San Diego DUI Arrest? Now What?

If you've been pulled over in San Diego and arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), you probably have many questions about what happens next. Will you lose your driving privileges? What happens at the DMV hearing? How can you clear your record?

At Hoffman & Associates, we understand the embarrassment and serious nature of a DUI arrest. We know how to minimize the consequences and will work to restore your reputation and good driving record. Use our expertise in DUI cases for a strong defense in San Diego DUI court and at DMV hearings.

Driving Privileges and DUI

When you have been stopped for DUI in California, the peace officer is required by law to produce a sworn report and file it with the California Department of Motor Vehicles, along with your suspended or revoked drivers license. You only have 10 days (including weekends) to request a DMV hearing starting the day after your DUI arrest. The DMV hearing is your opportunity to show evidence that the suspension of your driving privilege is not justified. At the DMV hearing the officer's report, any test results, and the suspension or revocation order for your license will be reviewed.

Only an experienced San Diego DUI defense attorney should be at your side to handle the critical matters during a DMV hearing. After testimony and evidence are presented, the hearing officer will review the facts and decide:

  • Did the officer have reasonable cause to believe you were driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol?
  • Were you placed under lawful arrest?
  • Did you have a blood alcohol level of .08% or higher when driving your vehicle?

The DMV hearing is the initial step in your defense process and one that is separate from any court action taken on the drunk driving charge. The ideal resolution to a DUI case is an absolute dismissal of all charges. Charges may be dropped in one of two ways: either the case is dismissed prior to going to trial, or a not guilty verdict is obtained at trial.

Talk to an Experienced San Diego DUI Attorney

Consulting with an experienced DUI attorney is necessary because of the complexity of the laws relating to DUI in California, and the serious consequences that can result from a drunk driving conviction. At Hoffman & Associates, we have over 30 years of experience in the courtroom and specialize in fighting DUI cases. Our experienced San Diego DUI lawyers will look for inaccuracies in test results, fight to protect your rights, and negotiate to dismiss or reduce your DUI charges.

Hoffman & Associates offers affordable rates and easy payment plans. Call the law offices of Hoffman & Associates today for a phone or office consultation to discuss the specifics of your DUI case.

Client Reviews
★★★★★
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
★★★★★
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
★★★★★
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.
★★★★★
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
★★★★★
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.
★★★★★
Ron and his team were the perfect pairing for what I needed taken care of. Every step of the way he was extremely helpful and informative (not his first rodeo). His work ethic and attitude were exemplary and it showed with the results of using his services. I would recommend anyone I know to give Ron a call if they need help in his realm of expertise. Many thanks Ron and associates!... Donald N.
★★★★★
I didn't hire a lawyer for my first DUI... What a mistake! Ronald goes above and beyond with his art and knowledge of custom strategy according to your case. lawyer of the year (every year)... Adam R.
★★★★★
I hate lawyers. They are hard to get a hold of, greedy and unreliable. Ron is the opposite of all these things. He deserves 6 stars, and I very much recommend him. He helped me through my case with nothing but kindness, understanding, and knowledge and eventually got it dropped. Thanks for everything Ron!... Avi Z.