A California DUI charge can turn an accused drunk driver’s life to ruins. The accused driver is suddenly required to understand the California criminal court system and act quickly to protect his or her California driver’s license.

California DUI arrests trigger two separate cases: In court, and at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Although both cases are extremely serious, the DMV case is far more time-sensitive.

Motorists accused of drunk driving in California have only 10 days from the date of their DUI / DWI arrest to request a hearing with the DMV.

The criminal case filed against California DUI defendants consists of two different statutes: California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a), and Vehicle Code Section 23152 (b).

The first count focuses on whether the driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs to the extent that they are “unable to drive their car with the same caution characteristic of a sober person, of ordinary prudence, under the same or similar circumstances.” This is the legal standard for being considered under the influence of alcohol or “DUI” in California courts.