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DUI Defense Defending Your Rights & Protecting Your Freedom

DUI Attorney in West Jordan

Arrested For DUI In The West Jordan Area? Call Our Team

A DUI stop can turn into an arrest very quickly, and by the time you are released you may already have a court date and paperwork about your driver’s license. If you are facing a drunk driving charge connected to the West Jordan area, you do not have to sort this out alone. 

Melton Law is a criminal defense firm based in Taylorsville that helps people in the Salt Lake City region through DUI and drunk driving cases.

We understand that you may be embarrassed, worried about your job, and unsure what this means for your record. Our role is to step in, explain what is happening in clear language, and start protecting your rights as soon as we are involved. 

We focus on criminal defense and traffic related matters, so we are familiar with how these cases play out in this part of Salt Lake County.

Facing DUI charges can feel like the end of the road, but with the right DUI defense attorney in West Jordan, it doesn't have to be. Contact Melton Law today at (801) 781-5803 or online for your free consultation.

Understanding DUI Laws in UT

Utah is known for having some of the strictest DUI laws in the nation. Under Utah Code § 41-6a-502, it is illegal to operate or be in "actual physical control" of a vehicle if you are under the influence of alcohol, any drug, or a combination of both to a degree that renders you incapable of safely operating a vehicle.

Key legal thresholds in Utah include:

  • The 0.05% BAC Limit: Utah has the lowest per se blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in the United States. If your BAC is 0.05% or higher, the state does not need to prove you were actually impaired to convict you.
  • Actual Physical Control: You can be charged with a DUI even if the vehicle isn't moving. If you are in the driver's seat with the keys available, the law considers you in control of the vehicle.
  • Impaired Driving: Even if your BAC is below 0.05%, you can still be charged if an officer observes signs of impairment, such as weaving, slurred speech, or failing field sobriety tests.
  • DUI Metabolite: Under Utah Code § 41-6a-517, it is illegal to drive with any measurable amount of a controlled substance or its metabolite in your system, even if you do not appear impaired at the time of the stop.

As your West Jordan DUI defense lawyer, we investigate every detail of these statutes to see if the responding officers followed proper legal procedures during your stop and arrest.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of DUI Convictions in UT

The penalties for a DUI in Utah are mandatory and escalate quickly based on your prior record and the specific circumstances of your arrest.

Criminal Penalties

  • First Offense (Class B Misdemeanor): Minimum 48 hours in jail or 48 hours of compensatory service, a minimum fine of approximately $1,310 (including surcharges), and a 120-day license suspension.
  • Second Offense within 10 years (Class B Misdemeanor): Minimum 10 days in jail (or 5 days jail plus 30 days electronic home monitoring), higher fines, and a 2-year license revocation.
  • Third Offense within 10 years (Third-Degree Felony): Minimum 62.5 days in jail (often served in prison), fines up to $5,000, and a 2-year license revocation.

Collateral Consequences

A West Jordan DUI defense lawyer will tell you that the "hidden" costs are often the most damaging. These include:

  • Ignition Interlock Device (IID): Mandatory installation of a breathalyzer in your car for 18 months to 3 years.
  • Alcohol Restricted Driver (ARD) Status: You may be legally prohibited from driving with any measurable amount of alcohol in your system for several years.
  • Interdicted Person Designation: Under new 2026 laws (HB 437), some DUI offenders may be designated as "interdicted persons," making it illegal for them to purchase alcohol.
  • SR-22 Insurance: You will likely be required to carry high-risk insurance, which significantly increases your monthly premiums.

Our Comprehensive Approach to DUI Defense

At Melton Law, we don't just accept the results of a breathalyzer or blood test as absolute truth. Our defense strategy involves a deep dive into the technical and procedural aspects of your arrest:

  • Challenging Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs): These tests are highly subjective. Factors like uneven pavement, poor lighting, footwear, or medical conditions can cause a person to "fail" even when sober.
  • Testing Accuracy: We verify if the Intoxilyzer 8000 (the machine used for breath tests) was properly calibrated and if the officer followed the mandatory 15-minute observation period.
  • Blood Draw Violations: For blood tests, we ensure the sample was drawn by a qualified professional and that the "chain of custody" was never broken.
  • Negotiating for Reduced Charges: We leverage our local knowledge of the West Jordan Justice Court to negotiate for "Plea in Abeyance" or "Impaired Driving" reductions when a full dismissal isn't possible.

Looking Beyond The Police Report

Each DUI case starts with a real person and a specific story, not just a police report. When we take on a drunk driving case, we begin by listening carefully to your account of the stop, the tests, and everything that happened afterward. We then compare that with the officer’s reports and any available video or chemical test records to see where they line up and where they do not.

We look closely at the reason for the traffic stop, the way field sobriety tests were given, and how breath or blood samples were collected and handled. Problems in any of these areas can affect what evidence the prosecution can rely on. We also pay attention to timelines and paperwork because errors in procedure can have real consequences for how a case should proceed.

