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DUI

DUI Lawyers in Bakersfield, CA

Fighting Drunk Driving Arrests in Kern County for 50+ Years

If you are arrested anywhere in Kern County with the charge of driving under the influence, you should immediately contact a Bakersfield DUI defense attorney at Humphrey & Thompson. It is not uncommon for us to get these charges dismissed completely, thus protecting your record.

Acting with urgency is important in any criminal defense case and it is especially true with a DUI or if you have multiple DUI convictions. A DUI is not just a traffic ticket; it is a much more serious charge and you should take action to fight back. For many people first charged with a DUI, entering the criminal justice system can be a frightening and confusing experience.

You need someone on your side guiding you through it, avoiding the traps and landmines that, unfortunately, do exist. We have worked both sides of the court system and we know how to help you. Our Bakersfield DUI attorney has the skills and experience to represent you in court.

Arrested for driving under the influence? Contact our Bakersfield DUI attorney at Humphrey & Thompson at to start discussing your options.

Understanding DUI Charges in California

Most people thing of drunk driving when they hear "DUI." Driving under the influence is, however, driving with an impaired ability to safely operate your vehicle due to:

  • Alcohol intoxication
  • Illegal drug use
  • Prescribed medications such as pain killers
  • Or even over-the-counter drugs, such as allergy medications
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  • Charges Reduced/Dismissed

    Misdemeanor Sex Crime with Mandatory Sex Registration

    Settled for no registration and time served after 5 days of trial ending in a mistrial.
  • Charges Reduced/Dismissed

    Felony Sex Crime

    Client was charged with a felony sex crime . His charges were reduced to a misdeanor. He received no sex offender registration and community service instead of jail.
  • Case Dismissal

    Sexual Abuse

    Allegation of Continuous Sexual Abuse Dismissed Before Trial.
  • Case Dismissal

    Felony Sex Case

    Felony Sex Case based on Undercover Decoy Sting Dismissed Entirely.
  • Case Dismissal

    Rape

    Rape Case Dismissed Based on Defense Investigation and Medical Evaluation Before Trial.
  • Case Dismissal

    Sexual Battery

    Local business owner charged with sexual battery, dismissed.
  • Jury Trial Acquittals

    Molestation and Sexual Abuse of Minors

    Mr. Thompson Secures Complete Dismissal of all Charges at Jury Trial for Accusations of Molestation and Sexual Abuse of Minors

  • Avoid Sex Offender Registration

    Sex Offense

    Juvenile Client Has Felony Sex Offense Case Dismissed and Is Not Required to Register

California’s Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limit

The laws concerning this have established DUI standards, such as blood-alcohol concentration, or BAC. In California, the BAC is .08% or above. There are other tests that police can conduct.

While you must give your consent to be tested, California has an "implied consent" law which means when you get a driver's license, it assumes your agreement for testing if the officer stopping you has reasonable suspicion.

Therefore, if you do not consent to be tested, the penalties can often be much harsher than if you had taken the test and failed it. An attorney can ensure your rights are protected when it comes to breath & blood tests.

  • True Trial Attorneys
  • Responsive & Prompt Communication
  • Impressive Track Record in State, & Federal Courts
  • Client-Service Focused
  • Certified Criminal Law Specialists
    “Kyle is very professional but at the same time feels like your talking to a long time friend.”

    Kyle and his team are absolutely amazing! With my whole case they kept it completely stress free. Kyle will explain everything in a way you could actually understand. I highly recommend him. He's honest, fair and compassionate and fantastic to work with.

    - Saijel P.
    “Humphrey and Thompson are exceptional in criminal defense cases.”

    They were very straightforward about the possible outcomes and always seemed to be one step ahead in planning our defense strategy. The paralegal staff was also courteous and prompt in their responses, which made the whole stressful process much more bearable. I am profoundly grateful for their services. the Martinez Lugo family we loved them we really recommended thanks so much :)

    - Cesar M.
    “I’m thankful and appreciative of them for fighting for my son!!”

    IF you are caught in a bad situation in life and are looking for a Lawyer and investigator to fight, do their job well in fighting to prove your innocence in your case, you need Kyle and Victor on your side!!!

    - Rena B.
    “I truly believe Kyle Humphrey made all the difference in the outcome of this case and my son's record is clean.”

