DUI Checkpoints

DUI and California Sobriety Checkpoints

DUI checkpoints, also referred to as DUI roadblocks or sobriety checkpoints, are commonplace in California. The Office of Traffic Safety funds thousands of sobriety checkpoints throughout the state each year in an effort to detect and arrest drunk drivers. Unlike a typical DUI stop, there does not need to be any probable cause for you to be questioned at a DUI checkpoint.

The California Highway Patrol will often situate a sobriety checkpoint in high traffic areas known for large numbers of DUI arrests, such as the Gaslamp District in San Diego and the Sunset Strip in Los Angeles. Drivers can be randomly questioned and potentially arrested if there is a suspicion of DUI. Officers are looking for probable cause to believe a driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

What to Expect at a DUI Checkpoint

At a DUI checkpoint, drivers are funneled into lanes and forced to stop their vehicle. A police officer will often peer inside the vehicle with a flashlight attempting to detect the odor of alcohol or drugs. The officer will also ask the driver if he/she has consumed any alcohol or drugs, and will watch carefully for how the driver appears and acts during the stop.

Over the years, there have been many legal challenges to DUI checkpoints resulting in specific legal requirements that must be met at each sobriety checkpoint, including:

  • DUI checkpoints must be clearly marked and in a reasonable location
  • All cars must be stopped and treated in the same manner
  • There must be a law enforcement supervisor overseeing the checkpoint
  • Public notification must be made in advance of a DUI checkpoint set up

You can check local news sources for upcoming DUI checkpoint locations, and several internet sites have interactive maps of areas where DUI checkpoints are scheduled.

DUI Checkpoint Problems? Speak with Experienced DUI Attorneys

The knowledgeable DUI lawyers at Hoffman & Associates understand the rules and regulations of DUI checkpoints. We have over 30 years of experience in California courtrooms and have built strong professional relationships that benefit our DUI clients. There are many defenses available to fight a DUI charge in California, regardless of if you were pulled over at a DUI checkpoint or due to probable cause on the roadway. Our attorneys are skilled at explaining the complex DUI laws in an easy-to-understand manner so you know what options you have if you have been arrested at a DUI checkpoint.

A DUI conviction can have serious consequences on your life, including jeopardizing your employment. It pays to speak with a qualified DUI attorney immediately. We offer a phone or office consultation to discuss the facts of your DUI case and offer potential solutions to your legal DUI problem. Contact the Hoffman & Associates offices today and let us help protect your rights and reputation.

Hoffman & Associates
Los Angeles
(323) 655-3900

Hoffman & Associates
San Diego
(760) 942-0069

Client Reviews
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I can't begin to thank Mr. Hoffman enough for his extensive efforts throughout the entire case. He went absolutely above and beyond throughout the entire process. From day one he was immediately actively pursuing ways to prevent my case from ever going to court and once that was no longer an option, actively began working on getting the case ultimately dismissed. His communication was consistent and reassuring, despite my frantic worries all the time... Micaiah Botts
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My family and I simply owe our life and future to Ron Hoffman. If you are looking for a lawyer that goes above and beyond the call of duty you can't find a better lawyer than Ron. He took my case head on from the moment I called his office. I was involved in an accidental hit and run where I was unaware of the injury. Every step of the way, Ron guided me through an almost two year long investigation and court settlement process and was constantly by my side through out every crossroad... Bill Martin
★★★★★
Ron Hoffman and his staff were Fantastic when dealing with such a serious issue of DUI. When I first Called Ron I was very nervous and worried for my daughter and her freedom. She had a failure to appear on top of her DUI and I knew just how bad this could be. Ron was able to immediately put me at ease and gave me the confidence that there was hope and a light at the end of the tunnel. Ron was able to get the failure to appear dismissed and also no jail time for my daughter... Claude Brown
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I have been working with Mr. Hoffman for over 11 years. I have seen first hand his genuine dedication to his clients, and how his experience, knowledge and passion have gotten clients fantastic results. He treats each of his clients as his only client, and takes the time to develop detailed strategies and defenses for each individual case. I have never hesitated to refer Mr. Hoffman to anyone who has asked me for a good Criminal Defense attorney. He is a fantastic attorney!... Neeta P.
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I had a DUI issue recently. I have never had a problem with the law as serious as this one. I did panic a bit after and knew I had to get a lawyer to help my future. I researched the Web and read the reviews for awesome DUI Lawyers. Hiring a lawyer can be intimidating. Ron's 30 years experience and step by step guidance helped me with my case. Jonie was amazing with keeping me calm. Ron Hoffman is a great lawyer and I would refer any friends or family to him... Manuel Gomez
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Ron was so accommodating and professional. With a Firm like his you wouldn't expect him to be as accessible, but he immediately returned phone calls, was easy to communicate with and was very sympathetic to my situation. He went above and beyond and was able to get a better result than I'd hoped or expected. I highly recommend Ron Hoffman and his firm. He made a difficult and anxiety fueled process bearable and made me feel safe. He is a lovely man. One does not wish to need a criminal attorney, but if you do need one, Ron's the guy to call... Teri A.
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