Gassia Apkarian, Esq. 918 E Santa Ana Blvd Santa Ana Santa Ana California North USA Phone: 877-339-3946 Fax: 714-550-8003 Email: a2z.crimdef@yahoo.com Website: http://www.a2zdefense.com

Frequently Asked Questions and Helpful Information

Is DUI A Serious Offense?

The short answer is “yes” even if you have never suffered a prior DUI conviction. DUI’s are very costly because there are programs that you must attend, fees and fines that must be paid to the courts and the DMV if you plan on ever driving again. A California DUI case may be charged as a misdemeanor or as a felony. It may be charged as a felony where someone is injured (usually when an accident is involved), or where the accused has three or more prior DUI convictions (or convictions that count as a prior DUI, such as a "wet reckless"). These convictions must have happened within ten years of the new charge to count against the accused as a prior conviction. It is important to point out that the law governing DUI arrests is different for those under 21 years of age (Please See section on DUI under 21).

Should you hire an attorney or go with the public defender?

Misconception: All lawyers are the same. At least a public defender is free. This is a fallacy. Reality: I often say, “Don’t you wish you could interview doctors for free before you decide who to go to as your physician or specialist?” Well, that’s the difference between hiring a public defender and hiring your own lawyer. You should look for lawyers who will give you a free initial consultation so you can meet with them and get a feel for who they are and how they work. And once you’ve talked to a few and met with them, you can choose who you feel will be able to do the best job for you. When you go with the public defender, it is a draw of the luck. You might get a great public defender or one that is just not responsive, knowledgeable or as aggressive as this job often requires.

Why hire Apkarian & Zalewski, APC for your DUI or drug related case?

Because we have been doing this for a long time (almost 30 years).

Because we have an excellent reputation for being competent and fighters for our clients and we will uphold that reputation.

Because DUI’s can be life changing incidents in our clients’ lives and we understand how it can impact you and your family both emotionally and financially.

Because we will be honest and forthcoming with our clients while keeping them abreast of all developments. Because we care about the work we do and we take pride in it.

Because we will treat our clients with the utmost respect and full confidentiality.

Because we treat our clients individually and no two cases are alike.