DUI Defense

Bakersfield DUI Defense Lawyer

DUI Defense Attorney in Kern County

Contact Us | Resources | Give Us a Call

If you have recently been arrested for driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, we strongly advise you to retain the immediate representation of Middlebrook & Associates. With our extensive experience and track record of success, you can be confident in our ability to defend your rights.

Middlebrook & Associates has decades of combined legal experience and has been given the highest possible rating in both legal ability and ethical standards by Martindale-Hubbell. We understand how to build personal relationships with our clients that allow us to create strong and effective defenses for their cases. We are not afraid of a tough prosecution and never back down from even the most severe criminal accusations. If you wish to learn more about the particular benefits of working with a DUI attorney, get in touch with our firm as soon as possible. We will build effective defense strategies on your behalf and help you understand the DUI court process and DMV hearings.

Our Bakersfield DUI lawyer will utilize and exhaust each of our resources in order to secure a favorable outcome on your behalf. When you retain our representation, you can be confident that you will receive the personalized legal solutions that you need and the supportive assistance that you deserve.

Take the first step to protecting your future by scheduling a FREE consultation with a Kern County lawyer today!

Continue Reading Read Less

DUI Cases We Handle

Over 250 Trials Successfully Handled

View All Services

Recent Case Results

97.4% Trial Success Rate for Our Clients

DMV v. Jerry R.
.27 Second DUI. License reinstated without suspension. Pending Criminal Case.
DMV v. Janice JH.
.16 DUI Set aside on 1280 grounds. Trial scheduled.
DMV v. Isiah S.
Set aside license suspension on 1280 grounds.
Cristal C
Client arrested for .13/.13 breath case. RESULT: : Dismissed DUI for wet reckless and kept driver’s license without suspension, restrictions or classes.
Cisneros, et al. v. DMV
Confirms Vehicle Code 11524c doesn’t apply to DMV proceedings
B.P.
Drunk in public. Case dismissed after one year of no further convictions.

More Case Results

You Can Not Afford To Plead Guilty for a DUI Charge

After being arrested, we understand that you are likely experiencing a great deal of fear and anxiety about your future and freedom. As such, we will do everything within our power to help you obtain a sense of ease amidst this difficult and trying time. In order to do so, we will thoroughly review your case, inform you of your rights and legal options, and guide you down the avenue that best suits your needs. At Middlebrook & Associates, our clients are our top priority before building their defense. We address their concerns first because they matter most.

What is Considered DUI in California?

In California, Driving Under the Influence (DUI) typically refers to operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or both.

Here are some key points that define a DUI in California:

Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC): For adult drivers who are 21 years and older, a BAC of 0.08% or higher is considered per se (by itself) evidence of a DUI. For commercial drivers, the BAC limit is 0.04%. For drivers under the age of 21, a BAC of 0.01% or higher can lead to a DUI charge due to California's "zero-tolerance" laws for underage drinking and driving.
Impaired Driving: Even if a driver's BAC is below the legal limit, they can still be charged with a DUI if their driving ability is impaired due to the consumption of alcohol, drugs (including prescription and over-the-counter medication), or a combination of both.
Drug-Related DUI: In California, it's also illegal to drive under the influence of drugs (DUID). This includes not only illegal drugs but also legal prescription and over-the-counter medications if they impair your ability to drive safely.
Felony DUI: In some cases, a DUI can be charged as a felony in California. This typically happens if the driver has multiple prior DUI convictions, if the DUI incident resulted in injury or death, or if the driver has a previous felony DUI conviction.
Aggravated DUI: Certain factors can lead to enhanced penalties for a DUI in California. These include having a BAC of 0.15% or higher, speeding, having a minor under 14 in the car, refusing to take a chemical test, or having prior DUI convictions.

Always consult with a legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

Are you Facing DUI Charges?

We represent individuals accused of the following:

Additionally, we are prepared to provide legal counsel for individuals dealing with the following:

While most drunk driving-related offenses are charged as misdemeanors, there are certain situations where a driver may face felony charges. This typically applies in cases where a driver is accused of causing a car accident that seriously injures another individual. Though most people associate DUI charges with alcohol, a driver may also be arrested for allegedly driving while under the influence of an illegal narcotic or prescription drug. Whether you are under the age of 21 and have been charged with a DUI or have recently been charged with a third DUI, our legal team is ready to defend you.

What Happens If You Get a DUI in California?

If you are convicted of a DUI in California, your penalties will depend on the severity of the offense and any prior convictions.

Generally speaking, punishments for DUI convictions can include fines, alcohol awareness classes, license restrictions or suspensions, installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID), probation, community service, and even jail time.

For a first-time offense, for example, fines can range from $390 to $1,000 or more, while jail sentences range from 48 hours to up to 6 months. Drivers may also face license restrictions or suspensions that last between 4 months and 3 years, depending on the severity of the offense and any prior convictions. The installation of IIDs is mandatory for repeat offenders and those with a BAC of .15 or higher. Additionally, the court may assign probation for up to 5 years and require community service.

Lastly, being convicted of a DUI in California can have other long-lasting consequences. For example, your insurance rates may increase and your car may be impounded or confiscated. A DUI conviction can also remain on your record for up to 10 years, making it difficult to get certain jobs or professional licenses. It is important to take all necessary steps to ensure the best possible outcome in any DUI case.

Get the legal guidance you deserve! Contact Our Bakersfield DUI lawyer.

