Placerville DUI Defense Lawyer – Fight DUI Charges in El Dorado County
Don’t Let a DUI Derail Your Future
A DUI arrest in El Dorado County is more than a traffic ticket—it’s a criminal charge that can lead to jail time, license suspension, thousands in fines, and long-term damage to your reputation. At the Law Office of Gregory S. Clark, we help clients throughout Placerville, Cameron Park, and surrounding Gold Country communities fight DUI charges with clarity, strategy, and urgency.
We understand what’s at stake, especially for first-time offenders or those unfamiliar with California’s complex DUI laws. From your DMV hearing to your final court date, we’re by your side with the experience you need to protect your rights and keep you on the road.
What You’re Facing: California DUI Laws & Penalties
Driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher—or while under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or another drug—can result in a DUI charge. Even first offenses can trigger:
- Up to 6 months in jail (often avoided with probation)
- Around $2,000 in fines and court fees
- A 6–10 month license suspension
- Mandatory DUI school
- Possible ignition interlock device installation
Penalties increase significantly for second, third, or felony-level DUIs (such as DUI with injury). Gregory will walk you through what’s at risk and immediately start building a defense.
How We Defend DUI Charges
No DUI case is open-and-shut. We explore every legal and factual angle to challenge the arrest, evidence, and testing procedures:
- Was the traffic stop legal? If not, the case could collapse.
- Were field sobriety tests conducted properly? Officers often misinterpret results.
- Was the breathalyzer accurate and calibrated? Machines malfunction—and medical conditions can skew results.
- Were blood tests handled correctly? Chain of custody matters.
- Could your BAC have risen after driving? “Rising BAC” defenses are real if testing was delayed.
- Were you actually impaired? Borderline cases deserve scrutiny and may warrant a lesser charge.
Gregory will dig into the facts, question the process, and present your strongest defense—tailored to the specifics of your case.
Understanding the DUI Process: Court and DMV
In California, a DUI arrest triggers two separate proceedings:
- Criminal case in court – where your charges are prosecuted.
- DMV administrative hearing – where your license is on the line.
You only have
10 days from arrest to request a DMV hearing. If you don’t, your license may be automatically suspended. We’ll handle both sides—fighting to keep you driving and defending you in court to reduce or beat the charge entirely.
First-Time DUI vs. Multiple Offenses
If this is your first DUI, you may have more options. In some cases, we can negotiate a “wet reckless” plea or push for alternative sentencing like community service or alcohol education classes. For repeat offenses, we fight to avoid jail time and pursue house arrest, treatment programs, or other alternatives.
We’ll assess your record, BAC, and case details to determine the best path forward—and explain your options in plain English.
DUI Involving Drugs
DUI charges aren’t limited to alcohol. Driving under the influence of prescription medication, marijuana, or controlled substances can also result in serious charges. These cases are often built on subjective officer observations and blood test results that don’t directly prove impairment.
We understand the evolving science of drug DUIs—especially around marijuana use, where there’s no defined legal limit. We’ll challenge the state’s conclusions and fight to keep your record clean.
DUI for Out-of-State Drivers and Underage Clients
Whether you were visiting South Lake Tahoe or heading through Placerville on Highway 50, a DUI arrest while passing through California can follow you home. We help out-of-state clients navigate license consequences and court appearances, often minimizing the need to travel back.
For drivers under 21, California has
zero tolerance laws—just 0.01% BAC can lead to serious penalties. We offer strategic guidance to young clients and their families to reduce long-term impact.
Will I lose my license after a DUI?
Yes—unless we act fast. The DMV can suspend your license for a first offense unless you request a hearing within 10 days. Even if convicted in court, we may still help you obtain a restricted license or qualify for an interlock device. We’ll guide you through both processes.
Can a DUI be expunged?
After probation is complete, you may be eligible to expunge a DUI from your criminal court record (it won’t be erased from DMV records, but it can help with employment or background checks). Gregory will help you file for expungement when the time comes.
What is a wet reckless?
It’s a reduced charge that carries fewer penalties than a DUI—typically no court-mandated license suspension and shorter DUI school. If your BAC was borderline or the case has weaknesses, we’ll fight to negotiate a wet reckless outcome.
Do I really need a lawyer for a misdemeanor DUI?
Absolutely. A DUI can impact your job, insurance, driving privileges, and even your immigration status. We’ve helped many clients avoid jail, keep their licenses, and reduce or dismiss charges entirely. Let us fight for the outcome you deserve.
What if someone was injured in the DUI?
A DUI with injury can be charged as a felony. That means higher fines, restitution, longer license suspension, and prison time. It’s critical to have an experienced attorney to dispute the severity or cause of the injury—and push for a reduced charge or alternative sentence.
Drive Forward with a Strong Defense
You don’t have to face this alone. At the Law Office of Gregory S. Clark, we treat DUI cases with urgency and determination. From challenging evidence to guiding you through court and DMV proceedings, we’re here to help you move forward—with your license and future intact.
Contact us now for a free consultation on your DUI arrest. We’re ready to get to work.
