It’s a moment that can feel both surreal and terrifying. One minute, you’re driving home; the next, you’re being questioned about drinking, tested, and placed under arrest. If this happened to you, you’re likely overwhelmed and unsure of what to expect next.
Understanding what to do after getting a DUI in California is critical. The hours following an arrest carry real legal consequences but also present opportunities to protect your rights and prepare a strong defense. At Esfandi Law Group, we guide clients through this exact moment daily. Led by veteran defense attorney Seppi Esfandi, our team will help you take the right steps, avoid common pitfalls, and build a strategy tailored to your future, not just your case file.
I Got a DUI—Now What?
You were arrested, processed, and released. Maybe you spent the night in custody. Perhaps you still hold the pink paper the officer gave you after taking your license. And now you’re asking, I got a DUI, now what?
Here’s what you need to know:
- You will receive a court date for your criminal DUI charge under California Vehicle Code § 23152 for offenses involving alcohol or drugs;
- Evidence like blood or breath test results, field sobriety test performance, and police body cam footage is crucial for developing a strong defense; and
- If you refuse testing or have prior offenses, the penalties increase significantly.
Missing deadlines or failing to act quickly can result in license suspension, mandatory DUI school, fines, probation, or even jail time. But contacting Esfandi Law Group today can help you avoid that.
What to Do After Getting a DUI in California: Your First 5 Steps
When police charge you, the pressure starts immediately. But so should your defense. Here’s what to do after getting a DUI in California to protect your rights from day one.
Request a DMV Hearing
You only have 10 calendar days from the date of your arrest to request an administrative per se (APS) hearing. This timeframe is separate from your court case and determines the fate of your driver’s license.
Hire an Experienced DUI Attorney
Not all lawyers understand the science, strategies, and flaws of DUI cases. A skilled DUI defense lawyer like Seppi Esfandi can challenge test results, file motions to suppress, and negotiate for reduced or dismissed charges.
Gather Evidence
Make a written account of what happened before, during, and after your arrest. Did the police read you your rights? Was the stop legal? What did the officer say or do?
Avoid Discussing Your Case
Do not speak to police, prosecutors, or even friends about your case. People can take your statements out of context or use them against you.
Plan for Court and Work Impacts
A DUI charge may impact your job, especially if you hold a commercial license. Plan proactively and speak with your lawyer about protecting your employment status.
What Happens When You Get a DUI in California?
Here’s a breakdown of what happens when you get a DUI in California:
- Arrest and booking—you’ll be taken to a station, processed, and released on bail or own recognizance;
- DMV proceedings—the DMV will suspend your license automatically unless you request a hearing within 10 days;
- Arraignment—you’ll appear in court, where you’ll enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest);
- Pretrial and negotiations—evidence is reviewed and your attorney may challenge the stop, tests, or arrest procedure;
- Trial or plea—plea deals resolve most DUI cases, but some go to trial, especially if the evidence is weak; and
- Sentencing—if convicted, penalties may include fines, DUI school, license suspension, probation, or jail time.
California law also mandates enhanced penalties for high BAC levels (0.15 %+), accidents, refusals, or prior offenses.
What Happens When You Get a DUI for the First Time in California?
A first-time DUI conviction in California is still serious. Under California Law, you may face:
- Fines and assessments totaling $1,800–$2,500,
- Mandatory DUI school for 3 to 9 months,
- License suspension for 6 months (or longer with refusal),
- Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID),
- Three to five years of informal probation, and
- And up to six months in county jail (though most avoid jail with good legal representation).
Esfandi Law Group can work to negotiate a reduction of charges, dismissals of enhancements, or even full case dismissal based on lack of probable cause, flawed chemical testing, or procedural violations.
What to Do After DUI Arrest: Legal Options
If you’re asking what to do after a DUI arrest, understand this: you have more options than you think. Some legal strategies include:
- Filing a Motion to Suppress Evidence—if police violated your rights during the stop or arrest;
- Challenging breath/blood test accuracy—DUI machines can malfunction, and lab errors are not uncommon;
- Raising mouth alcohol or medical defenses—GERD, dental work, or recent alcohol use (without impairment) can skew results;
- Negotiating a lesser charge—“wet reckless” or “dry reckless” pleas avoid many DUI consequences; and
- Requesting alternative sentencing—community service, alcohol treatment, or diversion programs may be available depending on the facts and county policies.
Esfandi Law Group uses every tool available to break down the state’s case and protect your future.
Hiring the Right Attorney Makes All the Difference: Contact Esfandi Law Group Today
If you’re still thinking, “I got a DUI, now what?”, the answer is simple: take action, not chances. At Esfandi Law Group, we offer immediate legal guidance and customized strategies to defend your DUI charge. Whether this is your first offense or you’re facing multiple allegations, we’ll fight to protect your record, your license, and your future.
Seppi Esfandi brings more than 23 years of criminal defense experience, including seven years as a Deputy Public Defender, to your side. We know the courtrooms, prosecutors, and pressure points. We speak Spanish and serve clients across Los Angeles with compassion, discretion, and a commitment to winning. Contact us now or schedule a free consultation with a seasoned Los Angeles DUI attorney. The next move is yours—make it count.
