DUI vs DWI laws vary by state—learn the key differences, penalties, and why choosing the right defense matters for your case.
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DWI Defense Attorney KAREEM A. RAMADAN has the depth of legal talent you need to win your case.
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Best DUI Lawyer in California – Aggressive DWI Defense You Can Trust
If you’ve been arrested for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) or DWI (Driving While Impaired) in California, the clock is already ticking. The prosecution will start building its case against you immediately — aiming for the harshest penalties possible. To protect your driving privileges, freedom, and future, you need an experienced DUI defense attorney on your side right away.
At Kareem Law APC, we have over a decade of experience defending DUI and DWI cases across California. We know how the system works, and we know how to fight back.
DWI vs. DUI – What’s the Difference in California?
While the terms DUI and DWI are often used interchangeably, there is a legal distinction in California:
DUI (Driving Under the Influence): Typically charged when your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher (0.04% for commercial drivers, 0.01% for drivers under 21).
DWI (Driving While Impaired): May be charged if your BAC is below 0.08% but you are still impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both.
Both offenses carry serious consequences, including license suspension, fines, mandatory programs, and possible jail time.
Penalties for DUI/DWI in California
The severity of your penalties depends on your BAC, prior offenses, and whether aggravating factors were involved (accident, injury, minors in the vehicle, etc.).
First Offense:
- License suspension (up to 6–10 months)
- Fines and penalty assessments totaling $1,500–$2,000+
- Mandatory DUI education program
Possible jail time (up to 6 months)
Second Offense:
- Longer license suspension or revocation
- Higher fines
- Mandatory ignition interlock device (IID)
- Possible jail time up to 1 year
Felony DUI/DWI:
Charged when injuries, fatalities, or multiple prior convictions are involved — penalties can include several years in state prison.
Why You Need a Skilled DWI Defense Lawyer
An experienced DWI defense lawyer can mean the difference between a conviction and a dismissal. At Kareem Law APC, we:
Investigate whether police had probable cause to stop you
Challenge the accuracy of breath, blood, or field sobriety tests
Identify procedural errors that could lead to case dismissal
Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative sentencing
Represent you aggressively at DMV hearings and in court
We’ve helped countless clients avoid the worst consequences of DUI/DWI charges.
Common Defenses in DUI/DWI Cases
Your defense strategy will depend on the facts of your case, but common approaches include:
Improper Traffic Stop: Lack of reasonable suspicion or probable cause
Faulty Breathalyzer or Blood Test: Calibration errors, contamination, or mishandling of samples
Medical Conditions: Certain health issues can mimic intoxication symptoms
Rising BAC: Alcohol level increased between driving and testing
Violation of Rights: Failure to follow proper arrest procedures
What to Do After a DUI/DWI Arrest
If you’ve been arrested for DUI or DWI in California:
Contact a DUI defense attorney immediately — you have limited time to request a DMV hearing to save your license.
Do not discuss your case with law enforcement without legal representation.
Document everything about the stop, arrest, and testing process.
Follow your lawyer’s guidance to protect your rights and avoid mistakes.
Why Choose Kareem Law APC
Over 10 years of DUI and DWI defense experience
Proven record of reduced charges, dismissals, and acquittals
Personalized defense strategies tailored to your unique case
Aggressive advocacy in both court and DMV hearings
We fight to protect your license, your freedom, and your future.
Speak With the Best DUI Lawyer in California Today
If you or a loved one is facing DUI or DWI charges, don’t wait — contact Kareem A. Ramadan at Kareem Law APC now. The sooner we start building your defense, the better your chances of success.
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Arrested for a DWI crime? For the sake of your freedom and your future, do not delay.
Call (888)-506-6519 now.
Best DWI Defense Lawyer
If you have been charged with DUI/DWI in California, rest assured that Kareem Law APC will not judge you. After running afoul of the law, it is our responsibility to serve as your advocates, whom you may consult in strict confidence. If you decide to retain our services, we will immediately begin analyzing the details of your case. Together with you, our California DWI defense attorneys will go above and beyond to develop a strategy designed to safeguard your driving privileges, rights, freedom, and future.
If at all possible, we will negotiate a resolution to your case that will result in no driver’s license suspension, criminal penalties, or criminal record. Other possible positive outcomes include reduced sentences and probation. Nevertheless, our DUI/DWI defense attorneys find opportunities in every obstacle to help you achieve your objectives and close the case.
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Questions To Ask When Choosing Your Criminal Defense Attorney
Can a DUI be dismissed in CA?
You may have a first-time DUI offense dismissed in California. A dismissal means the court completely drops the charges against you. The DUI charge no longer shows up on your record and does not count against you as a priorable offense. Note that you must plead not guilty to get your charges dismissed.
Is jail time mandatory for 1st DUI in California?
In California, jail time is practically mandatory for people convicted of a DUI. Even if it is your first offense and no one was injured, a judge can sentence you to six months in jail.
Can you drive after a DUI before court date in California?
If you have requested a hearing within 10 days after your arrest, there is a stay of any suspension and you can drive without any restriction until the DMV hearing and/or court case has been resolved.
Make Sure You Hire a Reliable Criminal Defense Attorney
When you are facing criminal charges, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney you can trust. Kareem has been practicing criminal law for more than a decade and is one of the most trusted and highly rated attorneys. Whether you need help with a domestic violence case, felony and misdemeanor cases, theft crimes, or any other criminal charges, call Kareem Law APC for excellent legal representation. Kareem is a compassionate criminal lawyer who will protect your rights, guide you through every step of the process, provide you with the legal counsel you deserve, and fight hard to obtain optimal results. Call today at (888)-506-6519 or use our online contact form to schedule contact with a seasoned criminal defense lawyer in Riverside.
