DUI Defense
Encino DUI Attorney
DUI Defense Attorney in Encino, CA
Being arrested for driving under the influence in Encino can trigger a cascade of legal issues. Whether this is your first charge or you’re dealing with aggravating circumstances, a conviction can bring jail time, license suspension, fines, and a criminal record. With so much at stake, you cannot afford to take chances.
At Esfandi Law Group, we defend individuals throughout Los Angeles County who are facing DUI allegations. Seppi Esfandi, a criminal defense attorney with over 23 years of experience, leads his Encino DUI law firm to secure strong outcomes in difficult cases. We also offer bilingual support for our Spanish-speaking clients, ensuring effective communication and equal access to justice. Contact our office to learn how an Encino DUI attorney can help you with your case.
What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Encino?
Once arrested, you face two separate legal processes. First, the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will begin an administrative license suspension. You only have 10 days from the date of arrest to request a hearing to contest this suspension. Your license will be automatically suspended if you miss that deadline, regardless of the status of the criminal case.
Second, your DUI case will proceed through the criminal court system. Depending on the circumstances, you may face either misdemeanor or felony charges. For a first offense, potential penalties include:
- License suspension for six months;
- Fines and penalty assessments exceeding $1,500;
- Mandatory DUI education programs; and
- Up to six months in jail.
For repeat offenses or DUI cases involving injury, the consequences increase sharply.
How a DUI Charge Can Affect Your Life
A DUI arrest in Encino can affect your driving privileges and much more. A conviction permanently marks your criminal record, which may interfere with future employment, housing opportunities, or professional licensing. Moreover, insurance rates typically increase. For non-U.S. citizens, a DUI may also lead to serious immigration consequences.
If you want to protect your future, working with an Encino DUI defense attorney early in the process gives you the best chance at a favorable outcome.
The Value of an Experienced Encino DUI Defense Attorney
Every DUI case is unique. A strong defense begins with understanding the facts and identifying legal errors. Police must follow strict procedures during traffic stops, testing, and arrests. If they don’t, the case against you may weaken.
An experienced Encino DUI defense lawyer will examine whether:
- The officer had reasonable suspicion for the stop,
- Field sobriety tests were administered correctly,
- Breath or blood testing complied with Title 17 standards, and
- Constitutional violations occurred during questioning or detention.
Our firm has successfully challenged each of these issues in Los Angeles courts. Strong representation can reduce charges or penalties even when a dismissal isn’t possible.
Defending Against DUI Charges in Encino
Many people assume that a failed breathalyzer test means their case is hopeless. That is not true. Depending on the facts, DUI charges can be fought on several legal grounds.
Common defenses include:
- Lack of probable cause. If police stopped you without a valid reason, any evidence gathered afterward could be suppressed.
- Improper chemical testing. Breath and blood testing devices must meet strict maintenance, calibration, and chain-of-custody standards.
- Rising blood alcohol content (BAC). Alcohol levels increase over time. You may have been under the legal limit while driving, even if your test result was higher later.
- Medical or dietary causes. Conditions such as diabetes, acid reflux, or ketosis can sometimes create false positives on breath tests.
No two cases are the same. Your Encino DWI lawyer should tailor your legal strategy to the facts—not apply a cookie-cutter approach.
Common Legal Issues Handled by an Encino DUI Defense Lawyer
Not all DUI cases involve the same factors. Some involve additional allegations that elevate the charge or increase penalties. We handle a wide range of DUI-related issues, including second or third DUI charges. Repeat offenses carry mandatory jail time and longer license suspensions.
- Underage DUI. California’s zero-tolerance law means drivers under 21 can be penalized for even a 0.01% BAC.
- DUI with injury. If someone else was hurt, you may be charged with a felony offense.
- Test refusal. Refusing a chemical test can lead to an automatic license suspension, even if you’re not convicted.
- CDL and professional licenses. Commercial drivers can face charges with a lower BAC limit of 0.04% or above, as well as losing their job if the State convicts them of DUI.
If any of these apply to you, your Encino DUI defense lawyer must address the issue head-on with a specific legal plan.
Understanding California DUI Sentencing Enhancements
DUI penalties may increase significantly in California when certain aggravating factors are present. These sentencing enhancements must be taken seriously. They can elevate misdemeanor charges to felonies or add mandatory jail time, even for first-time offenders.
Here are some DUI sentencing enhancements under California law:
- Excessive BAC. A BAC of 0.15% or higher may lead to additional penalties, including longer DUI classes and increased jail time.
- DUI with a minor passenger. Driving under the influence with a child under 14 in the vehicle can result in a child endangerment enhancement.
- Speeding and reckless driving. If you were speeding more than 20 mph over the limit on surface streets or 30 mph over on highways while intoxicated, enhanced penalties may apply.
- Refusing a chemical test. Refusal enhancements apply even if you later give a blood or breath sample under force. Refusing to cooperate may lead to longer license suspensions.
- Causing injury or death. A DUI that results in bodily harm or death may be charged as a felony with mandatory state prison time.
Understanding which enhancements apply and how to challenge them is critical to defending your case. Your Encino DWI lawyer must analyze police reports, medical records, and witness testimony to counter these allegations effectively.
Speak with an Encino DUI Attorney Today
The sooner you act, the more options you may have. A DUI arrest does not guarantee a conviction—but ignoring the situation can certainly make things worse. At Esfandi Law Group, we take your defense seriously from the start. Contact us now to schedule a free consultation with an Encino DUI attorney who will fight to protect your rights, your license, and your future.
