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DUI Defense

Corona DUI Lawyer - Evan C. Vargas

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Known as The Circle City for its ring of highways, Corona sees heavy DUI enforcement, particularly near the 91/71 interchange, Historic Downtown, and the Dos Lagos shopping center. Whether you’re a daily commuter heading to Orange County or a resident, a DUI charge in Corona demands immediate action. 

DUI attorney Evans Vargas tailors his strategy to the circumstances of your case through a street-level understanding of Corona’s unique traffic patterns. He has built a reputation for winning the toughest criminal cases by identifying the technical and constitutional flaws that others miss. While many focus on paperwork, Liberty works to dismantle the criminal prosecution, preventing local arrests becoming a permanent conviction.

Defend Your DUI with a Local Corona DUI Lawyer

Why Choose Liberty and DUI Lawyer Evan Vargas?

20+ Years of Proven Results 

Evan Vargas has been defending the rights of drivers for over two decades. His extensive experience means he knows every trick in the prosecutor’s book. He has successfully defended thousands of cases, securing dismissals and reductions for clients who thought they had no hope. When you hire Liberty, you hire a legacy of winning.

Commuter & Local Defense Specialist 

We understand the specific needs of the Corona community and Riverside County. Many of our clients are commuters with jobs in LA or OC. Preserving your ability to drive is the #1 priority. We tailor our defense strategies to protect your license, focusing on the DMV hearing and the court case.

Proven Tactics for Corona Cases 

We use specific strategies for Corona arrests, such as challenging the accuracy of Portable Breath Testers (PBTs) used at the roadside. We also employ the “Rising BAC” defense, proving that your blood alcohol was rising and you were actually under the limit at the time of driving, even if you tested over the limit later at the station.

Understanding Your Corona DUI Charges

VC 23152(a) & (b): Standard DUI 

Corona enforces the 0.08% BAC limit strictly. However, we investigate the timeline of your drinking and driving. Alcohol takes time to absorb. If you had your last drink shortly before driving, your BAC might have been low while driving and only peaked later at the station. This is a scientific defense we use to fight the charges.

VC 23152(f): Drug DUI 

Corona PD is increasingly arresting drivers for drug DUIs, including marijuana and prescription medications. These cases are difficult for the DA to prove because there is no set legal limit. We challenge the officer’s observations and the blood test results to show there is insufficient evidence of impairment.

Enhancements

Penalties escalate if you have a high BAC (>0.15%), refused a test, or were speeding recklessly (VC 23582). We fight to have these enhancements stricken from the complaint to reduce your potential punishment.

Local Court Information

While Corona has a courthouse, most criminal DUI matters are heard at the central court in Riverside: Riverside Hall of Justice 4100 Main Street Riverside, CA 92501.

  • The Corona Courthouse at 505 S. Buena Vista Ave.handles Traffic Infractions (speeding tickets, red lights) and Small Claims. It does not hear criminal DUI matters.
  • The Riverside Hall of Justice at 4100 Main Street, Riverside, CA 92501 handles all criminal misdemeanors and felonies for the “Western Region” which includes Corona.

Paying Fines and Fees in Corona 

If you are eventually ordered to pay fines or fees, the Riverside Superior Court’s Payment Processing Center is actually located inside the Corona Courthouse. There is a drop box at the Corona courthouse that accepts documents/payments until 4:00 PM. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Corona DUI Cases

Is my court date in Corona or Riverside? 

Check your citation carefully. Most DUI arraignments for Corona arrests are held at the Hall of Justice in downtown Riverside, not the Corona branch court. We verify all court dates for our clients to ensure that you arrive on time and ready to win your case. 

Can I get a restricted license to drive to work? 

Yes. If your license is suspended, you can typically get a restricted license immediately by installing an Ignition Interlock Device (IID). We assist with the paperwork to get you back on the 91 Freeway legally.

What is a “Wet Reckless”? 

A “Wet Reckless” is a reduced charge (reckless driving involving alcohol). It counts as a prior DUI but carries lower fines, no mandatory license suspension from the court, and usually no jail time. It is a common goal in our negotiations.

Where is the jail for Corona arrests? 

Corona arrests are typically booked at the Robert Presley Detention Center in downtown Riverside.

How much does a DUI lawyer cost? 

Fees vary based on the complexity of the case (e.g., priors, accidents). We offer free consultations and transparent pricing so you know exactly what to expect.

Can I represent myself? 

You can, but it is risky. DUI law is highly technical, involving chemistry and biology. Prosecutors will likely secure a conviction if you do not have a professional defense to challenge their evidence.

Will I lose my job? 

It depends on your employer. However, a DUI is a public record. We work to get charges dismissed or reduced to minimize the impact on background checks.

What if the officer didn’t read me my rights? 

Miranda rights only apply to custodial interrogation. If they didn’t read them, we may be able to suppress incriminating statements you made after being arrested, which can weaken the prosecution’s case.

Do I have to put an IID in my work truck?

There is an employer exemption for IIDs in some cases. If you drive a company vehicle, you may be allowed to drive it without an IID if you notify your employer. We can guide you in applying for this exemption.

What happens at the DMV hearing? 

The hearing officer reviews the police report to determine if the stop was lawful and if you blew over the 0.08% limit. We evaluate the documents and argue legal technicalities to try to set aside the suspension.