I live 200 miles from the area where I got the ticket. Should I look for a lawyer in the area closer to the court?

Question

Actually, I’m looking for pro bono.  How can I afford to get out of this mess?  I'm 76 on SS.  I ride a large motorcycle.  My friend and I had lunch at a golf course.  We both had two drinks.  Cruising in the hills near Sonora, CA I hit sand in a turn and crashed.  Slid to the side of the road with no public damage other my motorcycle.  Unconscious, I don't remember the crash or being at the scene.  Broke my left tibia.  They charged for a helicopter rescue.  Woke up in the wrong hospital with my family getting some answers as to why I wasn't taken to Kaiser.  Somewhere in all this confusion, either at the scene or at the hospital, an officer says I refused a breath test.  I have no memory of that.  I've been driving for over 60 years and NEVER had a DUI.  No tickets in more than 20 years.  If this crash was used as probable cause for a breath test, my dash cam has time stamps when we left the restaurant.  Also, the entire crash was recorded and even shows the sand on the road.

James L. Arrasmith · Answer

Given your situation, here are a few steps you can take: 
 
1. Legal aid: Look for legal aid organizations in California that provide free or low-cost legal services to seniors or low-income individuals. Some organizations to consider are California Rural Legal Assistance, Legal Services of Northern California, and Senior Legal Hotline. 
 
2. Public defender: If you cannot afford a private attorney, you may be eligible for a public defender. Contact the public defender's office in the county where your case will be heard. 
 
3. Pro bono attorneys: Contact local bar associations, such as the Sonora Chamber of Commerce or the State Bar of California, and inquire about pro bono attorneys who may be willing to take on your case. 
 
4. Evidence: Preserve and organize all evidence that may help your case, including the dash cam footage showing the time you left the restaurant and the crash itself, as well as any medical records related to your injury and hospital stay. 
 
5. Request a hearing: If you believe you were wrongfully charged with refusing a breath test, request a DMV hearing within 10 days of receiving the notice of suspension. This hearing is separate from your criminal case and may help you retain your driving privileges. 
 
6. Attend all court dates: Make sure to attend all court appearances and follow the instructions provided by the court or your attorney. 
 
Remember, it is crucial to act quickly and gather as much information and evidence as possible to support your case. Don't hesitate to reach out to multiple organizations and attorneys to find the best assistance for your situation.

Q: I live 200 miles from the area where I got the ticket. Should I look for a lawyer in the area closer to the court?