California
DWI / DUI Lawyer in California
A DWI or DUI charge threatens your license, your record, and sometimes your freedom. These cases need real defense work — evidence review, procedural challenges, and negotiation. Start with a consultation so an attorney can evaluate your specific case.
Talk to us before you pay that ticket
Charges like this one start with a short call. A licensed California attorney reviews your case and explains your options before you pay anything.
Request a free consultation- Win rate
- 98%
- Drivers helped
- 5,000+
- Saved for drivers
- $7M+
- Avg. insurance savings
- $1,422
How it works
Three steps from ticket to result.
- STEP 01
Share your ticket
Upload your citation and basic details in minutes.
- STEP 02
An attorney takes over
A licensed attorney reviews your case and walks you through your options.
- STEP 03
Get updates until it's done
We keep you posted at every step — most cases end with a reduced or dismissed charge.
Why it matters in California
What a dwi / dui costs in California
- Typical fine
- $390–$1,000 base fine first offense — commonly $2,000+ with assessments
- License points
- 2 points
- Insurance impact
- A DUI conviction typically doubles or triples California premiums and requires SR-22 filing for three years.
- License risk
- DMV administrative suspension starts unless you request a hearing within 10 days of arrest; a first conviction brings a suspension with IID-restricted driving available and a 3-month DUI program.
Frequently asked questions
What is the 10-day rule after a California DUI arrest?
You have 10 days from arrest to request a DMV Administrative Per Se hearing, or your license suspension proceeds automatically — regardless of what happens in criminal court. It's the single most urgent deadline in the case, and an attorney can request the hearing for you.
Why do California DUI cases start with a consultation rather than a quote?
Because two DUI files are never alike — the stop's legality, the breath or blood evidence, rising-BAC issues, and your history all shape the defense and the work involved. We connect you with a licensed California attorney who reviews your case before any strategy or fee discussion.
Can I keep driving after a California DUI?
Usually yes, in some form — California's ignition interlock rules let most first offenders drive without interruption by installing an IID, or obtain a restricted license for work and program travel. An attorney maps the option that fits your situation.
What are the realistic outcomes for a first offense?
They range from dismissal or reduction (wet reckless, dry reckless) where the evidence has problems, to a standard first-offense disposition with probation, fines, and a 3-month program. Which end of that range applies depends entirely on your facts.
How long does a DUI stay on my California record?
It's priorable for 10 years — a second offense inside that window is punished as a repeat. The DMV and insurance consequences also run for years, which is why the fight over the first conviction matters so much.
Talk to us before you pay that ticket
Tell us about your case and we'll connect you with a licensed attorney who can evaluate your options — no obligation.
Request a free consultation