People often ask us if there’s a difference between driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while impaired (DWI). These terms mean basically the same thing. In California, we use the DUI designation. However, other states may use DWI or even DUII (driving under the influence of intoxicants), DWAI (driving while ability impaired), OWI (operating […]

Yes, under many circumstances, DUI cases can be dismissed if you have aggressive advocacy from an experienced attorney. At Lamano Law Office, we have a long track record of getting DUI cases dismissed and charges reduced for clients throughout Oakland and the Bay area.

You may be charged with felony DUI if: You have at least three DUI or wet reckless convictions in the past three years. You have had a felony DUI conviction in the past. You were involved in an accident that caused great bodily injury or death. DUI Defense and Info

In California, it is illegal to drive with a BAC of 0.08 or more. Commercial drivers face even stricter standards and may be charged with DUI if their BAC is 0.04 or higher. For those younger than 21, California has two laws governing drunk driving. People under 21 may face DUI charges under Vehicle Code […]

No matter what you intend to plead, please do not ever do so without an attorney present. You could still be penalized in court for things you don’t know about, but that an experienced criminal defense lawyer can help you avoid. Call the Lamano Law Office for help. 

Probation can be used as an actual criminal sentence handed down by the judge, but parole is something that can happen after a convicted individual has been in prison for a period of time.

Yes – you should never advocate for yourself. You just aren’t going to know the law like your attorney will, and you have emotion working against you. Always work through an attorney. 

When the prosecution and the defense try to negotiate a deal between them on a case, this is known as a plea bargain. At times, taking this deal could be your best option – your criminal law attorney will advise you.

They look at the evidence at hand and determine if it has sufficient quantity and quality to pursue a conviction. If they cannot obtain enough evidence of good caliber that would lead to a conviction, they probably won’t pursue that case at all, and charges are dropped.