DUI Defense

Victorville DUI Lawyer

Your Drunk Driving Defense in San Bernardino County Starts With Us

At the Law Offices of Brian E. Skibby, we recognize the significant consequences a drunk driving charge can have on your life. With more than 25 years of experience, we provide clients in Victorville with robust, highly personalized legal defense. Our familiarity with the local legal defense and our strong relationships with judges and prosecutors allow us to navigate each case strategically as your DUI defense attorney in Victorville.

DUI charges in Victorville can be complex and intimidating. We support our clients by offering 24-hour emergency assistance, ensuring prompt advice when you need it most. Our firm embraces a hands-on approach, tailoring every strategy to each client. With a client-focused lens, we deliver thorough support, making sure your rights are protected at every stage. If you need a DUI attorney in Victorville, our responsive team provides the guidance you deserve.

Common types of DUI charges handled by our Victorville DUI defense lawyer include:

Call a skilled Victorville DUI lawyer now for a free consultation. Early action can make a major difference—contact us today by calling (909) 695-0095 to start building your defense.

Understanding DUI Laws in Victorville

Victorville, situated in San Bernardino County, follows California's strict regulatory framework regarding DUI offenses. 

Under California Vehicle Code §23152, it is unlawful to operate a motor vehicle:

  • With a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher
  • While under the influence of alcohol or drugs (including prescription or illegal substances)
  • With a BAC of 0.04% or higher for commercial drivers
  • With any measurable BAC if under the age of 21

Even if your BAC is under the legal limit, law enforcement may arrest and charge you if they believe your driving was impaired.

Victorville law enforcement agencies, including the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department, frequently conduct DUI checkpoints, especially during holiday weekends or public events at the San Bernardino County Fairgrounds. The officers assigned use field sobriety tests and chemical testing equipment standardized throughout California, but local weather, lighting, or road conditions can impact outcomes. 

We analyze each arrest’s specifics—including the precise checkpoint location and police conduct—to determine if your constitutional rights were respected and whether any part of your case may benefit from local precedents at the Victorville courthouse.

Potential Penalties for DUI Convictions in California

DUI penalties vary depending on prior offenses, whether injury or property damage occurred, and whether you refused a chemical test.

First Offense DUI

  • Up to 6 months in jail
  • Fines and penalty assessments of $1,500 to $2,000
  • License suspension up to 6 months (plus possible DMV administrative suspension)
  • DUI education program (3 to 9 months)
  • Probation for 3 to 5 years
  • Installation of ignition interlock device (IID) in some counties

Second Offense DUI (within 10 years)

  • 96 hours to 1 year in jail
  • License suspension for 2 years
  • Extended DUI school
  • Mandatory IID installation
  • Higher fines and longer probation

Third Offense DUI

  • Minimum 120 days in jail, up to 1 year
  • 3-year license revocation
  • Up to 30 months of DUI education
  • Mandatory IID
  • Designation as a habitual traffic offender

Felony DUI charges may result from three or more prior convictions, causing injury or death, or having a prior felony DUI.

In San Bernardino County, additional consequences can also apply. A Victorville court may order the installation of an ignition interlock device, especially for repeat or aggravated offenses, and prosecutors occasionally pursue greater penalties if minors were present in the car or an accident resulted in injury near Victor Valley College or local school routes. 

Courts may require supervision programs, Victim Impact Panels, or substance abuse evaluations. Each judge in Victorville has discretion in sentencing, so presenting mitigating factors and pursuing rehabilitative options is crucial whenever possible.

A DUI defense lawyer in Victorville works to help clients avoid or minimize these penalties by challenging prosecution evidence and exploring alternatives to incarceration.

DMV Administrative Hearings in California

After a DUI arrest in California, you face two separate proceedings:

  • Criminal court case
  • DMV administrative hearing

You must request a hearing with the DMV within 10 days of your arrest, or your license will be automatically suspended—even if the criminal charges are dismissed.

 During the hearing, you or your attorney can subpoena witnesses, cross-examine the arresting officer, and present documents about the validity of the stop or the accuracy of the chemical test. Although separate from your court case, DMV findings can affect both driving privileges and available evidence for your legal case. 

Quick action allows time to obtain police reports, witness statements, and breath testing equipment data—key elements for both DMV hearings and court proceedings in Victorville.

At our firm, we handle both parts of your case. The DMV hearing gives you the chance to dispute the suspension and question the strength of the officer’s report and test results. This procedure also helps us gather evidence for your criminal defense.

Comprehensive Defense Tactics for Drunk Driving Charges

Our firm employs targeted defense strategies tailored to the unique circumstances of each case. 

When defending against a DUI charge in Victorville, we evaluate several key factors when building your defense:

  • Field Sobriety Test Issues: The environment for these tests—lighting, weather, and road conditions—can significantly affect the results.
  • Breathalyzer Reliability: Machines require proper maintenance and calibration. Any failure may allow us to challenge the prosecution's evidence.
  • Procedural Errors: These include improper stops, lack of probable cause, or failure to inform you of your rights. Any missteps can lead to dismissals or reduced charges.

