUI charge may seem minor compared to other criminal offenses, but the repercussions can affect your life for years. Without proper legal representation, you could face:

  • A criminal record that may limit your job prospects and impact your personal life.

  • An extended license suspension that makes it difficult to commute or maintain your employment.

  • Higher insurance rates or even the loss of your insurance altogether.

At Kersey Law, we know how to fight for you, and we work tirelessly to minimize these outcomes, giving you the best possible chance to move forward without long-term consequences.

A first-time DUI might seem like a minor offense, but the impact on your life can be far-reaching. At Kersey Law, we understand how much is at stake, and we take an aggressive, strategic approach to keep this from becoming a permanent mark on your record. Don’t let one mistake dictate your future—we’re here to help you fight back.

Featured Client Story

Your Future Matters
Let Us Help You Protect It

PROTECT MY FUTURE

  • 24/7 Availability To Quickly Address Your Needs

    Our firm is available all hours of the day for your emergency needs should they arise as a client.

  • 15+ Years of Experience

    We have handled nearly every type of accusation, from misdemeanor marijuana charges to capital murder and everything in between.

  • We Return All Phone Calls Within Hours

    Unlike most firms who take days, weeks, or even months to respond to a client’s needs, we have a strict 24-hour business return phone call policy. You will hear from your law firm.

Frequently Asked Questions About First-Time DUIs

This section provides answers to common questions about the legal process, how a first-time DUI can affect your personal and professional life, and the crucial steps you can take to safeguard your driving privileges, your reputation, and your future.

You could, but it’s not guaranteed. With the right defense strategy, we can fight to keep your license during the DMV hearing and throughout the court process.

In California, a DUI stays on your record for 10 years. However, depending on the case, we may be able to get the charges reduced or dismissed, lessening the long-term impact on your record.

Jail time is possible but not typical for first-time offenders. With proper representation, we can often negotiate alternatives like probation or community service instead of jail time.

A skilled DUI attorney will navigate both the DMV hearing and the criminal court case, challenging the evidence against you and advocating for a reduction or dismissal of charges. At Kersey Law, we work to protect your license, your freedom, and your future.

Contact Kersey Law Today for a Free Consultation

If you’ve been arrested for a first-time DUI, don’t wait to get help. Contact Kersey Law today to schedule a free consultation. We’ll review your case, answer your questions, and develop a defense strategy designed to protect your rights, your license, and your future.

Call us today at 619-329-8385 or fill out our online form to get started.

Why Kersey Law is the Right Choice for High-Stakes Criminal Defense

  • Protecting Your Reputation and Career—We Know What’s at Stake

    When your career, reputation, and future are on the line, there’s no room for mistakes. At Kersey Law, we understand that losing is not an option. We take a proactive and discreet approach to every case, ensuring your professional standing is safeguarded at every step. Your case will be handled with the utmost confidentiality, ensuring that your public and private life remain intact. For clients with the highest stakes, we focus on delivering the exceptional outcomes you deserve.

  • 24/7 Availability—We Are Here When You Need Us Most

    Legal emergencies don’t wait for business hours, and neither do we. As a client of Kersey Law, you’ll have access to 24/7 availability for urgent matters. We’re here when you need us, ensuring that critical situations are addressed immediately. Whether it’s the middle of the night or the weekend, you can count on us to be there and act quickly. This level of support is vital when everything is on the line.

  • Our Experience—Proven Results in High-Stakes Cases

    Kersey Law has defended nearly every type of criminal accusation, from misdemeanors to capital offenses. Whether you’re facing charges like Sexual Assault, DWI, or even Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, our team has the experience and expertise to handle the most complex, high-stakes cases. We’ve built a proven track record of success in defending clients whose futures depend on the outcome. Trust us to use every tool at our disposal to fight for you.

  • We Return All Phone Calls Within Hours—Because Your Case Deserves Immediate Attention

    Unlike many firms that leave clients waiting for days or weeks, we have a strict 24-hour callback policy. Your calls will be returned within hours, ensuring that you’re never left in the dark. We understand the urgency of your situation, and we pride ourselves on keeping the lines of communication open. Your case is our top priority, and you’ll always know where things stand.

  • Strategic, Relentless Defense—We Go Above and Beyond

    At Kersey Law, we go above and beyond to provide a strategic, personalized defense tailored to your specific situation. Our attorneys take the time to fully understand your case and work tirelessly to develop a strategy that aligns with your goals. We’re relentless in our pursuit of the best possible outcomes and leave no stone unturned in defending your rights and future. When you hire us, you can rest assured that your case is in the hands of a legal team committed to delivering excellence.

