🚨 JULY 4TH DUI? NOW WHAT?

If your holiday weekend ended with flashing lights in the rearview mirror you probably developed Black and White Fever, and your memory of what happened may not be that good…so write everything down…NOW! Here’s what you need to know—fast.

🔹 First: Was the Stop Legal?

A police officer must have Probable Cause (PC) to pull you over. This could be anything from speeding (typically over 55–65 mph) to swerving or another DMV traffic code violation. At the Scene If the officer smells alcohol, s/he will look for signs that you’ve been drinking: Remember the Voluntary Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs) and the Preliminary Alcohol Screening (PAS) Breath test will be offered and you can elect to REFUSE.

It is IMPORTANT to remember that these tests at the scene are optional (unless you're on probation).

🔹 Over .08? Then You’re “Deuced.”

A breath reading over .08% typically leads to a DUI arrest, but Indio DAs can and do prosecute at .07%. A DUI used to be called a “502,” then a 23102, and now a 23152 A & B Vehicle Code violation. Because the code ends in “2,” it’s common to hear someone say they’ve been “Deuced.”

🕒 You Have 10 Days to Act!

If you’re arrested for a DUI, you have just 10 calendar days (yes, weekends count!) to request a DMV hearing. It is best to have us request the hearing, which is separate from your criminal court case and the DMV Hearing is FREE with all DUI clients.

⚖️ There are Two Systems and Two Consequence for a DUI

The Defendant driver now faces a DMV Administrative Action and a Criminal Court Proceeding. Even when your court case goes well, the DMV can still suspend your license…if/when the hearing officer rules against you.

The DMV Hearings Are Different from the court proceedings and are conducted by a Hearing Officer (not a judge or lawyer). It is hard to believe, but the DMV Hearing Officer has no legal training, yet s/he acts as both prosecutor and judge. There is No presumption of innocence – If you blew a .08 or more, you're presumed guilty. The reality is that 98% of DMV cases result in a suspension. As previously explained, we handle DMV hearings FREE for all DUI clients.

🚫 Double Trouble?

Lawyers argue the DMV process is double jeopardy. This means you are punished twice for one event. The courts say DMV is administrative, so it’s just a “sanction,” not punishment. Trial Lawyer argue it’s a DUI exception to the Constitution.

🏛️ In Court

If you're convicted or plead guilty, You’ll face fines, DUI classes, and 3 years of summary, informal, probation. If your DUI is reduced to a “wet reckless,” then probation drops to 1 year.

📞 The Bottom Line is that a DUI doesn’t just go away

You must act quickly to protect your license and your future. You don’t need a lawyer, much like a placekicker… until you do. So, save my number: 760.837.7500—next to your plumber and electrician, for a rainy day.

If you or a friend, ever find yourself faced with a DUI/PI, or any legal issue, call for a FREE 360° DUI/PI consultation. If I’m not the right fit, I’ll refer you to someone who is…honestly!

Incidentally, we offer multiple options for payment, when available. “Clients don’t plan to fail; they often fail to plan”…so plan ahead.

“ONLY HIRE A LOCAL NON-TV, BILLBOARD, 1-800, FANCY SLOGAN, ADVERTISING LAWYER. YOUR FUTURE SELF WILL THANK YOU.

REMAIN SILENT: It’s not what you said… it’s what the POLICE/INSURANCE ADJUSTER thinks you said. The police and insurance adjusters are not on your side. We’re here to help—no judgment, just smart, experienced defense.

"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️"

37-Top Lawyer | 10.0/5-Star | DUI/PI Career Awards: | Google | Martindale AV, Pre-eminent | Avvo, Superb -Client’s Choice Award | Justia | PS Life | 9 Man of the Year | 4 Dale Gribow Days | Mr. Charity - Recognizing dozens of legal/philanthropic awards, signifying “THE BEST”. The highest rating for both legal ability and ethical trustworthiness standards by judges and attorneys, in “the most respected” national legal rating directory…for 150 years.” You don’t earn 37 “Top Lawyer” career awards, without standing on the shoulders of thousands of former clients. I’m grateful for every one of them.

Cases are limited and Gribow handles all calls—you won’t speak to a secretary or receptionist.