Berkeley, CA DUI Law Firms & Lawyers

Yes, you should have been given a temp. If not, go get one from DMV. A little free advice: If arrested for DUI, whether alcohol or drugs, then upon release from jail or booking the defendant is given documents that include a notice that you have only ten days to file a request with DMV for a hearing on an appeal of the automatic suspension of your license imposed by DMV upon your arrest. That is separate and runs consecutively with any suspension that may be imposed by the DMV, or the court upon conviction. Contact DMV and do so, timely if you think you have grounds for appeal, then appear at the scheduled DMV appeal hearing and present your supporting evidence and witness testimony. If you don't know how to do these things effectively, then hire an attorney that does. When questioned, arrested or charged with any crime, the proper questions are, can any evidence obtained in a test, search or statement be used against you, can you be convicted, and what can you do? While this isn't a 'capital case', you certainly face fines and potential jail, so handle it right. No amount of free 'tips and hints' from here or elsewhere are going to effectively help in a legal defense. If you don't know how to represent yourself effectively against an experienced prosecutor intending to convict, then hire an attorney who does, who will try to get a dismissal, charge reduction, diversion, program, or other decent outcome through motions, plea bargain, or take it to trial if appropriate.

Go to court as soon as possible and speak with the clerk to schedule a new date. When you speak to the judge you can explain your mistake. Most judges will withdraw the bench warrant. If you are at all unsure about this, hire a lawyer to help you.