Felony DUI Attorney in Dublin

Facing Felony DUI Charges in Dublin? Get Support You Can Trust

When you face a felony DUI accusation in Dublin, the situation brings serious risks to your future and freedom. At The Law Office Of Christopher A. Lamiero, we help you understand what’s ahead and defend what matters most—your rights and your reputation. 

Our team uses over 30 years of criminal law experience to guide you through every step with the clarity and dedication you deserve.

Many people charged with felony DUI in Dublin have never had to navigate the criminal system. We answer your questions, provide straightforward explanations of what to expect at each phase, and stand with you to help reduce confusion and stress.

Secure a Dublin felony DUI lawyer to avoid state prison. Schedule your free consultations by calling (925) 259-3337 or reach out online now. We are available 24/7.

Understanding California’s Felony DUI Laws

In California, a DUI is primarily charged as a felony under four scenarios, all of which are subject to prosecution in the Alameda County Superior Courts.

The Four Pathways to a Felony DUI

• DUI Causing Injury (VC §23153): This is a wobbler offense (can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony) when the driver's negligent act while intoxicated proximately causes bodily injury to another person. As a felony, penalties include up to four years in state prison, plus possible sentencing enhancements.
• Fourth DUI Offense (VC §23550.5): Having three or more prior convictions (including "wet reckless") within the preceding 10 years automatically makes the subsequent DUI charge a felony.
• Prior Felony DUI Conviction: If the defendant has any prior felony DUI conviction on their record, any new DUI charge (even if injury-free) must be charged as a felony.
• Vehicular Homicide/Murder: Causing a death while intoxicated results in charges of Vehicular Manslaughter (PC §191.5) or, in cases of extreme recklessness with prior knowledge, Second-Degree Murder ("Watson Murder," PC §187).

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of a Felony DUI Conviction in California

A conviction for a felony DUI carries direct penalties that escalate sharply due to California’s sentencing laws, particularly the use of enhancements.

Direct Sentencing Consequences

• State Prison Time: Sentences range from 16 months up to three years for the base felony, served in state prison.
• Great Bodily Injury (GBI) Enhancement: If the victim suffers GBI, an additional 3 to 6 years in state prison can be added consecutively to the base sentence.
• "Strike" Offense: Felony DUI convictions resulting in GBI or death are classified as a "strike" under the Three Strikes Law, exposing the defendant to the 25-years-to-life penalty for a third felony.
• License Revocation: Mandatory four-year license revocation, often followed by a mandatory, lengthy Ignition Interlock Device (IID) requirement.

Lifelong Collateral Consequences

• Permanent Felony Record: A felony conviction is permanent and cannot be sealed or expunged.
• Loss of Civil Rights: Lifelong loss of the right to vote and possess firearms.
• Immigration Consequences: Felony DUIs are classified as "aggravated felonies" under federal immigration law, resulting in mandatory deportation for non-citizens.

The California Criminal Defense Process for Felony DUI

The process for a felony DUI in Dublin involves a high-stakes, two-track battle against the DMV and the Alameda County District Attorney.

• DMV Administrative Per Se (APS) Hearing: The defendant has only 10 days from the date of arrest to request a hearing to contest the administrative license suspension. We immediately file this request, using the hearing to cross-examine the arresting officer and gather sworn testimony for the criminal trial.
• Grand Jury/Preliminary Hearing: We leverage the preliminary hearing in Superior Court to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and advocate for a dismissal or reduction of the felony charge.
• Motion to Suppress Evidence: We challenge the core evidence of intoxication, arguing:
  • The traffic stop lacked reasonable suspicion.
  • The blood/breath test was administered improperly, or the Intoxilyzer device was defective or improperly calibrated.
  • The chain of custody for the blood sample was compromised.
• Felony Mitigation Negotiation: We fight aggressively to reduce the felony charge to a misdemeanor (if injury is minor) or negotiate a plea to a "wet reckless" (Vehicle Code §23103.5), which avoids the most severe sentencing enhancements.

Our Comprehensive Approach to Felony DUI Defense

The Law Office Of Christopher A. Lamiero provides a defense built on forensic analysis, prosecutorial insight, and a focused effort to mitigate the felony strike designation.

• Challenging the Prior Convictions: We attack the constitutional validity of the defendant’s three prior convictions to eliminate the statutory felony enhancement under VC §23550.5.
• Causation Defense: We utilize independent accident reconstructionists to prove the accident was caused by the victim's negligence, weather, or road hazards—not the client's intoxication—thereby negating the felony injury charge (VC §23153).
• Scientific Defense: We specialize in challenging the science of the BAC test, including the use of the "Rising BAC" defense to show the defendant was legally under the limit at the time of driving.

Why Choose a Felony DUI Defense Attorney in Dublin You Can Rely On?

We know the anxiety a felony DUI charge creates—and the questions that follow. Led by Attorney Christopher A. Lamiero, our firm brings a unique perspective as a former state prosecutor. We use that insight to examine your case from all angles, anticipating how prosecutors may build their arguments. 

We serve clients across Dublin, Alameda County, and Contra Costa County by offering:

• Decades of focused criminal defense — We leverage over 30 years in criminal law to develop smart strategies for complex situations.
• Personalized attention — Every case receives our full focus, considering your life, your needs, and your future goals.
• Clear, honest communication — We keep you informed and involved, so you never feel left out of your own defense.
• Access for the whole community — We offer bilingual legal support (se habla español) to ensure clarity and comfort for every client.

Our approach as felony DUI defense attorneys provides a direct advantage for clients in Dublin and the surrounding area. We draw from experience handling cases in local Dublin courts as well as across Alameda and Contra Costa Counties. 

Our firm knows how local prosecutors review evidence, what factors judges weigh, and how the DMV process impacts criminal cases. This insight lets us shape your defense to fit the specific procedures and expectations in our local courts.

Your Path Forward: A Personalized Felony Drunk Driving Lawyer in Dublin

We guide you through this complex process by focusing on your unique story. Here’s what you can expect when you choose us for your defense:

• Case analysis — We review police reports, evidence, and all case circumstances to build a personalized plan.
• Identification of key risks & opportunities — We pinpoint weak points in the prosecution’s approach and present your side clearly and powerfully.
• Communication & guidance — We explain possible outcomes, answer your questions, and let you know what to expect at each stage.
• Continuous advocacy — We stand by you throughout, from arraignment to resolution, never losing sight of your rights and your goals.

Tailored Defense Approaches for Felony DUI Cases

Throughout the process, we tailor our approach based on your background and the specifics of your case. Whether your charges stem from an accident, multiple prior convictions, or another unique circumstance, we focus on identifying every detail that could make a difference. 

By learning about your work, your family needs, and how these charges impact your daily life, we can help you understand the full range of your options. 

Contact a Felony DUI Lawyer in Dublin for Guidance

Felony DUI charges threaten your freedom, finances, and long-term wellbeing—but you do not have to face this alone. When you contact The Law Office Of Christopher A. Lamiero, you gain guidance from a dedicated team focused on preserving your rights and supporting you at every turn.

Call (925) 259-3337 or reach out online today to discuss your case confidentially.