CDL DUI Attorney in Los Angeles

Why You Need a Lawyer to Defend Your Commercial Driver's License

Commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) are required for anyone operating a commercial vehicle, including big rigs, buses, and other heavy machinery. These licenses are issued by the state and are subject to the same laws that govern regular, Class C driver's licenses. This means that, if you are a CDL holder, you can face DUI charges and the resulting penalties if you are caught driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or higher.

However, the legal limits and many of the consequences for CDL holders are different. For example, while a person with a BAC of .08% or higher will be charged with DUI, a CDL holder can be charged with DUI with a BAC of .04% or higher. Additionally, CDL holders face much harsher penalties for drunk driving, including a one-year disqualification of their commercial driving privileges for a first offense.

At Stephen G. Rodriguez & Partners, our Los Angeles commercial DUI lawyers are equipped to handle all types of DUI cases, including those involving commercial drivers. We understand that your livelihood is on the line and will do everything possible to help you fight your charges and protect your commercial driving privileges.

Call us at (213) 481-6811 or fill out an online contact form to request a free, initial consultation.

CDL DUI Legal Consequences

As we mentioned earlier, while the legal limit for BAC is .08% for most drivers in California, it is much lower for commercial drivers. Commercial drivers can face DUI charges for having a BAC of .04% or higher. If you are a CDL holder and are caught driving with a BAC of .04% or higher, you can be charged with DUI, even if you were not operating a commercial vehicle at the time.

The legal consequences for a commercial driver convicted of DUI in California include:

• Up to one year in county jail
• Between $390 and $1,000 in fines
• Up to five years of probation
• Ignition interlock device (IID) installation for up to 48 months

Additionally, a CDL holder who is convicted of DUI will face a one-year disqualification of their commercial driving privileges. If the commercial driver was operating a commercial vehicle and transporting hazardous materials at the time of the DUI, the disqualification period is increased to three years.

Lastly, a second or subsequent DUI conviction can result in permanent CDL disqualification.

Other possible legal consequences for a commercial driver convicted of DUI include:

• Loss of employment
• Inability to secure future employment as a commercial driver
• Loss of commercial driving privileges for life after a second DUI conviction

CDL DUI Defense Strategies

Commercial drivers face severe consequences for DUI, including the potential loss of their commercial driving privileges. If you are a CDL holder who has been charged with DUI, it is important to immediately seek legal representation. An experienced lawyer will be able to help you build a strong defense and fight to protect your driving privileges.

At Stephen G. Rodriguez & Partners, our Los Angeles CDL DUI attorneys can help you fight your charges by:

• Reviewing the details of your arrest and the evidence against you to help you understand your legal options
• Investigating the actions of the arresting officer and the validity of the traffic stop and arrest
• Challenging any chemical testing errors or inaccuracies, such as those related to blood, breath, or urine tests
• Searching for any other evidence that may help you build a strong defense
• Representing you at your DMV hearing
• Negotiating with the prosecution to reduce or dismiss your charges
• Taking your case to trial, if necessary, and aggressively advocating for you every step of the way

Why Choose Stephen G. Rodriguez & Partners?

If you are a commercial driver who has been charged with DUI, it is important to act quickly. At Stephen G. Rodriguez & Partners, our Los Angeles CDL DUI attorneys are prepared to help you fight your charges and protect your commercial driving privileges. We understand the unique challenges you face and are equipped to provide the aggressive, effective defense you need.

When you choose our firm, you get:

• Decades of combined legal experience - Our team has handled thousands of cases, including numerous DUI matters. We have a comprehensive understanding of the law and can help you navigate the legal process.
• Customized legal solutions - We know that no two cases are the same. When you choose us, we will take the time to listen to your story, review the facts of your case, and help you understand your legal options. We will then work with you to devise a personalized legal strategy tailored to your unique goals and needs.
• Responsive, accessible service - We are available to answer your questions and address your concerns 24/7. We promptly return all calls and emails and can even meet with you over the weekend or after hours, by appointment.

Our team is also prepared to represent you at your DMV hearing and will fight to protect your driving privileges. We know that, as a commercial driver, your livelihood is on the line, and will do everything possible to help you beat your charges.

To request a free case evaluation, call us at (213) 481-6811 or contact us online.