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Former Senior LA Prosecutor.
Harvard Law School Educated.
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Los Angeles DUI Plea Negotiations

Los Angeles DUI Attorney

When a driver is charged with a driving under the influence offense, the case begins at the defendant’s arraignment. While a defendant has a right to a speedy trial, if he or she is out of custody the defendant may decide to waive this speedy trial right in order to give his or her attorney time to obtain additional discovery evidence and explore possible defenses. There may be several pretrial hearings where the prosecution and defense exchanges discovery and see what can be done to resolve the case prior to trial. It is during these pretrial hearings that plea negotiations are conducted and the involvement of an experienced Los Angeles DUI Attorney can be critical.

At the defendant’s arraignment, the defense will be provided with the initial discovery packet, which is typically limited to the criminal complaint, police reports and a copy of the chemical test results. The defense is entitled to all relevant discovery evidence, which may include patrol vehicle video recordings, radio dispatch recordings, 911 calls and calibration and maintenance records for breath testing devices. The defense would request specific items from the prosecution, who would in turn obtain these items from the relevant law enforcement agency. This process can take a while and it is not unusual for a case to extend over several pretrial hearings while discovery issues are resolved.

The defense can also complete an independent investigation into the facts of the case. It may be necessary to obtain the services of an accident reconstruction expert where there was a collision involved or a toxicology expert where there is reason to challenge the chemical test results. The defense can gather additional evidence and expert analysis and present this material to the prosecution. In many cases, the prosecutor may consider this additional evidence and may make a better offer in hopes of resolving the case. In some cases, the prosecution may be willing to reduce the case to a wet reckless in violation of California Vehicle Code Section 23103/23103.5 VC or an exhibition of speed pursuant to California Vehicle Code Section 23109(c) VC.

Prosecutors do not necessarily want to be tied up in a trial that can last several days and may be willing to reduce charges or penalties in order to resolve a case. Judges also want to clear their calendar and often encourage parties to reach a resolution. The judge may be willing to undercut the prosecution’s offer if the defendant pleas open to the court. A skilled DUI attorney can effectively present evidence and information to the prosecutor or judge in order to obtain the best resolution possible.

In some cases, the prosecutor handling the case may be unwilling or unable to come down on an offer and it may be necessary to consult with senior management at the District Attorney or City Attorney’s Office. Having an experienced Los Angeles DUI Attorney who has worked with these supervising attorneys for years and has an excellent reputation can often be crucial in obtaining the best possible outcome in a plea negotiation. Prosecutors do not want to risk losing a case and may often be willing to consider a reduced sentence in order to resolve the case.

If you have been charged with a DUI offense, it is imperative that you meet with a Los Angeles DUI Lawyer as soon as possible. Attorney Michael Kraut is a former Deputy District Attorney with over 14 years of prosecutorial experience who understands how to put his clients in the best position possible when negotiating with prosecutors and defending a DUI case.

For more information about Los Angeles DUI plea negotiations, and to schedule your free consultation, contact Michael Kraut at the Kraut Criminal & DUI Lawyers located at 6255 Sunset Boulevard, Suite 1520, Los Angeles, CA 90028. Mr. Kraut can be reached 24/7 at 888-334-6344 or 323-464-6453.


Client Reviews
★★★★★
Michael Kraut is outstanding! He genuinely cared about my case and instructed my mom and I throughout the entire process. He was very clear on what he needed in order to receive the best results. He kept us updated until the end. I thank him so much for getting my charges rejected. I highly recommend him to anyone with legal needs! Shaquan
★★★★★
I contacted Michael with concern for my personal and business reputation. He was very reassuring and confident the entire time. After about 3 weeks it was determined that no charges were being filed by any agency and I was in the clear of any investigation. One thing that is amazing is just how FAST Michael is at replying to phone calls, texts, and even emails! We are talking under 30 minutes in most cases. That is unheard of for most attorneys! Michael is incredible and not your typical run of the mill attorney. For best results hire him if you feel like you might be under investigation or could face charges. Even if you know you are innocent it is best to take care of the smoke before it becomes a fire. Brad
★★★★★
Michael Kraut is-hands down-the best criminal defense attorney and I can't begin to thank him for all that he did for me and my family. I reached out to him in the middle of the night and less than a couple hours later, he had gotten back to me and scheduled a meeting. He's a no-nonsense attorney who knows how to get the job done! From the second we retained him, I had peace of mind in knowing that we were in the best hands possible. If Michael Kraut couldn't get it done, I knew that it couldn't be done at all. You can't put a price tag on your freedom. He was worth every single penny. Lida
★★★★★
Michael Kraut is an outstanding attorney. He was extremely professional, and straightforward, yet sensitive with my case. I am confident I made the right choice by hiring Michael. I highly recommend him to anyone seeking a truly experienced lawyer. Daniel
★★★★★
Michael Kraut - I cannot thank you enough for all that you did for ​my son. When I came to you I read that you used to be a district attorney but I never knew how much that meant until I watch you in court. I knew it took 3 months but the final day when I heard the judge say that all charges were dismissed it was all worth it! I will always be grateful for all that you did for us. A.N.
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