Best DUI Attorney in California: Who to Turn to When You Need Help

If you are facing charges for driving under the influence (DUI) in California, you need the best legal representation on your side to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future. With so many lawyers to choose from, it can be tough to know where to turn. In this article, we will explore the top DUI attorneys in California, their strengths and weaknesses, and what you can expect when you hire them to defend your case.

Introduction: Understanding DUI Charges in California

Before we dive into the best DUI attorneys in California, let’s review some key facts about DUI charges in the state.

What is DUI in California?

Under California law, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. If you are caught driving under the influence, you can face serious penalties, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time.

What are the Penalties for DUI in California?

The penalties for DUI in California vary depending on the circumstances of your case, including your BAC, whether you have prior DUI convictions, and whether anyone was injured or killed as a result of your actions. Here are some of the potential consequences you could face:

Possible Consequences First DUI Offense Second DUI Offense Third DUI Offense
Fines Up to $2,000 Up to $2,500 Up to $3,000
License Suspension 6 months 2 years 3 years
Jail Time Up to 6 months Up to 1 year Up to 3 years
Ignition Interlock Device Optional Required Required
As you can see, the consequences of a DUI conviction in California can be severe. That’s why it’s so important to have the best DUI attorney on your side to fight for your rights and minimize the impact of the charges against you.

The Pros and Cons of Hiring a DUI Attorney in California

Now that you know what’s at stake in a DUI case in California, let’s explore the pros and cons of hiring a DUI attorney to represent you.

Pros of Hiring a DUI Attorney

  • Experience: DUI attorneys have extensive experience representing clients in DUI cases, which means they know how to navigate the legal system and build a strong defense strategy on your behalf.
  • Expertise: DUI attorneys have specialized knowledge of the laws and regulations that govern DUI cases in California, which means they can spot weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and use them to your advantage.
  • Investigation: DUI attorneys have the resources to conduct a thorough investigation of your case, including gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses, which can help strengthen your defense.
  • Negotiation: DUI attorneys are skilled negotiators who can work with the prosecution to reach a plea agreement or reduce the charges against you, which can help you avoid the most severe penalties.

    • Cons of Hiring a DUI Attorney

  • Cost: Hiring a DUI attorney can be expensive, especially if your case goes to trial. However, the cost of not hiring an attorney and facing the maximum penalties for a DUI conviction can be even higher.
  • No Guarantee of Success: There is no guarantee that hiring a DUI attorney will result in a favorable outcome in your case. However, having an experienced and knowledgeable attorney on your side can significantly increase your chances of success.
    • Overall, the benefits of hiring a DUI attorney in California far outweigh the potential drawbacks. With the right attorney on your side, you can protect your rights and your future, no matter how serious the charges against you may be.

    The Top DUI Attorneys in California: Who to Turn to for Help

    Now that you know why it’s so important to hire a DUI attorney in California, let’s take a closer look at some of the top attorneys in the state and what sets them apart from the rest.

    1. Jon Bryant Artz

    With over 40 years of experience in DUI defense, Jon Bryant Artz is widely regarded as one of the top DUI attorneys in California. He has a reputation for being a fierce advocate for his clients and has won numerous awards for his work in the field. Some of his most notable achievements include:

  • Being the only DUI attorney in California to have won four DMV license suspension hearings in a row.
  • Being named “Lawyer of the Year” by Best Lawyers in America for DUI defense in 2019.
  • Being featured in numerous media outlets, including The New York Times, CNN, and ABC News.
    • If you want an attorney with a proven track record of success in DUI cases, Jon Bryant Artz is an excellent choice.

    2. Lawrence Taylor

    With over 50 years of experience in DUI defense, Lawrence Taylor is one of the most respected and experienced DUI attorneys in California. He is the author of “Drunk Driving Defense,” which is widely regarded as the leading text on the subject, and has won numerous awards for his work in the field. Some of his most notable achievements include:

  • Being named “Lawyer of the Year” by Best Lawyers in America for DUI defense in 2014.
  • Being featured in numerous media outlets, including The New York Times, Time Magazine, and CNN.
  • Having represented numerous high-profile clients, including celebrities and politicians.
    • If you want an attorney with unmatched expertise in DUI defense, Lawrence Taylor is an excellent choice.