    My son was wrongfully accused and charged with assault. I hired Mr. Humphrey to represent him because I heard he was the best and as my son is 19 years old, I did not want this bogus charge going on his record. Mr. Humphrey did an excellent job of representing my son from day one. I am happy to say that the charges were dropped and the case was dismissed. I HIGHLY recommend Kyle J. Humphrey.

    - Tina H.
    “Kyle took the time to listen to me and my wife about our situation and provide valuable feedback.”

    I had an amazing experience with Kyle! He is a straight shooter and that was crucial for me to hear. I was able to keep all my rights, get my case dismissed and that was huge for me! Kyle was able to take a bad situation for our family and deliver results that allowed us to move forward and grow. I highly recommend Kyle and his team!

    - KC A.
    “A very professional, friendly, and caring office!”

    Due to the distance away from the Bakersfield area I was able to deal with the firm by phone and email. Phone service was very timely and they made me feel comfortable. If needed, I would use their services again and recommend this law office.

    - Randy K.
    “As soon as we hired this law firm everything changed.”
    Needed a lawyer for our juvenile son for a felony assault case. Public defender was not very helpful and told us that at best our son would be on a very intensive probation for years if not sentenced to a camp. Rob Singh took our case and basically got everything resolved outside of court with the prosecutor within 2 weeks. Alleviated a lot of stress and anxiety by getting our son on a very minimal probation for 6 months and then records completely sealed. Highly recommended and would definitely hire this firm again.
    - Erik S.
    “Mr. Thompson and his team worked relentlessly to get my husband's case dismissed.”

    My husband hired Jared Thompson to defend him against bogus charges. Their price was affordable and well worth the work they put in. Even though the DA's office was not helpful and kept delaying the case over and over, Mr. Thompson and his team never gave up. It was finally dismissed and we couldn't be more happy with the outcome.

    - Jenna B.
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California’s Implied Consent Law

The state of California has what is called "implied consent" when issuing driver's licenses. This means it is implied that when you are issued a license which gives you the privilege of driving on California's roads and highways, you will agree to be tested if an officer suspects you are under the influence while driving. Therefore, refusing to take the tests can result in your driver's license being suspended or revoked.

As a matter of fact, the driver's license penalties can be more severe if you refuse the tests than if you took the test and failed. Whatever your circumstances, if you have been charged with a DUI, Humphrey & Thompson stand ready to fight for you and help you reach the best possible result.

There are many factors involved in a DUI, whether it is a first-time charge, and even more if you have been previously convicted. You have the right to have someone on your side, looking out for your interests.

Charged with a DUI? Contact an experienced Bakersfield DUI lawyer today to schedule your initial case evaluation.

Have Questions?

  • What should I do immediately after being arrested for a DUI in Bakersfield?
    If you're arrested for a DUI in Bakersfield, it’s important to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement. You should exercise your right to remain silent and avoid answering questions until you've spoken with a DUI lawyer. Contact an experienced DUI attorney as soon as possible to review your case and protect your rights.
  • Can I refuse a breathalyzer or field sobriety test in Bakersfield?
    In California, you have the right to refuse a field sobriety test without immediate legal consequences. However, refusing a breathalyzer test after being lawfully arrested can result in automatic penalties, such as a license suspension and other legal repercussions. Consulting with a DUI lawyer can help you understand your rights and how to handle these situations.
  • Will a DUI conviction affect my ability to drive in Bakersfield?
    Yes, a DUI conviction can result in a suspended or revoked driver's license in Bakersfield. The duration of the suspension depends on the specifics of your case, including whether it’s a first-time offense or a repeat offense. A DUI lawyer can assist you in navigating the DMV hearing process and potentially help you regain driving privileges through a restricted license or other options.
  • What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony DUI in Bakersfield?
    In Bakersfield, a DUI is typically charged as a misdemeanor for first-time offenders or cases without aggravating factors. However, a DUI can be elevated to a felony if you have prior DUI convictions, caused serious injury or death, or had a very high BAC level. A DUI lawyer can explain the differences and defend you against more serious charges, working to protect your future.
  • What penalties could I face for a DUI in Bakersfield?

    Penalties for a DUI in Bakersfield can include hefty fines, mandatory DUI education classes, license suspension, and possibly jail time. The severity of the penalties depends on factors like prior offenses, blood alcohol content (BAC), and whether anyone was injured.

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