Charges rejected
Felony domestic violence arrest. The prosecutor declined to file charges at the arraignment.
2022Home / DUI Lawyer · Van Nuys & Los Angeles
DUI lawyer for Van Nuys and Los Angeles.
Arrested for DUI in the San Fernando Valley or anywhere in Los Angeles County? You have two cases: one in criminal court and one with the DMV. You have only 10 days to protect your license.
Two cases start the day you are arrested
A California DUI arrest opens a criminal case in Los Angeles Superior Court and a separate administrative case with the DMV over your driving privilege. They run on different timelines, with different rules and different decision-makers. Winning one does not automatically win the other, so both need attention from the start.
The 10-day DMV deadline
You, or your lawyer, must request a DMV hearing within 10 days of the arrest. If no one requests it, the suspension takes effect automatically. Requesting the hearing preserves your right to challenge the stop, the test results and the paperwork, and it often keeps you driving while the case is pending.
If you were arrested in the last 10 days, call today: (310) 415-9499.
What we look at in every DUI case
- Whether the officer had a lawful reason to stop you.
- How field sobriety tests were given and recorded.
- Breath and blood testing: calibration, timing, handling and the chain of custody.
- Police reports, body-camera and dash-camera video.
- Prior record and any factors that could raise or lower the penalties.
Possible outcomes
Depending on the evidence, a DUI can be dismissed, reduced to a lesser charge such as reckless driving (a "wet reckless"), or resolved with terms that limit the impact on your license, job and record. First-offense cases are usually misdemeanors; injuries or prior convictions can make the case a felony. We explain the realistic range of outcomes for your facts at the first call.
Where we appear
From our Beverly Hills office we handle DUI cases throughout Los Angeles County, including the courts that serve Van Nuys and the San Fernando Valley, West Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Glendale and Inglewood.
Case results
Recent results.
Selected outcomes from the firm’s closed matters.
Dismissed
Firearm discharge case dismissed after the client completed diversion. No conviction.
2023Dismissed
Criminal case against a commercial property owner and its company over a cannabis tenant. Dismissed as to both.
2022Dismissed
Property owner charged with building-permit violations tied to a tenant's dispensary. Case dismissed.
2025Funds returned
Cash seized in a raid aimed at a neighbor was returned to the client, who was never charged.
2023Results depend on the facts of each case. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Client details are withheld for privacy.
Common questions
Questions clients ask first.
General information about California law, not legal advice for your situation.
Do I have to take the DMV hearing seriously if I plan to fight the criminal case?
Yes. The DMV hearing is the only way to challenge the automatic suspension, and the testimony and documents from it can help the criminal case. It must be requested within 10 days of the arrest.
Will I lose my license after a first DUI?
Not necessarily right away. A timely DMV hearing request keeps the suspension from taking effect automatically, and many drivers qualify for restricted driving with an ignition interlock device. The details depend on your record and test results.
Is a DUI a felony in California?
Most first and second DUIs are misdemeanors. A DUI can be charged as a felony when someone is injured or when there are multiple prior DUI convictions within the look-back period.
Client reviews
5.0 stars on Google from 46 clients.
Very grateful to Mr. Manavi for representing me against a insurance company that was trying to deny me equitable payment in the repair of my childhood home after a negligent plumber. Mr. Manavi advocated fiercely, expertly, and strategically to secure a favorable outcome.
Saman had great attention to detail when it came to my case. … Not only was he accurate in the timeline I provided for my case but he was very clear in communicating his strategy and made me feel very comfortable with my case.
He was always available when I needed him and kept me informed throughout the entire process. He explained things clearly, but was also very understanding and easy to talk to, which made a stressful situation feel a lot more manageable.
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Contact
Get answers in one phone call.
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Email
saman@manavilaw.com
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