Murrieta DUI & Traffic Offenses Attorney

DUI & Traffic Offenses

Free Consultation — (951) 400-4357

Being charged with a DUI in California is a serious matter that can result in jail time, heavy fines, license suspension, and a permanent criminal record. At the Law Office of Nic Cocis, we understand the science behind DUI testing and the legal procedures that must be followed during a DUI arrest.

Attorney Nic Cocis has defended thousands of DUI cases at the Southwest Justice Center and throughout Riverside County. He understands how field sobriety tests work, the limitations of breathalyzer and blood testing equipment, and the procedural requirements that law enforcement must follow during a DUI stop.

California Vehicle Code Section 23152 makes it illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. A first-offense DUI is typically charged as a misdemeanor, but penalties increase significantly for repeat offenses, high BAC levels, accidents involving injury, and DUI with a minor in the vehicle.

Our defense strategies include challenging the legality of the traffic stop, questioning the accuracy of chemical testing, examining officer conduct during field sobriety tests, and negotiating with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options.

If you have been arrested for DUI in Murrieta, Temecula, Menifee, or anywhere in Southwest Riverside County, contact our office immediately. You have only 10 days from the date of arrest to request a DMV hearing to protect your driving privileges.

Frequently Asked Questions About DUI & Traffic Offenses

Common questions from clients facing dui & traffic offenses charges at the Southwest Justice Center in Murrieta, CA.

A first-time DUI in California (Vehicle Code 23152) is typically charged as a misdemeanor. Penalties can include 3 to 5 years of informal probation, fines up to $2,000 (plus penalty assessments), a 6-month driver's license suspension, a 3-month DUI school program, and up to 6 months in county jail. However, an experienced DUI defense attorney can often negotiate reduced charges or alternative sentencing. Contact the Law Office of Nic Cocis at (951) 400-4357 for a free consultation about your DUI case at the Southwest Justice Center.

You have only 10 days from the date of your DUI arrest to request an Administrative Per Se (APS) hearing with the California DMV. If you fail to request this hearing within 10 days, your driver's license will be automatically suspended 30 days after your arrest. Attorney Nic Cocis can request this hearing on your behalf and represent you at the DMV hearing to fight for your driving privileges.

Yes. Depending on the circumstances of your case, a DUI charge can potentially be reduced to a lesser offense such as 'wet reckless' (Vehicle Code 23103.5) or even dismissed entirely. Common grounds for reduction or dismissal include improper traffic stop procedures, inaccurate breathalyzer or blood test results, failure to follow Title 17 testing protocols, and violations of your constitutional rights. Attorney Cocis has defended thousands of DUI cases at the SWJC and understands the strategies that work in these courtrooms.

No. You should never plead guilty at your arraignment without first consulting with a criminal defense attorney. At the arraignment, Attorney Cocis will typically advise entering a not guilty plea. This preserves all of your rights and gives your defense team time to review the prosecution's evidence, including police reports, body camera footage, and chemical test results. Many DUI cases have weaknesses that only become apparent after a thorough review of the evidence.

The cost of a DUI defense attorney varies depending on the complexity of the case, whether it is a first offense or repeat offense, and whether the charge involves injury or aggravating factors. The Law Office of Nic Cocis offers free initial consultations and competitive flat-fee arrangements for DUI defense. Call (951) 400-4357 to discuss your case and learn about your options.

Southwest Justice Center courthouse in Murrieta, California

Your Case Belongs at the Southwest Justice Center.

Your Defense Belongs Here.

If you were arrested in Temecula, Murrieta, Menifee, Wildomar, Lake Elsinore, Winchester, or French Valley, your future will likely be decided at the Southwest Justice Center (SWJC) on Auld Road. In these courtrooms, local knowledge is the ultimate advantage. Since 1999, Nic Cocis has been a weekly fixture in the SWJC, appearing before the same judges and negotiating with the same Riverside County prosecutors for over 25+ years. We don't just know the law; we know the specific nuances, procedural quirks, and judicial tendencies of the Southwest District. Whether you are facing a felony or a misdemeanor, you need a firm that treats the Southwest Justice Center as its home turf.

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Southwest Riverside County Defense

Why Local Representation Matters for DUI & Traffic Offenses Cases

When you are charged with dui & traffic offenses in Southwest Riverside County, the outcome often depends on who knows the courtroom best. The Southwest Justice Center in Murrieta handles the vast majority of criminal cases from Murrieta, Temecula, Wildomar, Menifee, and Lake Elsinore. Nic Cocis has practiced exclusively in this district since 1999, appearing before the same bench week after week. That consistent local presence means he understands how cases like yours are prosecuted — and how to defend them effectively.

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Facing DUI & Traffic Offenses Charges?

If you or a loved one has been charged, time is critical. Contact Attorney Nic Cocis today for a free case evaluation.

(951) 400-4357

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