San Francisco, California Out-of-State Residents DUI Defense Lawyer

Marin County Drunk Driving Tourist Arrest Attorney

If you were arrested for DUI while visiting California, you face potential penalties both in California and possibly in your home state as well. For out-of-state drivers, the DUI process is similar to the process for in-state drivers, but there are some added complications. The legal consequences will also vary depending on the state you are from. If you find yourself in this situation, it is important to speak to a skilled DUI defense attorney with particular experience representing out-of-state residents.

At Burglin Law Offices, P.C., we have successfully represented out-of-state residents who have been arrested for DUI in California since 1985. Attorney Paul Burglin co-authors California Drunk Driving Law, a two-volume treatise that is commonly referred to as "the Bible of DUI defense" by attorneys throughout the state. Paul knows the ins and outs of California DUI law, and the most effective defense strategies to have your charges reduced or dismissed so you can minimize the negative consequences. His successful track record and in-depth knowledge of the California Superior Court system are major reasons DMV hearing officers, judges, and prosecutors frequently seek him out when someone close to them has been arrested for DUI.

California DUIs for Out-of-State Residents

If you are from another state and are arrested for DUI in California, the police officer will give you a notice that your driving privileges in California will be suspended in 30 days. Your home state will also be notified of your DUI charge, and it may also take action to suspend your license. You have 10 days from the date of your arrest to request a California DMV hearing and challenge your suspension. It is in your best interests to request this hearing, because it may not be scheduled for several months, and in the mean-time, your case may be resolved.

Do I have to Be Present During my California DUI Proceedings?

Unless the judge orders you to be personally present for one or more hearings you need not be, except for felony cases, in which some appearances are required. Attorney Burglin is usually able to avoid such orders from the court so that you don't have to incur unnecessary time and travel costs. Mr. Burglin will also do the other work on your case without your presence, such as discovery, negotiating with prosecutors, and preliminary court proceedings.

Another significant benefit in having attorney Burglin handle your case is that his position as Dean Emeritus of the National College of DUI Defense provides him with a network of qualified DUI defense attorneys across the county who can advise and counsel him (and ultimately you) on the home state consequences of a sister-state DUI incident.

What Will Happen to Me in my Home State if I Am Convicted for DUI in California?

That depends. Most states, with the exception of Michigan, Wisconsin, Massachusetts, Georgia, and Tennessee, are part of the Interstate Driver's License Compact (IDLC). If your home state belongs to the IDLC, your state will likely take action against you if you are pulled over for DUI. Some states take action immediately upon arrest, while others take action only upon conviction. Your home state may suspend your driver's license if your California driving privileges are suspended by the California DMV.

Speak with a Knowledgeable San Francisco Out-of-State Residents DUI Defense Lawyer

Being arrested for DUI in California as an out-of-state resident presents unique challenges. Having to handle your case remotely without being familiar with the laws and process is daunting, and the legal consequences of a conviction can haunt you for years to come. Attorney Paul Burglin understands what is at stake, and he will fight hard on your behalf to fully protect your rights and interests, so your situation can be mitigated as much as possible.

If you are an out-of-state driver facing a DUI charge in California, contact our office today at 415-729-7300 for a free, personalized consultation with attorney Burglin. We serve clients throughout the Bay Area, including Marin County, Tiburon, Sausalito, Mill Valley, Larkspur, San Rafael, Novato, San Anselmo, and Fairfax. We handle locals and tourists cited in the wine country, Sonoma and Napa, as well as those cited in San Francisco, Oakland, and Martinez.