    3. Myles L. Berman

    With over 30 years of experience in DUI defense, Myles L. Berman is a trusted and respected name in California DUI law. He is the founder of the Berman Law Group and has won numerous awards for his work in the field. Some of his most notable achievements include:

  • Being named “Lawyer of the Year” by Best Lawyers in America for DUI defense in 2015.
  • Being featured in numerous media outlets, including The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and The Los Angeles Times.
  • Having represented over 5,000 clients in DUI cases.
    • If you want an attorney with a deep understanding of California DUI law and a proven track record of success, Myles L. Berman is an excellent choice.

    4. Mark Rosenfeld

    With over 20 years of experience in DUI defense, Mark Rosenfeld is a highly respected and successful attorney in California. He has a reputation for being a skilled negotiator and has won numerous awards for his work in the field. Some of his most notable achievements include:

  • Being named “Lawyer of the Year” by Best Lawyers in America for DUI defense in 2013.
  • Being featured in numerous media outlets, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and NBC News.
  • Having represented over 1,000 clients in DUI cases.
    • If you want an attorney who is known for getting results and fighting tirelessly for his clients, Mark Rosenfeld is an excellent choice.

    5. Paul Burglin

    With over 30 years of experience in DUI defense, Paul Burglin is a highly respected and successful attorney in California. He is the author of “California Drunk Driving Law,” which is widely regarded as one of the leading texts on the subject, and has won numerous awards for his work in the field. Some of his most notable achievements include:

  • Being named “Lawyer of the Year” by Best Lawyers in America for DUI defense in 2016.
  • Being featured in numerous media outlets, including The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and CNN.
  • Having represented numerous high-profile clients, including professional athletes and celebrities.
    • If you want an attorney with unmatched knowledge of California DUI law and a proven track record of success, Paul Burglin is an excellent choice.

    Frequently Asked Questions About DUI Attorneys in California

    1. How much does a DUI attorney cost in California?

    The cost of hiring a DUI attorney in California varies depending on the attorney’s experience, reputation, and the complexity of your case. On average, you can expect to pay between $2,500 and $10,000 for a DUI attorney in California.

    2. Will a DUI attorney be able to get my charges dismissed?

    While there is no guarantee that a DUI attorney will be able to get your charges dismissed, having an experienced attorney on your side can significantly increase your chances of success. Your attorney will work to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, negotiate with the prosecutor, and build a strong defense strategy on your behalf.

    3. How long does a DUI case take in California?

    The length of a DUI case in California can vary depending on the circumstances of your case, including how complex the case is and how busy the court system is. On average, however, you can expect a DUI case to take anywhere from 3 to 9 months to resolve.

    4. Can I represent myself in a DUI case in California?

    While it is possible to represent yourself in a DUI case in California, it is not recommended. DUI cases can be complex, and the consequences of a conviction can be severe. Hiring an experienced DUI attorney is the best way to protect your rights and your future.

    5. What should I look for in a DUI attorney in California?

    When hiring a DUI attorney in California, you should look for an attorney who has extensive experience and knowledge of DUI law in the state. You should also look for an attorney who is responsive, communicative, and who is willing to work with you to develop a defense strategy that meets your needs and goals.

    6. Will I have to go to trial for my DUI case in California?

    While it is possible that your DUI case in California could go to trial, most cases are resolved through negotiation between your attorney and the prosecutor. Your attorney will work to negotiate a plea agreement or reduced charges on your behalf to minimize the impact of the charges against you.

    7. Can a DUI attorney help me keep my driver’s license in California?

    Yes, a DUI attorney can help you keep your driver’s license in California. Your attorney can represent you at a DMV hearing and work to prevent your license from being suspended or revoked.

    Conclusion: Protect Your Rights with the Best DUI Attorney in California

    If you are facing charges for driving under the influence in California, you need the best legal representation on your side to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future. With the top DUI attorneys in California on your side, you can rest assured that you are getting the best possible defense against the charges against you. Don’t wait – contact a DUI attorney today to get the help you need.

    Actionable Tips:

  • Research the top DUI attorneys in California before making a decision on who to hire.
  • Be prepared to pay for quality legal representation – the cost of not hiring an attorney can be much higher in the long run.
  • Stay in communication with your attorney throughout your case, and be honest and upfront about your situation and your goals.
  • Take steps to minimize the risk of future DUI charges, including avoiding driving under the influence and seeking treatment for alcohol or substance abuse if necessary.

    • Disclaimer:

    The information contained in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The best course of action in any legal matter is to consult with an experienced attorney who can provide tailored advice based on your specific circumstances.

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