San Diego Military DUI Attorneys

Facing a DUI as an active duty service member stationed in San Diego is like walking a tightrope. One misstep can land you on two fronts: civilian courts with their punitive measures and the military system with its potential career-altering consequences. Understanding the unique situation and taking decisive action is paramount.

Unfortunately, there is no “double jeopardy” that prevents you from being punished by both the military and civilian courts. If you are in the military and get a DUI, you will likely face punishment and penalties by your command as well as by civilian courts.

Even if you get a DUI on a military installation, it is more likely than not that your case will be tried in a civilian court and your command will take administrative disciplinary action against you.

A DUI can be a double whammy, hitting you with civilian court penalties and potentially derailing your military career. Here’s a quick look at the potential consequences on both fronts:

Civilian Court:

• Financial Strain:
  Fines can be hefty, and you might face court costs on top of that. There’s also the potential for lost wages if jail time is involved.
• Driving Privileges Suspended:
  A DUI typically results in a suspended driver’s license, making it difficult to get around and potentially impacting job opportunities outside the military.
• Mandatory Programs:
  Alcohol education and treatment programs are often court-ordered, adding extra time and financial burden.
• Stigma: 
  A DUI in California carries an uncomfortable stigma, especially if you’re convicted.

Military Repercussions:

• Career Limitations:
  A DUI conviction can restrict future deployments, assignments, and promotions. Leaders with DUIs raise red flags about judgment and reliability.
• Loss of Security Clearances:
  DUIs can lead to security clearance revocation, jeopardizing your ability to serve in certain roles.
• Discharge (Honorable or Dishonorable):
  Depending on the severity and your command’s discretion, a DUI could result in discharge. This can have long-lasting consequences for future employment and veteran benefits.

The penalties for active duty service members vary depending on how the service member’s command decides to prosecute the DUI.  Usually, a command will only decide to prosecute a DUI at a court-martial if the DUI occurred on a military installation.  In addition to a potential court-martial conviction, service members also face a number of adverse administrative penalties.

Call us Today at (760) 536-9038 or complete the below form for a free, no obligation initial consultation.

Facing a DUI on Camp Pendleton? Gary Barthel saved my career.

“Fellow Marine recommended Mr. Barthel for my alleged DUI. Not only did he clear my name with both my command and the court, but his calm guidance kept me sane through the whole ordeal. Now, my career’s back on track. If you’re facing military legal trouble, don’t hesitate – call Gary Barthel.”
Charles, S.F.

A DUI conviction can be a career killer. Even administrative punishments can affect deployments, assignments, and promotions. The stigma associated with a DUI can cast a long shadow on your military service.

Don’t let a single mistake jeopardize your entire military career and future. The Military Law Center can help.

Navigating the complex legal landscape of a military DUI requires an expert guide. A seasoned Military DUI attorney will:

• Understand the intricacies of both civilian and military law.
• Develop a strategic defense tailored to your unique circumstances.
• Fight to minimize criminal penalties and negotiate plea bargains.
• Represent you in court hearings and potential court-martials.
• Advise you on administrative actions and mitigation strategies.
• Protect your military career and minimize the long-term impact of the DUI.

Here’s what sets the Military Law Center apart:

• Focus on Military DUI cases:
  We specialize in handling DUIs for active duty personnel, ensuring your case receives the focused attention it deserves.
• Veteran-led team:
  Our team understands the military culture and can relate to your experiences, providing empathetic and effective guidance.
• Aggressive Defense Strategies:
  We’ll challenge every aspect of the prosecution’s case, working to get charges dismissed or reduced.
• Experience with Courts-Martial:
  If facing military court, our military law expertise ensures your rights are protected throughout the proceedings.
• Clear Communication and Support:
  We keep you informed every step of the way and provide emotional support during this challenging time.

Saved my career, saved my reputation.

“Gary Barthel is the ultimate Marine’s lawyer. DUI charge? Not guilty. Base driving privileges? Restored. Promotion to Sergeant? Secured. Trust Gary to protect your future.”
Sergeant Chapman, USMC

Don’t let a DUI derail your military career and future.

Contact the Military Law Center today for a free consultation. We’re here to fight for you and safeguard your rights, both in civilian court and the military system.

Remember:

• You have the right to remain silent.
• You have the right to an attorney.
• Don’t make any statements or decisions without legal counsel.

Military Law Center Is Ready to Help You – Right Now.

Call us Today – (760) 536-9038

Taking action now can make a world of difference. Don’t delay, your future depends on it. Contact the Military Law Center today.

Frequently Asked Questions about Military DUIs: