First-Time DUI

First Offense DUI Attorney in California

Protecting Our Clients’ Rights & Interests in Kern County

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Motorists who are arrested for drunk driving in the state of California can face serious penalties, even for a first-time offense. Police officers can show that you are under the influence of alcohol through a sobriety test or chemical test.

However, no matter how serious your case may be, our seasoned California first-offense DUI attorney can defend you. At Middlebrook & Associates, we make it a priority to fight to tirelessly fight your first-time DUI charge to try and minimize the damage it can have on you and your future.

Facing first offense DUI charges in California? Contact us online or call (661) 874-1325 for your free consultation.

First-Time DUI Penalties in California

If you are convicted of your first-time DUI charge in California, a number of penalties will be imposed.

For just your first offense, you could face:

  • Between $1400 and $2600 in fines
  • 30 day to 10-month license suspension
  • Probation
  • 30-hour First Offense Alcohol Program
  • A DUI will remain on your record for 10 years and will be relevant for sentencing.
  • Underage DUI

Strict drunk driving laws exist for drivers who are under the age of 21. Individuals in these categories can be charged with an underage DUI with a blood alcohol concentration level of 0.01%. As for drivers under the age of 18, a "no tolerance" law exists.

With California's implied consent law, drivers who refuse to submit to a chemical test are subject to a fine and automatic license suspension. For a first offense of refusing to submit, a one-year driver's license suspension can be imposed.

How Likely is Jail Time for a First DUI in Bakersfield, CA?

The likelihood of jail time for a first DUI offense in Bakersfield, CA, depends on several factors, including the specific circumstances of the DUI offense and the judge's discretion. In California, a first DUI offense is typically charged as a misdemeanor, and the penalties can include fines, license suspension, probation, and mandatory participation in a DUI education program. Jail time is practically mandatory for people convicted of a DUI. Even if it is your first offense and no one was injured, a judge can sentence you to six months in jail.

First-Time DUI Lawyer in Bakersfield, California

As a misdemeanor crime, individuals charged with DUI will be entitled to a jury trial before being convicted, along with a DMV hearing to potentially protect their license. During each step of your case, you will want to ensure that you are adequately protected from an aggressive Bakersfield first-offense DUI lawyer.

Contact our Bakersfield firm by calling (661) 874-1325. We provide all our clients with dedicated legal guidance for a first-offense DUI charge in California.

Why Choose Middlebrook & Associates?

  • 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
  • Teaches Lawyers & Scientists - DUIDLA, American Academy of Forensic Science & American Chemical Society
  • Founding & Board Member - DUI Defense Lawyers Association (DUIDLA)
  • Top 100 Lawyers in America - DUI Defense

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Client Testimonials Hear from Real People Who We've Helped
  • "From the moment you walk into the office the staff is gracious and accommodating."
    From the moment you walk into the office the staff is gracious and accommodating. They do their best to make you feel like they actually care about you and your case. Mr. Middlebrook is very knowledgeable and takes the time to answer all your questions. If you are looking for a caring, hard working and knowledgeable attorney I would highly recommend The Law Office of Richard O. Middlebrook.
    - Name Withheld
  • "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
  • "The best! Period!"
    Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! You saved my life, career, livelihood and license. The best! Period!
    - R.J.
  • "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

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