When everything is on the line, you need a legal team that will protect your future, fight tirelessly for the best outcome, and be by your side at every step.

PROTECT MY FUTURE

How to Navigate and Overcome a DUI Charge in California

Explore the resources you need to strengthen your defense with Kersey Law. Visit our resource center to access educational videos, client success stories, and essential information to help you navigate the legal process and protect your driving privileges.

Featured Blog

How it works

It’s easy to get started.
Invest in Your Defense. Protect Your Future.

Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.

Step 1

Request a FREE Case Review

With a free case evaluation, discussing your case details is simple with Kersey Law.

Step 2

We Build Your Defense

If we take on the case, our team will begin an in-depth investigation and craft a personalized defense strategy based on the unique aspects of your situation.

Step 3

We Fight for You

Our dedicated team will vigorously defend your rights and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome.

The truth is, without a strategic defense strategy, you're missing out on a powerful tool to protect your future and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

YES, I WANT A POWERFUL DEFENSE STRATEGY! SIGN ME UP!

See what others have to say about Building a Winning Defense Strategy that Protects Your Future.

Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.

4.9

149 Google Reviews

I have no other words to describe Kersey Law group but “”Superb grateful excellent!!””. I’m tearing up writing this because when you are in a difficult situation and you hope and pray that you can have full confidence that your lawyer will truly have your back and take care of you - this was our experience 110% with Kersey. The professionalism Kersey brought to the table, his expertise with confidence and even kindness cannot be matched. He was not only considerate, but takes the time to communicate fully, detailed on what’s needed and does an amazing job handling our case. We truly are very thankful and are appreciative of such a stellar law firm. God bless you.
Ani W
I am more than grateful with the outcome of my case. Upon meeting with Mr.Kersey and his team they gave me a great feeling of reassurance, trust, and belief in which played a major role in why I would definitely recommend the Kersey firm to anyone in need of legal representation. They work fast and efficiently to get you the best results possible.When your freedom is in jeopardy and your truth is being questioned having someone fight for you and win is more than an outstanding feeling which is exactly what Mr.Kersey delivered. I was wrongly accused of charges and placed under arrest and put in jail for a charge that would have violated my probation.The end results were Mr. Kersey had all the charges dropped and my probation was rightfully terminated. I send nothing but my highest regards respects and gratitude to Mr. Kersey thanks again
Richard Avery
Truly amazing experience! In our time of need Michelle Boss, Marisa, and Nathan came through for us (my nephew and I) in a major way. All charges were dropped and we were able to resume our lives. This team actually cares, were very attentive, the pricing was more than reasonable and they communicated with us every step of the way. Marisa, Nathan and Michelle definitely put my initially fears and doubts about our situation to rest as we proceeded with our case. I had total confidence in my team and the desired outcome was met. If you ever find yourself in need I highly recommend this law firm.
Jo R

Recent Client Victories and Case Highlights

Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.

Charges Case Details Outcome Date of Resolution
Harassment and Stalking
After a personal dispute escalated into serious legal allegations, the client was left feeling betrayed by both a former friend and their initial legal representation. Dissatisfied with the suggestion of a diversion program, the client sought out Kersey Law for a more aggressive defense. Through meticulous case review and strategic legal action, Kersey Law dismantled the false claims, leading to a full dismissal of all charges. This case underscores the importance of skilled legal representation when facing unfounded accusations.
Charges Dropped
August, 21th 2024
Felony Carjacking
When our client walked into our office, the stakes couldn’t have been higher. Charged with carjacking under Penal Code 215, with allegations of personal infliction of great bodily injury and the use of a knife, he faced an uphill battle. On top of that, four aggravating factors were in play, threatening to make him eligible for the maximum sentence of 16 years and 8 months in prison. Adding to the complexity, he had another case that could have added two more years if found guilty.
Not Guilty
July, 16th 2024
Attempted Murder, Shooting at an Inhabited Dwelling, Firearm-Related Offenses
As a criminal defense attorney, I often encounter cases that test the very fabric of justice. One such case involved a young male client facing serious charges, including attempted murder, shooting at an inhabited dwelling, and various firearm-related offenses. The severity of these charges meant that my client was looking at a potential life sentence, with an additional 20-year firearm enhancement, leading to a daunting prospect of over 30 years to life in prison.
Reduced to Lesser Charges With Two Years of Probation
December, 5th 2023

Fighting Criminal Charges In California

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619-329-8385
619-329-8385
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