DUI Archives

Felony vs. Misdemeanor DUI in California

October 27, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | DUI

Most first-time DUI (driving under the influence) offenses in California are charged as misdemeanors, which are less serious than felonies. However, a DUI can be charged as a felony in some cases. The difference matters because felony convictions carry harsher penalties for defendants, including the possibility of state prison time and the lasting consequences...

Steps To Follow for Finding a DUI Lawyer in Redwood City, CA

October 22, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | DUI

Being arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in Redwood City, California, can lead to criminal charges, fines, and the loss of your driving privileges. Finding the right attorney is an important step in preparing your defense, but knowing where to start can be difficult. Not every criminal defense attorney has the same experience...

How Long Can the Court Keep My DUI Case Open Without Actually Charging Me?

October 19, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | DUI

Most DUI charges under California Vehicle Code § 23152 are misdemeanors. Under Penal Code § 802, prosecutors generally have up to one year from the date of the alleged offense to file misdemeanor DUI charges. This means the district attorney isn't required to file charges right after the arrest; a person may be released...

Can You Refuse a Field Sobriety Test in California?

September 7, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | DUI

If you are stopped on suspicion of driving under the influence in California, an officer may ask you to perform a series of field sobriety tests. In most cases, you can refuse these tests. Standard field sobriety tests are different from the chemical testing requirements that can apply after a DUI arrest. Refusing a...

Can Breathalyzer Tests Be Wrong? Common Causes of False Positive Results

August 13, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | DUI

Yes, breathalyzer tests can be wrong. While law enforcement commonly relies on breath testing during driving under the influence (DUI) investigations, several factors can affect the accuracy of a result. A high reading can become important evidence in a California DUI case, especially when it shows a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or...

What Is the Legal BAC in California?

May 8, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | DUI

Driving under the influence is taken very seriously in California, and law enforcement uses blood alcohol concentration (BAC) testing as one of the primary ways to determine whether a driver is legally impaired. If your BAC is at or above the legal limit, you can be arrested and charged with a DUI regardless of...

Understanding Your Rights at a DUI Checkpoint in California

March 16, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | DUI

DUI checkpoints are a common law enforcement tool used throughout California to deter and detect impaired driving. While these checkpoints are legal under state law, drivers still have constitutional protections when they encounter one. Understanding your rights if stopped can help you stay calm, avoid unnecessary legal risks, and know what officers can and...

Attacking an “Odor of Alcohol” Claim in San Jose, CA

February 6, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | DUI

In many DUI cases, the police report will say that the officer noticed an “odor of alcohol” coming from the driver. This phrase is extremely common, but it’s also highly subjective and often unreliable. If you’ve been arrested for DUI in San Jose, California, you should know that an officer’s claim about smelling alcohol...

The Devastating Consequences of Driving Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol

January 29, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | DUI

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious offense in California, with consequences that extend far beyond a traffic stop or court appearance. A DUI can impact your freedom, finances, career, and personal life for years to come. Understanding how California DUI laws work—and what penalties may apply—can help drivers grasp...

What Happens at a DMV Hearing for DUI in California?

July 27, 2025 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | DUI

If you’re arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in California, you’re not just facing a court case. You also have to deal with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The DMV hearing is separate from the criminal process and focuses only on your driving privileges. Importantly, this hearing can result in the suspension...