Arrested for DUI Near Naval Base San Diego or Coronado? Here’s What You Need to Know
Military Area DUI Arrests Come with Extra Risk
Driving under the influence (DUI) is taken seriously throughout California but if you’re arrested near Naval Base San Diego or Coronado, the stakes can be even higher.
Whether you’re a civilian, military servicemember, or visiting contractor, a DUI in or around military installations can trigger complicated legal consequences, sometimes in both civilian and military courts.
San Diego DUI Attorney, Rick Mueller, understands how DUI arrests near military areas like Coronado, North Island, and 32nd Street Naval Station can lead to jurisdictional confusion, harsh penalties, and career-threatening outcomes.
Here’s what you need to know if you were arrested for DUI in these areas and how hiring a local DUI attorney can help.
Civilian vs. Military Jurisdiction: Who Handles Your Case?
DUIs that occur near military bases can fall under state, federal, or even military court jurisdiction, depending on where and how the arrest happened.
You’re likely in California State Court if:
- You were pulled over by local police (e.g., Coronado PD, SDPD, CHP)
- The DUI occurred outside the gate or off base housing
- You’re a civilian or contractor
In this case, you’ll face traditional California DUI charges and DMV consequences. Your case will go through the San Diego Superior Court, and you may also need to defend your license in a California DMV hearing.
You could be in Federal Court if:
- You were stopped by base security or military police
- The arrest happened on base property, like North Island NAS or housing zones
- You’re a non-military individual driving on federal land
In this scenario, you may be charged under the Assimilative Crimes Act, which allows federal authorities to apply California DUI law on federal property. Your case could go through U.S. District Court in downtown San Diego.
And if you’re active-duty military and arrested for DUI, on or off base, you could face:
- Nonjudicial punishment (Article 15)
- Loss of rank or pay
- UCMJ charges
- Administrative discharge or separation
DUI Arrests on Coronado: Local Issues That Matter
DUI stops in Coronado and near Naval Base San Diego often involve:
- Zero tolerance on bridge and gate approaches
- Checkpoint activity near base entry points
- Heightened security protocols that lead to faster arrests
- Jurisdictional confusion that delays proper legal representation
In these situations, it’s critical that you work with a San Diego DUI attorney who understands military jurisdiction boundaries and local traffic enforcement trends around Coronado and the naval bases.
What You Risk if Convicted of DUI Near Naval Base San Diego
A DUI conviction in San Diego County, even as a first-time offender, can lead to:
- Driver’s license suspension (up to 1 year)
- Mandatory DUI classes
- Thousands in fines and fees
- Jail time or probation
- Ignition interlock device (IID) installation
- Career consequences for military personnel or government contractors
If you’re in the Navy, Marines, or any military branch, the impact could extend beyond your sentence: clearances, security credentials, and your future with the military may all be on the line.
Your Defense Starts with a Credible DUI Lawyer
California DUI Lawyers Association Specialist, Rick Mueller, has helped clients navigate DUI cases near Coronado, 32nd Street Naval Station, North Island Naval Air Station, and other military facilities throughout San Diego County.
He knows how to:
- Challenge the validity of field sobriety tests
- Address federal vs. state court complications
- Communicate with base authorities and JAG offices
- Fight to preserve your driver’s license and military record
Whether you’re a civilian or service member, you deserve a legal defense that understands your world. With the right defense, you can minimize penalties, protect your license, and avoid damage to your military or civilian career.
Contact Rick Mueller for a free consultation today and let an experienced San Diego DUI lawyer help you take the first step toward putting this behind you.
Arrested for DUI Near Naval Base San Diego or Coronado? Here’s What You Need to Know