Practice Area

DUI & Vehicular Homicide Defense

Aggressive Defense Against Serious DUI Charges

DUI charges in California range from misdemeanors to serious felonies that can result in years of state prison time. When a DUI results in injury or death, the stakes become even higher. Vehicular manslaughter and vehicular homicide charges can devastate your life and your family.

John D. Forsyth has over 30 years of experience defending clients against all types of DUI charges, from first-time offenses to the most serious felony vehicular homicide cases. His thorough approach to investigation and aggressive defense strategy has helped countless clients achieve favorable outcomes.

Areas of Defense

DUI Charges We Defend

Standard DUI

Defense against misdemeanor DUI charges for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Potential Penalty: Up to 6 months jail, fines, license suspension

Felony DUI

Defense when DUI results in injury to others or when you have prior DUI convictions.

Potential Penalty: 16 months to 4 years state prison

Vehicular Manslaughter

Defense against charges when a DUI results in the death of another person.

Potential Penalty: Up to 10 years state prison

Vehicular Homicide

Defense against the most serious DUI-related charges involving gross negligence.

Potential Penalty: 15 years to life in state prison

DUI with Child Endangerment

Defense when a child under 14 was in the vehicle during a DUI arrest.

Potential Penalty: Enhanced penalties including additional jail time

Multiple DUI Offenses

Defense for second, third, or subsequent DUI offenses with escalating penalties.

Potential Penalty: Mandatory jail time, longer license suspension

How We Defend You

DUI Defense Strategies

Challenging the Traffic Stop

Police must have reasonable suspicion to pull you over. If the stop was unlawful, evidence may be suppressed.

Questioning Field Sobriety Tests

Field sobriety tests are subjective and can be affected by medical conditions, fatigue, nervousness, or road conditions.

Challenging Breathalyzer Results

Breathalyzer devices require proper calibration and maintenance. Improper procedures can lead to inaccurate results.

Blood Test Procedures

Blood samples must be properly collected, stored, and analyzed. Chain of custody issues can invalidate results.

Rising Blood Alcohol Defense

Your BAC may have been below the legal limit while driving but rose by the time testing occurred.

Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions can affect BAC readings or mimic signs of intoxication.

What's At Stake

Consequences of a DUI Conviction

Criminal Penalties

  • Jail or prison time
  • Substantial fines and fees
  • Probation requirements
  • Mandatory DUI school
  • Community service
  • Ignition interlock device

Life Consequences

  • Driver's license suspension
  • Increased insurance rates
  • Employment difficulties
  • Professional license issues
  • Immigration consequences
  • Permanent criminal record

Time is critical. You have only 10 days to request a DMV hearing to save your license.

Take Action Now

Arrested for DUI?

Time is critical after a DUI arrest. Contact John D. Forsyth immediately for experienced defense and to protect your driving privileges.

Call (415) 812-3257Request Free Consultation

Consultation Fee Policy

  • •There is no charge for the first consultation if conducted at the office.
  • •Any consultation conducted off-site or at a detention facility requires a fee paid up front.
  • •If the client decides to retain the office, 100% of the consultation fee will be applied to the initial retainer for services.