Panicking about my charges.

Hi all. I have been arrested this weekend for my first (and last) DUI. This is in CA. My BAC was just 0.09% - 0.01 over the legal limit (breathalyzer).

I was caught when I speeded upwards of 90mph (65 limit) and driving in the carpool lane. I thought Id passed all of the sobriety tests (I distinctly remember) yet the officer said I failed miserably, which i thought was rather disputable.

I stayed in jail for 8 hours and was released after. I received a restricted license so I can drive only to/from work.

I received two traffic violations a year ago.

With that said, I could use some advice here.

  1. With this background, how effective would getting a lawyer be?

  2. If not a lawyer, then how could I fight the case for myself to minimize the charges?

  3. What is the average length of time for me to get back my license?

  4. How can I start controlling my urge to speed?

  5. When is the next earliest estimated time when I am able to qualify for a motorcycle permit?

Tl;dr, first DUI, need tips on how best to handle the whole process of going to court and negotiating the charges.

Posted Feb 21, 2016, 9:05 PM UTC · edited

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