We always begin by reviewing the validity of the initial stop. Understanding the events after your stop helps us assess the strength of the charges against you. A clear, well-documented timeline may reveal flaws in the arrest process or prosecution’s case.

In addition, we assess whether all officers followed the guidelines specific to the Victorville station or the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department. We often request calibration logs for breathalyzers at DUI checkpoints in Victorville. 

By understanding the maintenance history or whether local authorities reported equipment issues, we can often challenge the results. Review of body camera footage, dispatch logs, and test administration can reveal errors—any deviation from official standards may provide a strong defense in your case.

Why Choose Our DUI Attorneys? Local Knowledge & Client Dedication

The Law Offices of Brian E. Skibby set themselves apart with a combination of decades of experience and a client-centered approach. Our relationships within the Victorville legal community reflect our credibility and commitment to strong criminal defense. We provide direct, hands-on support for each client and create personalized legal strategies that protect your best interests.

We offer affordable rates, flexible payment plans, and free consultations, so cost doesn’t prevent you from securing high-quality defense representation. Our commitment to transparency and communication ensures that you’re never left wondering about the status of your case.

We have represented many individuals at the Victorville District Courthouse, understanding the differences in prosecutors’ strategies and the expectations of local judges. This practical experience lets us offer guidance not just on state law, but also on local realities within the court system. 

Our longstanding local presence means we anticipate how changes in law enforcement or court practices—from new checkpoint locations to efforts addressing underage drinking—might affect your case. Staying ahead of these trends helps us develop defense strategies that reflect both the requirements of the law and the specifics of criminal cases in Victorville.

Contact Our Dedicated Drunk Driving Defense Team Today

If you're facing a DUI charge in Victorville, time is of the essence. The Law Offices of Brian E. Skibby bring the regional knowledge and years of experience you need to defend your rights and fight for the most favorable outcome. Do not face these serious charges alone—our team stands ready to guide you through every step of your defense. 

Contact us today at (909) 695-0095 for a free consultation and take the first step towards protecting your future.

Frequently Asked Questions About DUI Defense

How Can a DUI Lawyer in Victorville Help Me?

A drunk driving lawyer in Victorville can assist by reviewing the specific details of your arrest, identifying any weak spots in the prosecution's case, and crafting legal strategies to reduce negative outcomes. Lawyers can negotiate with prosecutors, challenge police procedures, and check how evidence was collected. A defense attorney who knows Victorville’s courts can help you understand procedures that impact results. Representation at DMV hearings—separate from criminal court—is also an important aspect of handling DUI charges thoroughly.

Is It Possible to Avoid a DUI Conviction in Victorville?

Yes, you can sometimes avoid a DUI conviction. Problems such as improper procedure, no probable cause, or test inaccuracies may lead to dismissed or reduced charges. In certain cases, first-time offenders can qualify for diversion programs or plea bargains. A DUI lawyer in Victorville helps you understand these options. They can also help you collect paperwork to support your application for local diversion programs, which can boost your chances of acceptance.

How Soon Should I Contact a Lawyer After a DUI Arrest?

Contacting a lawyer right after a DUI arrest is critical. Early intervention lets your attorney preserve evidence, interview witnesses, and prepare for DMV hearings about license suspension. Immediate legal help safeguards your rights and improves your chances for a better outcome. A consultation also gives you an overview of important deadlines, like arraignment and filing any possible defenses.

What Should I Do If I’m Stopped for Suspicion of DUI in Victorville?

If police stop you in Victorville for suspected DUI, stay calm and polite. Give your identification but avoid offering extra information. You can refuse field sobriety and breath tests, but know the potential consequences. Contact an attorney quickly to get guidance tailored to your situation. If you take any tests, keep notes on unusual aspects or discomfort to share with your lawyer, since this information can affect your defense.

Can I Refuse a Breath or Blood Test in Victorville?

In California, you may refuse a preliminary roadside breath test if you are not under arrest. However, once you are lawfully arrested for DUI, the state’s implied consent laws require you to submit to a breath or blood test. Refusing at that stage can lead to increased penalties, including automatic license suspension and enhanced sentencing. A DUI attorney in Victorville can explain your options and defend you against any added refusal consequences.

What Happens to My Driver’s License After a DUI Arrest?

After an arrest, the Department of Motor Vehicles may issue an automatic license suspension unless you request a hearing within 10 days. This hearing is separate from the criminal case and focuses solely on driving privileges. A Victorville DUI lawyer can represent you at the hearing, challenge the suspension, and work to keep you on the road while your case proceeds.

What If This Is My First Time Being Arrested for DUI?

First-time offenders often have more options for minimizing penalties. The court may allow alternatives such as DUI programs, community service, or probation instead of jail time. Some individuals may qualify for diversion or reduced charges, depending on the circumstances. Speaking with a DUI defense attorney early ensures you get a clear picture of the possibilities available in San Bernardino County.

SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION