Why Choose Us?

Even first-time DUI charges can result in serious penalties and collateral consequences upon conviction. If you are currently faced with a DUI charge, the legal team at Chudnovsky Law can aggressively fight for your interests. Our team is made up of top criminal defense attorneys, as well as former government prosecutors. We know how to look at cases from both sides, and we use that knowledge to benefit our clients. We have successfully fought more than 9,000 criminal cases and jury trials, and we are prepared to aggressively advocate for your interests right away.

Elements of a Long Beach DUI Charge

To convict you of DUI in Long Beach, California, a prosecutor must prove certain legal elements beyond a reasonable doubt. These elements are based on California Vehicle Code Section 23152 and apply whether the charge involves alcohol, drugs, or both.

First, the prosecutor must prove that you were driving a vehicle. This may seem simple, but it can sometimes be challenged. For example, if you were asleep in a parked car or sitting in the driver’s seat with the engine off, the prosecutor must still prove you were in control of the car and intended to drive.

Next, the prosecutor must prove that, while driving, you were under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. “Under the influence” means your physical or mental abilities were impaired to the point that you could not drive as a cautious, sober person would under similar conditions. If the case involves alcohol, the prosecutor can also rely on your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). If your BAC was 0.08% or higher at the time of driving, you can be charged under a separate part of the DUI law, known as a “per se” DUI.

Evidence used to prove these elements can include results from a breath, blood, or urine test, as well as field sobriety test results, officer observations, driving patterns, and witness statements. If drugs are involved, the prosecutor may use drug recognition expert testimony or lab test results.

To get a conviction, the prosecutor must convince the jury or judge that all elements of the crime are true beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is any reasonable doubt about whether you were driving, impaired, or over the legal BAC limit at the time, then you must be found not guilty.

At Chudnovsky Law, our skilled Long Beach DUI lawyers can review the evidence, challenge test results, and fight for your rights in court.

Potential Penalties of a Long Beach DUI Conviction

If you are convicted of DUI in Long Beach, California, you may face serious legal penalties under state law. The exact punishment depends on several factors, including whether it is your first DUI or if you have prior convictions within the last ten years. The presence of aggravating factors, like high blood alcohol levels or injuries to others, can also increase the penalties.

For a first-time DUI offense, the penalties usually include up to six months in county jail, a fine that can total around $2,000 after fees and assessments, and a six-month driver’s license suspension. The court may also order you to attend a DUI education program that can last from three to nine months, depending on your blood alcohol concentration. In some cases, the judge may require you to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in your car, which prevents the vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected on your breath.

For a second DUI offense within ten years, the penalties become harsher. You could face up to one year in jail, higher fines, a two-year license suspension, and a longer DUI education program. The judge will likely require you to install an IID for at least one year.

A third DUI conviction carries even steeper penalties. You may face up to one year in jail, a three-year license revocation, and be required to complete a 30-month DUI education program. An IID may also be required for up to two years.

If your DUI involves an accident that injures another person, the offense may be charged as a felony. A felony DUI conviction can result in time in state prison, much higher fines, and a longer loss of your driver’s license.

Judges have some discretion in sentencing and may consider alternative penalties such as community service, probation, or work release programs. However, these are not guaranteed.

Because of the serious nature of DUI penalties, it is important to take the charges seriously. Our skilled Long Beach DUI defense lawyers at Chudnovsky Law can help you understand your options and fight to reduce or dismiss the charges.

Collateral Consequences of a Long Beach DUI Conviction

A DUI conviction in Long Beach, California, can have serious consequences beyond the fines, jail time, and license suspension ordered by the court. These additional effects are called collateral consequences, and they can impact many parts of your life long after your case is over.

One of the biggest collateral consequences is the effect on your job. If your job requires you to drive, such as working as a delivery driver, truck driver, or ride-share driver, a DUI can lead to suspension or loss of your employment. Even if you don’t drive for work, some employers may be less willing to hire someone with a criminal conviction, especially for positions that require trust, responsibility, or working with the public.

A DUI conviction can also affect professional licenses. If you are a nurse, teacher, lawyer, or hold another type of license, a DUI might lead to disciplinary action from your licensing board. This could include a warning, suspension, or even the loss of your license, depending on your profession and whether you have any prior offenses.

You may also face higher car insurance rates. Insurance companies often raise premiums or cancel coverage for drivers with a DUI. Some may even require you to file a special form with the DMV to prove that you carry the minimum required insurance.

