DUI Arrest Process

DUI Arrest Process in Camarillo, Oxnard and Ventura

Ventura is considered by many to be the toughest county in California, if not the entire United States, when it comes to facing charges for driving under the influence (DUI). The law enforcement agencies in Ventura arrest many people on mere suspicion of DUI, and the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office prosecutes cases that would never even get filed in other counties. As a result, if you are facing Ventura DUI charges, you need to hire a local and experienced DUI defense attorney who can help fight your case and protect your legal rights.

The DUI arrest process in Ventura County starts like any other traffic stop. From there, however, you will face a trying series of events before you ever get the chance to tell your side of the story.

The Ventura DUI Arrest Process

The Traffic Stop

Most Ventura DUI arrests begin with a routine traffic stop. You may be pulled over on suspicion of DUI, or you may be pulled over for speeding, running a red light or any other traffic violation. Regardless of the reason for your traffic stop, if the police have probable cause to do so, they can arrest you for DUI.

Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs) and Chemical BAC Tests

Following your traffic stop, probable cause may be established through administration of one or a series of standardized field sobriety tests (FSTs). The officers who stop you must adequately explain and demonstrate the tests before they perform them, and you are NOT required to submit to the tests if you choose not to do so. Read more about your DUI rights in California.

If you fail the FSTs or refuse to take them, the officers may then require you to take a chemical test to determine your BAC. This can be done through a breath test at the scene of the arrest, or through a blood test administered at a local Ventura hospital.

Going to Jail

Most people are not ready for what comes next. In Ventura, nearly all DUI arrests – including those for high profile DUIs – result in the suspect being transported to the Ventura County Main Jail at the Government Center on Victoria Avenue. How long you will be held will depend on:

• On what day of the week and at what time you were arrested;
• How busy the jail is; and
• Whether your arrest was for a felony or misdemeanor DUI.

On most misdemeanor DUIs suspects are released on their own recognizance. But, occasionally you will be required to post bail, usually in the amount of $5000.

What’s Next in My Ventura DUI Case?

Once you get home from jail, you will receive numerous letters from attorneys – including The Law Offices of David Lehr – offering representation in your upcoming Ventura DUI case. In order to successfully fight your Ventura DUI charge, you will need a local attorney who knows the Ventura court system, and who knows how to successfully overcome DUI charges in Ventura County. When you choose The Law Offices of David Lehr, we handle the process for you while keeping you involved and informed every step of the way.

For More Information on the Ventura DUI Arrest Process

For more information, or to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Ventura DUI attorney at the Law Offices of David Lehr, please contact us today.