Los Angeles DUI Attorney

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I need an attorney?
When you have been charged with drunk driving, it is very important that you speak with a lawyer immediately.  Many people think that pleading guilty to a DUI charge is the easiest way to make it “go away.”  This option is not necessarily in your best interests.  With an experienced and aggressive Los Angeles DUI attorney on your side, you could be able to receive a more favorable outcome in your case.  The Law Offices of Loren M. Merlin has the skill, experience and drive necessary to give you an exceptional defense in your Los Angeles DUI case.

What does “BAC” mean?
BAC stands for blood alcohol concentration.  Law enforcement agencies use various tests to determine the amount of alcohol that is concentrated in your bloodstream.  The most commonly used tests are breath tests or blood tests.  Field sobriety tests do not measure your BAC.  If the test used to measure your blood alcohol concentration is found to be above .08%, you will be charged with DUI.  Even if your BAC is below the “legal limit,” if your driving is impaired and you have any amount of alcohol in your blood, you could still be charged with drunk driving. 

Will I go to jail if I am convicted?
Depending upon your charges and your prior criminal record, you could very well be facing jail time.  However, with the help of a Los Angeles DUI lawyer, your chances of facing incarceration could be greatly reduced.  Your attorney is fully prepared to build a solid defense on your behalf.

Will I lose my license?
Again, depending upon the circumstances of your arrest and any previous DUI convictions you have on your record, you could lose your license for a matter of months or even years.  If you would have difficulties in your life if you lost your license, you should speak with a DUI attorney in Los Angeles in order to protect your right to drive. 

What is a DMV Hearing?
After you have been pulled over and the arresting/charging officer has determined that you were driving under the influence, he or she will generally confiscate your license and issue you a temporary license that is also a “Notice of Suspension.”  You will have to schedule a hearing with the Department of Motor Vehicles in order to discuss the future of your license.  Your attorney can defend your right to drive at your DMV hearing.

Learn more about how we can assist you. Contact a Los Angeles DUI Defense Lawyer at our firm today.