Focusing On Your Life & Long-Term Impact

At the same time, we pay attention to your life outside the courtroom. A DUI charge can threaten a commercial driver’s job, a medical or professional license, or a person’s immigration status. We keep these issues in mind when advising you about options and potential outcomes.

Our approach is to build a strategic advantage as early as possible, particularly when it comes to time sensitive steps, such as deadlines related to driver’s license actions. Throughout the process, we work to keep you informed and involved. 

We explain what is happening before each major decision so you are not left in the dark about your own case. Our team takes pride in being serious students of criminal law, including Utah DUI developments, and we bring that mindset to every defense we prepare.

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What Sets Us Apart From The Rest?

Melton Law is here to help you get the results you need with a team you can trust.

  • Free Consultations Available
    We believe everyone deserves access to legal advice without upfront costs, which is why we offer free consultations to help you understand your options.
  • Experienced Representation
    With extensive experience in DUI defense and unmatched expertise in traffic ticket expungements, our lead attorney handles more expungements than anyone else in the state.
  • Step-by-Step Support
    We’re here to make sure you feel at ease, with a team that prioritizes professionalism and respect every step of the way.
  • Trusted & Respected in the Community
    With hundreds of positive reviews, we are known for being relatable, confident, and trustworthy—ready to help you through even the toughest legal challenges.

After A DUI Arrest: Steps To Protect Yourself

Right after a DUI arrest, it is easy to freeze or ignore the paperwork that was handed to you. Taking a few careful steps can make a real difference in how prepared you are for what comes next. We often walk new clients through these same basic actions during our first conversation.

Consider taking these steps as soon as you can:

  • Read your paperwork carefully. Look at the citations, release documents, and any notices about your driver’s license. In Utah, license actions often follow their own path that runs alongside the criminal case, and deadlines can come up quickly.
  • Avoid talking about your case on social media. Posts, messages, and photos can be saved and misunderstood. It is usually safer to discuss details only with your attorney and to keep information off public or semi public platforms.
  • Write down what you remember. As soon as you are able, make notes about where you were before the stop, how the officer described the reason for pulling you over, what tests you were asked to perform, and what you were told about the breath or blood test. Small details that seem unimportant now can matter later.
  • Gather documents and information. Keep your paperwork in one place, including court notices, test results that were given to you, and any documents from the jail. If there were passengers or witnesses, make a list of names and contact information if you have it.
  • Speak with a dui lawyer soon. An early conversation can help you understand your rights, what to expect at the first hearing, and how to deal with both the criminal case and the license side. When you contact us, we focus on these early steps so they do not get missed in the stress of the situation.

Every DUI case is different, but most share a common theme. The sooner you understand the process and your options, the more prepared you can be for the decisions ahead. Our team is here to guide you through those first days and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I lose my license after a DUI arrest in this area?

A DUI arrest can lead to license consequences, but the outcome depends on factors like test results, prior history, and deadlines in Utah’s separate administrative process. License issues are handled apart from the criminal case and often involve strict timelines. Reviewing notices early helps ensure you understand your options and do not miss opportunities to protect your driving privileges.

Do I really need a lawyer for a first-time DUI?

First-time DUI cases often involve mandatory penalties and long-term consequences, even when jail is unlikely. A conviction can affect your record, license, and insurance. A DUI lawyer helps explain the evidence, identify legal issues, and communicate with prosecutors, allowing you to make informed decisions rather than navigating complex laws on your own.

What happens at my first court date for a DUI?

The first DUI court date typically involves advising you of the charges, your rights, and setting future hearings. You may appear in West Jordan Justice Court or a nearby district court. Preparation helps reduce stress, as you will know what questions to expect and how the process works at this initial stage.

Can a DUI affect my job or professional license?

A DUI charge can impact employment or professional licensing, depending on your field and employer policies. Some jobs and licensing boards review criminal cases closely. Discussing your work early allows these concerns to be considered in your defense strategy, helping you plan for disclosure issues and potential professional consequences.

What if my DUI case also involves an accident or injuries?

DUI cases involving accidents or injuries are often more complex and may include higher charges, restitution, or related civil claims. Decisions in the criminal case can affect these other matters. When advising clients, the firm considers both criminal and potential civil issues to help you understand the broader impact and risks.

Talk With Our Team About Your DUI Case

At Melton Law, we bring a focused criminal defense practice, a personalized approach, and a strong record in traffic related matters to every case we handle. 

We are based in Taylorsville and regularly represent people whose DUI cases arise in this part of Salt Lake County. When you contact us, we take time to learn about your situation, explain your options, and start building a strategy that fits your life and goals.

To talk with our team about your DUI or drunk driving case, call (801) 781-5803 or reach out to us online today.

Melton Law Strategic Representation, Proven Results

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