As a legal expert who has tracked California’s DUI landscape for years, I can tell you that the Golden State has some of the most unforgiving alcohol and drug-related traffic laws in the nation. From the tech-heavy courts of San Francisco to the strict enforcement in San Diego, a DUI conviction in California can result in astronomical fines, loss of licensure, and mandatory IID (Ignition Interlock Device) installation. My goal with this statewide guide is to provide a master list of the elite practitioners who operate throughout California. I have vetted these attorneys based on their board certifications, their history with the California DMV’s Office of Driver Safety, and their ability to handle both misdemeanor and felony "Injury DUI" cases. Whether you were stopped in the Bay Area or the Inland Empire, these are the legal minds I trust to defend your future.
California's Statewide DUI Impact
California operates on a "Two Case" system: the Criminal Court case and the DMV Administrative Per Se (APS) hearing. You must request your DMV hearing within 10 days of arrest, or your license is automatically suspended. These firms excel at managing both.
Top 10 DUI Lawyers in California
1. Michael Kraut - Kraut Law Group (Statewide)
Michael Kraut is a Harvard-educated former prosecutor who is widely considered the top criminal defense mind in California. He handles high-profile cases from LA to the Central Valley.
Website: https://www.losangelescriminallawyer.pro
Phone: (323) 464-6453
Email: mkraut@krautlawgroup.com
2. Myles L. Berman - Top Gun DUI (SoCal)
Myles Berman is a household name in California DUI defense, known for his aggressive litigation style and focus on forensic evidence accuracy.
Website: https://www.topgundui.com
Phone: (310) 273-9501
Email: duilaw@topgundui.com
3. Paul Burglin - Burglin Law (NorCal)
Paul Burglin is one of the state's most respected experts on DUI science. He literally co-authors the definitive treatise on California DUI law.
Website: https://www.burglin.com
Phone: (415) 729-7300
Email: paul@burglin.com
4. Richard Middlebrook - Middlebrook & Associates
Based in Bakersfield but serving the state, Middlebrook is Kern County’s preeminent DUI defender and a frequent lecturer on blood testing forensics.
Website: https://www.kerncountylaw.com
Phone: (661) 443-4700
Email: civillit@aol.com
5. Shaffer Cormell
Shaffer provides dedicated representation for DUI and DUID (drugs) throughout California, known for his success in challenging unlawful police stops.
Website: https://www.californiacriminalattorney.us
Phone: (888) 922-5051
Email: shaffer@californiacriminalattorney.us
6. Joshua Bourne - Bourne Law Firm
A San Diego-based expert, Joshua Bourne is known for his aggressive defense of both civilian and military personnel facing DUI charges in Southern California.
Website: https://www.bournelaw.com
Phone: (619) 238-8242
Email: josh@bournelaw.com
7. Wise Law Group (Sacramento)
Michael Wise is the go-to for DUI defense in Northern California and the Sacramento region, focusing on felony DUI and high-BAC litigation.
Website: https://www.wisechoicelaw.com
Phone: (916) 498-9473
Email: info@wisechoicelaw.com
8. Joe Vandervoort - "The DUI King"
Known affectionately as the DUI King in Northern California, Joe has a legendary track record for dismissals in the Butte County and Chico areas.
Website: https://www.duiking.com
Phone: (530) 342-2858
Email: duiking@duiking.com
9. Gold & Witham (Orange County/LA)
This team offers personalized, elite defense in Orange County and Los Angeles, focusing on the intersection of DUI law and professional licensing.
Website: https://www.wedodui.com
Phone: (800) 716-6791
Email: wedodui@aol.com
10. Vincent Tucci - Tucci Law
Vincent is highly regarded for his ability to win DMV hearings, often saving his clients' driving privileges even when the criminal case is difficult.
Website: https://www.tuccilaw.com
Phone: (714) 730-5300
Email: info@tuccilaw.com
Statewide & Regional Legal Guides
California is a large state with diverse legal climates. Explore more: Orange County DUI, Los Angeles DUI, Bakersfield DUI Help, Fresno CA DUI Law, Atlanta GA Experts, Maryland DUI Overview, Dallas TX DWI Guide, Austin TX DUI, Philadelphia DUI Guide, and Phoenix AZ DUI Law.
