Ridgecrest DUI Defense Attorney
A DUI arrest can happen to anyone — one traffic stop can put your license, your finances, and even your freedom at risk. In California, driving under the influence is aggressively prosecuted, and the consequences of a conviction can follow you for years. If you have been arrested for DUI in Ridgecrest, acting quickly to protect your rights is critical.
At Humphrey & Thompson, Kyle J. Humphrey and Jared M. Thompson are recognized by the State Bar of California as Certified Criminal Law Specialists, and together they bring more than 50 years of experience and have handled over 5,000 cases. As a boutique firm, we give your case the personal attention it deserves — you work directly with proven advocates, not an unnamed associate.
To speak with a Ridgecrest DUI defense attorney today, call (661) 760-7678 for a confidential consultation.
California DUI Laws
California's DUI laws are among the strictest in the nation. Under Vehicle Code sections 23152(a) and 23152(b), it is illegal to drive while impaired by alcohol or drugs, and it is separately illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher for most drivers.
The legal limits are even lower for certain drivers:
- Commercial drivers face a limit of 0.04%.
- Drivers under 21 are subject to a zero-tolerance policy, meaning a BAC of 0.01% or higher can result in charges.
- Rideshare and taxi drivers carrying passengers face a 0.04% limit.
Importantly, you can be charged with DUI even if your BAC is below 0.08% if an officer believes your driving was impaired by alcohol, prescription medication, marijuana, or other drugs. California also has an implied consent law — by driving on state roads, you agree to submit to chemical testing after a lawful DUI arrest. Refusing a test can trigger an automatic license suspension and additional penalties.
A DUI arrest actually sets two separate cases in motion: a criminal case in court and an administrative case with the California DMV. You generally have only 10 days after your arrest to request a DMV hearing to protect your driving privileges — one of many reasons to contact an attorney immediately.
Common Types of DUI Charges & Penalties
The severity of penalties associated with a DUI conviction in California escalates based on your prior record and whether aggravating factors were present during the incident.
| Offense Type | Legal Classification | Potential Penalties |
|---|---|---|
| First-Offense DUI | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months in county jail, 3 to 9-month DUI school, driver's license suspension, IID requirement, fines exceeding $1,500. |
| Second DUI (within 10 years) | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year in county jail (mandatory minimums apply), 18 to 30-month DUI school, extended license suspension, mandatory IID. |
| Third DUI (within 10 years) | Misdemeanor | Mandatory minimum jail terms, multi-year license revocation, 30-month alcohol treatment program, designated habitual traffic offender. |
| Felony DUI (Injury/Death) | Felony (VC 23153) | 16 months to 4 years (or more) in state prison, formal probation/parole, heavy financial restitution, long-term license revocation. |
| Felony DUI (4th+ Offense) | Felony | State prison term, permanent criminal record, formal state oversight. |
Aggravating Enhancements: Penalties can increase significantly if your case involves driving at excessive speeds, having a BAC of 0.15% or higher, refusing a chemical test, or driving with a child under 14 in the vehicle (child endangerment).
criminal law specialists
Recognized by The State of California As Board Certified Criminal Defense Experts
At Humphrey & Thompson, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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- Felicia E.
He values his clients and understands their individual needs. He will work hard to guarantee that justice is served for everyone involved. He is honest and supportive throughout the entire process. We will never forget what Kyle has done for us.
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- Rob B.
He was straight forward, informative, and very easy to work with from inception to completion. I strongly suggest reaching out to Mr Thompson should you need the services offered by his office!
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- Aimee G.
The process was easy and they made it so that I didn't have to appear in court. I highly recommended them!
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- Jenna B.
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.
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- Aracele S.
I’d like to express my sincere gratitude to Kyle Humphrey at Humphrey & Thompson for his help with an unexpected case. He was highly thorough and made sure I understood every part of the process, which was especially important as this was my first and only legal matter. Many thanks to you and your team!
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- KC A.
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!
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- Tina H.
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.
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- Saijel P.
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.
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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
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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. -
Avoid Sex Offender Registration
Sex Offense
Juvenile Client Has Felony Sex Offense Case Dismissed and Is Not Required to Register
Why Choose Humphrey & Thompson
When your license and freedom are on the line, experience matters. Here is what sets our firm apart:
- Board-certified expertise. We are certified by the State Bar of California in criminal law — a distinction few attorneys hold.
- Proven track record. With 5,000+ cases handled, we have secured dismissals, acquittals, and reduced charges in courts across the region.
- Personalized attention. You work directly with experienced partners who know your case inside and out.
- Aggressive advocacy. We investigate thoroughly, challenge the evidence, and are always prepared to take a case to trial.
- Responsive communication. We keep you informed and respond promptly to your questions.
