315 Montgomery St Suite 900
sam@gellerlawsf.com
San Francisco DUI Attorney
San Francisco DUI defense protecting your rights
Why It’s Crucial to Work with Experienced DUI Lawyers in the Bay Area
If you’re facing DUI charges in San Francisco, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A conviction can mean jail time, a suspended license, heavy fines, and a criminal record that follows you for years. You don’t have to face that alone. Geller Law, PC, offers experienced, strategic representation for people who need serious defense.
Our attorneys understand the local courts, the California DUI laws that apply to your case, and the defense strategies that can make a meaningful difference. We carefully examine every detail, including the traffic stop, field sobriety testing, breath or blood test results, and police procedures, to identify weaknesses in the case against you.
You may be worried about losing your license, missing work, paying steep fines, or facing jail time. On top of that, California’s DUI process can move quickly, with both criminal court proceedings and DMV deadlines creating immediate pressure. When you are dealing with that kind of uncertainty, you need legal guidance that is clear, responsive, and focused on protecting your future.
Geller Law, PC, is committed to helping clients in San Francisco face DUI accusations with confidence and a strong legal defense.
The Basics of DUI Charges in San Francisco
California DUI laws are strict, punishing those who drive while impaired by alcohol or drugs. In California, the legal allowed limit for blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08%. Exceeding this limit leads to DUI charges, resulting in hefty fines, driving license suspension, and even jail time. Driving under the influence of drugs also falls under DUI laws.
California enforces varying DUI charges based on factors like a driver’s age, prior DUI offenses, and blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level. Each charge carries specific penalties, including fines, license suspension periods, and potential jail time.
Standard DUI (BAC 0.08% or Above)
The most common DUI charge applies to drivers 21 and over with a BAC of 0.08% or higher. For a first-time offense, penalties may include fines ranging from $390 to $1,000. Also, you may face a six-month license suspension, mandatory DUI education programs, and up to six months in jail.
Repeat offenders face increasingly severe consequences, including longer jail sentences and extended license suspensions.
DUI for Drivers Under 21 (Zero Tolerance)
California’s zero-tolerance policy targets drivers under 21 with a BAC of 0.01% or higher. An initial offense typically results in a one-year license suspension, but no criminal record. However, if the BAC exceeds 0.08%, minors may face misdemeanor charges, fines, and additional penalties.
This strict approach reflects the state’s commitment to discouraging underage drinking and driving.
Commercial DUI (BAC 0.04% or Higher)
Commercial drivers face DUI charges at a reduced BAC threshold of 0.04%. This reflects the increased responsibility that comes with operating larger, more dangerous vehicles. A first offense can result in fines (potentially exceeding $2,500 with fees). They might also face up to six months in jail and a one-year suspension of commercial driving privileges.
If a commercial driver is convicted of a second DUI, a lifetime ban from commercial driving in California is likely.
DUI with Injury
A DUI that results in injuries can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the severity of the harm caused and the driver’s history. Penalties for misdemeanor DUI with injury include fines of up to $5,000, a license suspension of one to three years, and up to one year in jail.
Felony DUI with injury carries more severe penalties, with prison sentences ranging from two to ten years.
Aggravated DUI
Certain factors can elevate a DUI charge to an aggravated DUI, resulting in harsher penalties. Common aggravating factors include:
- Having a BAC of 0.15% or higher
- Driving with a minor passenger
- Speeding excessively while under the influence.
Aggravated DUI convictions often lead to enhanced jail time, higher fines, and extended license suspensions.
At Geller Law, we step in right away to help you face these charges. We challenge the traffic stop itself, question how field sobriety tests were administered, and examine whether the breathalyzer was used and maintained correctly. We also handle the DMV hearing, so your ability to drive may be preserved as your case proceeds.
PRACTICE AREAS
Why Clients in San Francisco Choose Geller Law, PC, for DUI Defense
You need a lawyer who knows exactly what to challenge and who moves quickly enough to protect your options. At Geller Law, PC, attorney Samuel Geller brings focused, hands-on defense to every DUI case he takes.
Sam Geller Handles Your Case Himself
Samuel Geller works your case from day one. No handoffs, no junior staff fielding your calls. You get direct access to the attorney who makes decisions, builds a strategy, and shows up for you in court. That kind of access matters when your license, your job, and your freedom are on the line
A Trial Attorney Built for High-Stakes DUI Defense
Sam Geller is an experienced trial attorney. His work centers on serious criminal charges — the kind where evidence gets challenged hard, and outcomes matter most. DUI charges involve technical evidence such as breath test results, field sobriety test results, and police reports. Sam knows how to attack that evidence where it’s weak. He doesn’t settle for less when the prosecution’s case has gaps.
Recognized by Peers
Additionally, Samuel Geller has been named a Super Lawyers Rising Star, an honor awarded to outstanding up-and-coming attorneys. He has also been recognized as one of the Top 40 Under 40 Trial Lawyers, reflecting his skill and reputation as a trial advocate.
A Practice Focused on DUI — Not Spread Thin
Geller Law focuses on DUI defense as a primary practice area. That focus is intentional. A firm that handles every legal matter under the sun is not the same as one that knows DUI law inside and out. Sam knows California DUI law, the local San Francisco courts, and how cases like yours tend to play out. That knowledge shapes every defense strategy.
Personalized, Aggressive Strategy Every Time
Every DUI case is different. BAC level, how the stop happened, and whether there was an accident. These facts change everything. Sam reviews your specific situation and develops a strategy tailored to it. He doesn’t use a one-size-fits-all playbook. He looks for the angle that gives you the strongest possible outcome.
Geller Law, PC’s Approach to DUI Defense: What to Expect
A DUI case in California moves through several clear stages. Knowing what comes next can make you feel prepared.
If you’re facing DUI charges in San. Francisco, here is what to expect at each step:
Step 1 — Arrest
Officers may observe driving behavior, conduct a field sobriety test, or use breath testing devices.
Step 2 — Initial Consultation
Sam Geller listens to the facts and gives you honest, direct feedback. You leave the call with a clear sense of where you stand.
Step 3 — Document Review
Geller Law, PC, pulls every record tied to your arrest. This includes the police report, breathalyzer data, and any video footage.
Our approach includes challenging the legality of the traffic stop, questioning the breathalyzer’s accuracy, investigating the chain of custody, and reviewing the officer’s conduct. Courts may dismiss evidence if obtained through an unlawful stop. Any procedural errors in collection, transportation, or storage can invalidate results.
Step 4 — Strategy Planning
Once we have reviewed your records, we can build your defense plan. Every DUI case is different. Sam Geller is prepared to walk you through the strategy before any court date.
Step 5 — DMV Hearing
In California, you have just 10 days after a DUI arrest to request a DMV hearing. Miss that window, and your license is suspended automatically. We request the hearing on your behalf and fight to protect your driving rights. The DMV hearing is separate from your criminal court case and focuses solely on your driving privileges.
Step 6 — Court Representation
Sam Geller can appear in court and handle all arguments on your behalf. This covers arraignment, pre-trial motions, and any negotiations with the prosecutor. Many cases are resolved before trial through reduced charges or dismissed counts.
DUI charges in San Francisco are handled by the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco.
Step 7 — Resolution
Our goal is to achieve the most favorable result considering your case, whether that is a reduction, a dismissal, or a strong defense at trial. We keep you informed at every turn. No surprises. No confusion. Just clear guidance from start to finish.
Contact Us Today for Skilled Representation
A DUI charge in San Francisco can shake your confidence and put your future at risk. You don’t have to face it alone. From challenging stop-and-test results to handling DMV deadlines and court appearances, at Geller Law, PC, our team is prepared to fight for the best possible outcome.
The Bay Area court system moves fast. The sooner you act, the more options you have. Delays can cost you in court and at the DMV.
Reach out to Geller Law now. Sam will listen, review your facts, and give you honest guidance on where you stand. No pressure.
Contact us now and schedule a free initial consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- 1. What are common defenses a DUI attorney might use?
- 2. How can a DUI conviction affect my driver’s license and record?
- 3. What kinds of penalties might I face if convicted of DUI?
A DUI defense attorney may question whether the traffic stop was lawful, whether field-sobriety or chemical tests were administered correctly, whether results were accurate, or whether your constitutional rights were respected. They may also explore alternative resolutions such as diversion programs or reduced charges.
A DUI conviction can lead to a suspended or revoked driver’s license, increased insurance rates, and a permanent mark on your driving record. Your attorney can help you understand the administrative hearings to which you may be entitled. They can also assist you in pursuing reinstatement or hardship permits.
Penalties can include fines, mandatory DUI education or treatment programs, probation, community service, license suspension or restriction, and, in some cases, jail time. The severity of penalties often depends on other factors. These factors include prior DUI history, blood-alcohol level, and whether anyone was injured.