Frequently Asked Questions
What happens when you're charged with a DUI in Orange County?
A DUI arrest in Orange County triggers two separate proceedings: a criminal case and a DMV Admin Per Se hearing. You have only 10 days after your arrest to request that DMV APS hearing, so acting quickly is critical. Christine Martin handles both the court case and the DMV APS hearing on your behalf.
Criminal cases will likely be held at Central Justice Center in Santa Ana, Harbor Justice Center in Newport Beach, North Justice Center in Fullerton, and West Justice Center in Westminster.
What factors most affect the outcome of a DUI case in Laguna Hills?
Factors that affect DUI cases in Orange County will revolve around the facts of the case, the prior criminal history, whether there was a collision or injury, and what type of driving was observed by the police officer and the witness.
How soon should I hire a criminal defense attorney after a DUI arrest in Orange County?
You should hire a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible after a DUI arrest. The ideal situation is to retain an attorney within the first 24 to 48 hours. The 10-day deadline to request a DMV APS hearing begins the day of your arrest, and missing it can result in a license suspension.
How does a DUI affect your driver's license in California?
A California DUI conviction typically triggers a license suspension of six months to four years, depending on your history. The DMV process is separate from your criminal case, and failing
to request a hearing within 10 days of arrest may result in an automatic suspension before any court ruling.
