Hillsboro DUI Lawyer

Advocating for Your Rights After a DUI Arrest in Washington County

Being pulled over under suspicion of driving under the influence can be stressful. From the minute you see the flashing lights until you are being put into the back of a cop car, you may be panicking and wondering what to do.

It is important that you do not answer questions from law enforcement (besides giving them your basic information) and ask to speak with a Hillsboro DUI defense lawyer right away.

At Cornerstone Law Group, we have 8 decades of combined experience fighting DUI cases in Hillsboro and Washington County, Oregon. 

If you're charged with DUI in Hillsboro, Oregon, contact Cornerstone Law Group for an experienced and successful criminal defense lawyer. We'll help you navigate the complex legal process and protect your rights. 

Our team will analyze the details, identify any weaknesses in the prosecution's case, and explore all possible legal options. We offer a free and confidential consultation. Call our law office now to protect your future with the justice you deserve.

Have you been arrested for a DUI? Call Cornerstone Law Group today at (503) 461-5005 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our Hillsboro, Oregon, DUI defense lawyer.

Oregon's Implied Consent Law

Under Oregon's implied consent law, anyone driving on "premises open to the public or the highways of this state" has automatically consented to a breath, blood, and or urine test. This means if a driver is lawfully arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence and refuse to take a breath, blood, and or urine test, they can be subject to strict penalties, including having their license suspended.

A driver who refuses a blood, breath, and or urine test faces the following license suspension periods:

• First Offense: 1 year
• Second Offense: 3 years
• Third Offense: 3 years

What Are Probable Causes for DUI Arrests?

In order for an arrest to be deemed 'lawful," a police officer must have probable cause before pulling someone over. Often times the probable cause can include but is not limited to:

• Swerving
• Running a red light
• Speeding
• Reckless driving

During the arrest, once these tests have been refused and a license has been taken, the officer will issue a 30-day temporary driving permit to qualifying drivers. If you have recently refused a blood, breath, or urine test, time is not on your side. In order to avoid further potential penalties, it is vital that you contact a Washington County DUI lawyer as soon as possible to begin building your defense.

Consequences of DUI Convictions in Oregon

Every state treats DUI charges slightly differently, as does each judge in criminal courts and DMV hearings. Being prepared is essential, especially when it comes to having proper representation during your hearings to give you the best chance of a positive outcome. The penalties for a DUI conviction of any type can be severe; working with a skilled DUI lawyer can make a difference in the outcome of your case. Depending on the circumstances of your alleged offense, penalties may include:

First Offense DUI Penalties

• minimum $1000 fine
• 1 year driver's license suspension
• Ignition Interlock Device for 1 year after your license suspension
• Program for Drugs & Alcohol
• Victims Impact Program

Second Offense DUI Penalties

• Minimum 48 hours in jail or 80 hours of community service. Up to 1 year in jail is possible.
• $1,500-6,250 in fines
• 1-3 year driver's license suspension
• Ignition Interlock Device for 2 years after the suspension
• Up to 5 years probation
• Program for Drugs & Alcohol (12-20 hours per week)
• Victim's Impact Program
• Misdemeanor Conviction

Third Offense DUI Penalties (Within Ten Years of First)

• 90 days - 5 years incarcerated
• $2,000-10,000 in fines
• Permanently revoked license (You may petition to restore driving privilege after 10 years, and it will still require you to have an Interlock Ignition Device)
• 2 years supervised probation
• Program for Drugs & Alcohol (12-20 hours per week)
• Victim's Impact Program
• Felony Conviction on record

What Happens If You Get a DUI With a Child in the Car in Oregon?

In Oregon, being arrested for a DUI with a child in the car can lead to child endangerment charges and more severe penalties on the DUI charge. The minimum fine is $2,000, regardless of your BAC, and the minimum fine can be up to $10,000 if a child is in the vehicle at the time of your arrest. Your driver's license can also be permanently suspended. 

What Constitutes a Felony DUI in Oregon?

In Oregon, a DUI is a felony if the person has two DUIs within ten years, including those from other states. A first DUI is usually a misdemeanor, but a third DUI within ten years is a Class C felony. A Class C felony can result in up to five years in prison, $125,000 in fines, and a lifetime revocation of driving privileges. 

Get Legal Help from Our DUI Lawyer in Hillsboro, OR

Knowing your rights and what to expect when you are pulled over can help ensure your rights are protected and that you do not make any major mistakes. In addition to asking to speak to a DUI lawyer, it is vital that you do not plead guilty, agree to any search without a warrant, or get upset with law enforcement.