Continue Reading Read Less

38 Years of Collective Legal Experience
Over 250 DUI Trials Handled - With a 97.4% Success Rate
Handled More Than 8,500 DMV Hearings in Kern County
Expert Member of California DUI Lawyers Association
ACS-CHAL Forensic Lawyer - Scientist Designation
AV Rated by martindale.com - Leading Authority on Attorney Ratings

Client Testimonials

Hear from Real People Who We've Helped

"This Attorney is amazing at what he does, and i would refer anyone i knew in trouble to his law office."
After doing research on the internet trying to find an Attorney because my boyfriend was innocent, Mr. Middlebrook came up repeatedly. We got in right away to his office, and after meeting with him, had an overwhelming feeling of relief. He is very respectful, makes you feel like a person, not a criminal, and most importantly is very knowledgeable and reassures you that everything will be ok. We got the best outcome we didn't even think was possible. This Attorney is amazing at what he does, and i would refer anyone i knew in trouble to his law office.

- Name Withheld
"I want to tell you how TRULY thankful I am to you for everything that you did for me"
First, I want to tell you how TRULY thankful I am to you for everything that you did for me. You went above and beyond my wildest expectations and I have nothing but the most immense respect and admiration of your abilities. I know you went the extra mile for me, but I have no doubt that you are just as wonderful and passionate with all of your clients. You deserve all of the success you have Rick. It takes a very special and gifted person to juggle what you do and have all of your achievements to prove it! I wish I could appropriately express my most sincere gratitude for how well you took care of me. THANK YOU RICHARD!!

- Jennifer M.
"You did a great job!"
You did a great job! We were so impressed and so glad that you really knocked their socks off.

- Nancy H.
"If I am ever in need of an attorney again, there is no doubt I would hire Mr. Middlebrook's firm."
I was arrested for driving under the influence. After meeting with several lawyers, I retained Mr. Middlebrook to represent me. He took the time to listen and his advice and counsel was more than I could have asked for. Not only did he get my case dismissed, his fees were fair too. I have since referred my friend to Mr. Middlebrook and his case was dismissed too. If I am ever in need of an attorney again, there is no doubt I would hire Mr. Middlebrook's firm.

- J.T.
"Richard provided very knowledgeable advice and counsel, and, in fact, every court action played out exactly as he anticipated."
Of course he knew the law and the precedents, but more importantly he knows the court, the judges and commissioners, and the other attorneys involved. His greatest value was in knowing how this particular court (Kern County Superior Court - family law division) works, the main players involved, and anticipating each player's actions and responses. No one can tell you for sure what will happen in court, but Richard provided very knowledgeable advice and counsel, and, in fact, every court action played out exactly as he anticipated. He was a little more expensive (in terms of hourly rate) than the other attorneys I interviewed, but he was worth it because he got me exactly what I wanted.

- Katie T.
"I was, and still am very impressed"
Just wanted you to know that I think you did an excellent job representing me and my case. I cannot think of anything that you could have said, done, or even a question left not asked that would have affected the outcome of this trial. I was, and still am very impressed with your representation of me, your professionalism, and your presentation of my case. I have a very high opinion of you, and your ability as a defense attorney. Just for your piece of mind, I would highly recommend you to anyone I know, and if ever a need should arise, would not hesitate to use your services again myself. Please let me know that you received this message.

- Jeremy B.
"Mr. Middlebrook is the man to call to help you get out of this situation as smoothly and with the best outcome as possible."
Everyone makes mistakes. If one of your mistakes happens to be a DUI, Mr. Middlebrook is the man to call to handle the situation. Mr. Middlebrook did the impossible in my case, and made sure my DUI did not ruin my life and career. His staff is extremely understanding and supportive through the entire process. If you are reading this it means you made the same mistake as so many others, and as so many others have come to realize; Mr. Middlebrook is the man to call to help you get out of this situation as smoothly and with the best outcome as possible. Make sure to learn from your mistakes, but in the time being stop the bleeding and call Mr. Middlebrook.

- Christian
"Mr. Middlebrook is the most knowledgeable attorney I have ever worked with."
Mr. Middlebrook is the most knowledgeable attorney I have ever worked with. He is honest and attentive to your individual needs. I would never consider going with anyone else, and feel safe and secure in knowing that he is handling my case. I am completely confident that he is THE expert and knows all the ins and outs of the legal process. There are a lot of lawyers out there that will tell you what you want to hear, but Richard is upfront and will tell you what you can expect. He is a genuine person and undeniably, the best asset you can have for your legal matters!

- Anonymous

View All Reviews

Defending Your Future in Bakersfield

There are various strategies that may be used to challenge DUI charges in criminal court and at a DMV hearing. Even in cases where a driver is accused of failing a breath test or blood test, there may be ways for an attorney to effectively prove that the test results should not be allowed in court.

Field sobriety tests have inherent faults and may also be improperly administered. Another strategy that can be used is to question or challenge an arresting officer's testimony. Regardless of the circumstances, our firm will carefully review your situation and find any small details and facts that may support your defense.

Begin Building Your Defense Today. Schedule Your Case Evaluation.

Contact Middlebrook & Associates Today!

Call (661) 874-1325 or Fill Out This Form. Hablamos Español.

A member of our team will be in touch shortly to confirm your contact details or address questions you may have.

First Name
Please enter your first name.
Last Name
Please enter your last name.
Phone
Please enter your phone number.

This isn't a valid phone number.
Email
Please enter your email address.

This isn't a valid email address.
Are you a new client?
Please make a selection.
How can we help you?
Please enter a message.
By submitting, you agree to be contacted about your request & other information using automated technology. Message frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Text STOP to cancel. Acceptable Use Policy