For students, a DUI conviction might affect your eligibility for financial aid or admission to certain colleges or programs. In some cases, schools may take disciplinary action as well.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, a DUI conviction can also lead to immigration consequences. Depending on the circumstances, it might impact your ability to get a visa, apply for a green card, or remain in the country.

Although a DUI is often treated as a misdemeanor, the long-term effects can be life-changing. These collateral consequences show why it’s important to take a DUI charge seriously.

Common Defenses to a DUI Charge in Long Beach

If you are charged with DUI in Long Beach, California, there are several legal defenses that may help you fight the charges. The best defense depends on the facts of your case, but an experienced DUI lawyer can review the evidence and decide which strategies may work in your favor.

One common defense is that you were not actually driving the vehicle. The law requires the prosecutor to prove that you were driving while under the influence. If the police found you sitting in a parked car or asleep in the driver’s seat without the engine running, it may be difficult for them to show that you were operating the vehicle.

Another defense is that the traffic stop was unlawful. Police must have a valid reason to pull you over, such as a traffic violation or reasonable suspicion of a crime. If the officer did not have a legal reason to stop you, any evidence collected afterward, like breath test results, may be thrown out.

A defense based on faulty breath or blood test results is also common. Breathalyzer machines must be properly maintained and used by trained officers. If the machine was not calibrated correctly or the officer did not follow correct procedures, the test results may not be reliable. Similarly, blood samples must be handled and stored correctly. Any errors in the testing process can lead to false results.

You may also argue that a medical condition or other factor affected the test. For example, acid reflux, diabetes, or certain medications can cause a breathalyzer to show a higher alcohol level than what is actually in your blood.

Another possible defense is rising blood alcohol. This means that your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was below the legal limit while you were driving, but increased afterward due to alcohol being absorbed into your system. If the test was done much later, it may not reflect your BAC at the time of driving.

How We Can Handle Your Long Beach DUI Case for You

If you are facing DUI charges in Long Beach, California, the experienced criminal defense attorneys at Chudnovsky Law can help you through every step of the legal process. A DUI charge is serious, but you don’t have to face it alone. With years of experience handling DUI cases in Southern California, Chudnovsky Law understands how to build a strong defense and protect your future.

From the moment you contact the firm, our legal team begins reviewing every detail of your case. We examine the police report, test results, and any bodycam or dashcam footage to look for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Whether it’s an unlawful traffic stop, faulty breath test equipment, or mistakes made during your arrest, our DUI attorneys work hard to find any evidence that can be challenged in court.

Our attorneys also know how to negotiate effectively with prosecutors. In some cases, we may be able to get your charges reduced or even dismissed. If going to trial becomes necessary, our courtroom experience allows us to present a strong and persuasive defense on your behalf.

We also help you understand what to expect and guide you through DMV hearings, license suspension issues, and mandatory court appearances. With so much on the line—your freedom, your license, your job—our Long Beach DUI defense attorneys fight to protect your rights every step of the way.

Chudnovsky Law has earned a reputation for professionalism, honesty, and results. We treat every case with the attention it deserves and always aim to get the best outcome possible for our clients.

Steps to Take if You’re Arrested for DUI in Long Beach

If you are arrested for DUI in Long Beach, California, taking the right steps immediately can make a big difference in the outcome of your case. First, remain calm and respectful when dealing with the police. Do not resist arrest or argue, as this can make the situation worse. You have the right to remain silent, and it’s always best to use it. You don’t have to answer questions about where you were coming from, whether you’ve been drinking, or how much alcohol you consumed.

Next, make sure to request a DMV hearing within 10 days of your arrest. If you don’t, your license will automatically be suspended. This hearing is separate from your criminal case and is your chance to fight the license suspension.

Most importantly, contact Chudnovsky Law right away. Our experienced DUI defense attorneys understand California DUI laws and know how to handle cases in Long Beach courts. We can challenge the traffic stop, field sobriety tests, or chemical test results. With so much at stake—your freedom, your license, and your future—you need our skilled Long Beach DUI defense lawyers fighting for your rights.

Don’t delay. The sooner you call Chudnovsky Law, the sooner we can start building a strong defense to protect you.

Speak with an Experienced Long Beach DUI Lawyer Today

At Chudnovsky Law, our legal team is ready to fight for your rights and interests and pursue the best possible case result on your behalf. For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a knowledgeable DUI lawyer in Long Beach, please call us at (562) 800-4080 or contact us online for more information. 

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Chudnovsky Law · Criminal & DUI Lawyers - Long Beach Office

Address: 309 Pine Ave, Suite 200, Long Beach, CA 90802

Contact No: (562) 800-4080