In many cases, DUI (driving under the influence) cases in California take several months to resolve. However, there is no set amount of time associated with resolving a driving under the influence (DUI) case in California.
A Los Angeles DUI lawyer can teach you about the legal process and how long it takes to resolve a driving under the influence case. You can share details about your DUI case with the attorney, and the lawyer can help you build a defense to get your charge reduced or dismissed.
How Long Do DUI Cases Take in California?
The time it takes to resolve a DUI charge in California varies. For example, a misdemeanor DUI case goes to trial within 45 days if an individual enters a “not guilty” plea and does not “waive time.” However, the time it takes to complete the trial can vary.
In comparison, those who settle their DUI case may be able to do so within about three to six months. An attorney can review your situation and provide more detailed information about how long most DUI cases take.
Factors that Can Impact How Long It Takes to Resolve Your DUI Case
Generally, the California Judicial Branch will try to process a DUI case as quickly as possible. However, several factors can affect how long it takes to resolve a driving under the influence case. These include:
The Case’s Complexity
Resolving a case may take longer than usual if you are dealing with various legal issues or face multiple DUI charges.
The Court’s Workload
The court system may receive many cases at once, which can cause delays that slow down the process of settling a DUI case.
Availability of Evidence and Witnesses
If there are delays in getting evidence or accessing witnesses, these delays can force a DUI case to linger.
Scheduling Conflicts
If there are scheduling conflicts with witnesses or attorneys, the court may postpone a DUI case’s trial date. These factors contribute to the length of time most DUI cases take in Los Angeles.
Partner with an attorney if the police charge you with a DUI in Los Angeles. Getting help allows you to review all the legal options at your disposal. Your Los Angeles DUI lawyer may even propose a DUI plea bargain so you can resolve your case without going to trial.
Benefits of a Plea Bargain in a Los Angeles DUI Case
One of the most significant benefits of a plea bargain is that you may have your DUI charge reduced. In this scenario, you may be able to avoid any of the following DUI penalties:
- Having to attend a DUI school
- Having your driver’s license suspended
- Having to pay a fine
- Spending time in jail
A DUI lawyer in Los Angeles can get you up to speed on plea agreements. Your attorney can explain how a plea bargain works and answer any questions you have about it. If you and your lawyer decide to proceed with a plea agreement, your attorney can help you put one together that aligns with your best interests.
Of course, to get a plea bargain approved, a prosecutor must agree to it. Your lawyer will account for the prosecutor’s charge against you and what it may take to get your plea bargain approved. This knowledge allows your attorney to create a plea bargain that delivers optimal results for all parties involved.
What You Can Do to Resolve a DUI Case Quickly
Do not expect your DUI case to get resolved on its own. You can try to ignore the DUI charge against you. Regardless, your charge will continue to affect you until the case is resolved.
You can do many things to resolve your DUI case in as little time as possible.
Partner with an Experienced DUI Lawyer
Choose an attorney who understands the ins and outs of California’s DUI laws. Your lawyer reviews all aspects of your case and provides personalized tips and recommendations on resolving it. Plus, your lawyer represents your best interests and serves as your advocate throughout your litigation.
Be Open to a Plea Agreement
If your attorney proposes a plea bargain, consider what your attorney has to say. Your lawyer can explain why they believe presenting a plea agreement to a prosecutor is in your best interests. With a plea bargain, you can accept a lesser charge than initially proposed and resolve your case in less time than required for a trial.
Collect Evidence
Gather evidence to support your argument for getting your DUI charge lowered or dropped. If you have substantial evidence to support your argument, the prosecutor may decide not to proceed with the case against you. At this point, you can avoid severe DUI penalties.
Communicate and Collaborate with Your Attorney
Provide your attorney with any information they request about your case, and do so promptly. If you do not comply with legal requests, you risk delaying your DUI case. Even worse, you could compromise your case and face severe consequences.
If the police charge you under CA Vehicle Code 23152 (a) – Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol, immediately hire an attorney. From here, you and your lawyer can build your legal strategy. Meanwhile, your attorney can help you determine how to resolve your case quickly.
Get Help Resolving Your DUI Case
How long do most DUI cases take to resolve in Los Angeles? The time can vary greatly and sometimes depends on whether you have legal help.
If you are ready to hire a DUI lawyer in LA, it helps to meet with an attorney. The meeting lets you provide the attorney with details about your DUI case. The attorney can then tell you how they can help you contest your DUI charge.
The ideal attorney will go the extra mile to provide full support at each step of your litigation. You can select an attorney that recognizes the importance of communication and collaboration. We can help you find a lawyer when you call or fill out our online contact form.