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Read Reviews from Our Former Clients
I was faced with a case that never in my life I’d imagine to be dealing with that could’ve had detrimental effects on my life and career ending. Kareem was the best defense I had to get my life back together. From start to finish Kareem was very attentive, informative and determined to help get this fixed and he did! The case was never filed! Thank you!
I was arrested and was facing 2 felonies in October and spent some time sitting in county jail. After calling tens of lawyers to help I immediately knew Kareem would provide the help I was looking for. He walked me through the entire court process and was very reassuring that I had nothing to worry about. It is a great feeling when you have a confident lawyer behind you. Kareem managed to get my case dismissed and I have no charges on my record now. I don’t think I would have this result if it weren’t for his help. I would recommend him to anyone. He knows what he’s doing and he is the man for the job.
Before hiring Kareem Law I made the mistake of listening to some ads for personal injury attorneys on the radio. I did not know what to expect since this was my first time needing to hire an attorney. The first office never returned my calls and never connected me with an attorney. I thought attorneys wanted to help their clients not treat them like dirt. I found Kareem's office after a family member told me of an attorney who did excellent work on his personal injury case.
From the first call with Kareem he created a strong relationship with me where I felt appreciated and heard. Mr. Ramadan was always available when I needed answers and did a fabulous job settling my case.
From the first call with Kareem he created a strong relationship with me where I felt appreciated and heard. Mr. Ramadan was always available when I needed answers and did a fabulous job settling my case.
I was very fortunate to have had Kareem as my attorney. From our very first conversation, I could tell he was very knowledgeable and experienced. His empathy and care for my situation, were encouraging and made me feel safe. Kareem was very personable, reachable, and communicated clearly. Kareem put a lot of effort to get the case dismissed and achieve a complete resolution without the additional stress of a trial. I am beyond grateful to him!
Never in my life, did I think I would need a criminal defense attorney. A close family member committed a federal crime and suddenly I was searching for a criminal defense attorney. I submitted an inquiry to all lawyers in the Upland area and I am so thankful that Attorney Kareem was quick to reply on a Sunday afternoon!
The next day, he was already doing a jail visit with my family member. The following day, we were meeting and discussing the case in his office. Right from the beginning,
Kareem expressed his care and compassion for us and my incarcerated family member. He also made us feel very comfortable telling us a personal story of his that made him appreciate nurses, which my mom and I are! This life journey of his, made us feel that he knows the value of life and our family member would be in excellent hands.
Kareem was always available to answer all our questions. If you call him or text him, he will always respond right away or within a few hours. This was an extremely difficult time in our lives and Kareem was always there to ease our minds. When trying to find an attorney who is going to save your life or a close family members, you have to fully trust your lawyer and Kareem is that man. He strongly advocated for my family member and got him released from jail with a mental health diversion. This was the goal from the beginning and we could not be more thankful to Attorney Kareem for the outcome.
The next day, he was already doing a jail visit with my family member. The following day, we were meeting and discussing the case in his office. Right from the beginning,
Kareem expressed his care and compassion for us and my incarcerated family member. He also made us feel very comfortable telling us a personal story of his that made him appreciate nurses, which my mom and I are! This life journey of his, made us feel that he knows the value of life and our family member would be in excellent hands.
Kareem was always available to answer all our questions. If you call him or text him, he will always respond right away or within a few hours. This was an extremely difficult time in our lives and Kareem was always there to ease our minds. When trying to find an attorney who is going to save your life or a close family members, you have to fully trust your lawyer and Kareem is that man. He strongly advocated for my family member and got him released from jail with a mental health diversion. This was the goal from the beginning and we could not be more thankful to Attorney Kareem for the outcome.
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Quick response even on the weekend. Atty Kareem seems like a great attorney however he was too busy for our small case. Thank you for your time. 
Yara V.
8/20/2023 - I contacted Mr. Ramadan about my son who has an Intellectual disability, he had been arrested in LA county for auto theft placed against him by his employer. My son... read more
Maurice C.
11/15/2022 - I was very fortunate to have had Kareem as my attorney. From our very first conversation, I could tell he was very knowledgeable and experienced. His empathy and care... read more
Anna D.
4/13/2022 - Mr. Ramadan is an amazing lawyer. I had a case that I wanted to get off of my record from a mistake I made in my youth and he was... read more
Melissa S.
5/17/2022 - I would highly recommend Mr. Ramadan to anyone in a similar situation. He was very helpful throughout the entire process, and the final outcome was very favorable. Erika D.
7/03/2023 - I was faced with a case that never in my life I'd imagine to be dealing with that could've had detrimental effects on my life and career ending. Kareem was... read more WaKas M.
9/14/2022 - Where do I even start with Kareem... I got into some trouble recently and needed some help as I do not know anything about laws and what my next steps... read more Cory R.
2/15/2023 - Mr. Kareem has been very cooperative and attentive. He's reliable and accommodating. I was in need of a lawyer and called many, however, most sent me to automated systems or... read more
Ashley C.
2/06/2023
KAREEM LAW APC – CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER
Attorney Kareem uses his training and experience as a former prosecutor to defend clients throughout Los Angeles and San Bernardino. If you are arrested or charged with a criminal offense, you need someone with experience to defend and protect your rights. Call Kareem.
