Best DUI Lawyers in Los Angeles (2024)

Best DUI Lawyers Los Angeles (2024): If you find yourself pulled over and facing a driving under the influence charge in Los Angeles, the single most important decision you’ll make is choosing the right lawyer. A skilled DUI attorney in Los Angeles can be the difference between a suspended license, hefty fines, and even jail time versus a minimized sentence or even getting the charges dismissed altogether.

Finding the best Los Angeles DUI attorney isn’t always easy. With countless options flooding the web, from “best Los Angeles DUI attorney” to “DUI attorney San Fernando Valley,” it can be overwhelming to know where to begin, especially when you’re facing the stress of a legal situation. That’s where this post comes in.

Best DUI Lawyers in Los Angeles, CA

If you’re looking for top DUI lawyers in Los Angeles, here are some notable options:

Hart J. Levin

Hart J. Levin is a former Los Angeles Deputy District Attorney and a highly regarded DUI lawyer in Los Angeles. His law firm, the Law Offices of Hart J. Levin, specializes in DUI defense and has an impressive track record. Here are some key points about him:

• Levin has achieved remarkable results throughout his career.
• He has dismissed over 500 DUI cases and helped an impressive 94% of clients avoid jail time.
• His reputation as a Super Lawyer and the highest-rated DUI defense attorney speaks to his commitment to clients’ defense.

James E. Blatt

James E. Blatt is a highly experienced criminal defense attorney based in Los Angeles, California. Let me share some key details about him:

• Blatt worked at the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, trying 93 cases with an impressive success rate.
• His commitment to helping people led him to become a criminal defense attorney.
• Blatt’s exceptional service as the 1984-85 President of the San Fernando Valley Criminal Bar Association was recognized by the City Council of Los Angeles.
• He has been practicing law for over 40 years and continues to provide hard-hitting defense for clients facing criminal charges.

Carl E. Douglas

Carl E. Douglas is an American civil rights, wrongful death, personal injury, employment, and criminal defense attorney. He gained prominence as one of the defense attorneys in the O. J. Simpson murder case, where he was part of the renowned “Dream Team” of lawyers. Here are some key points about him:

• Douglas was the managing attorney at the law office of Johnnie Cochran Jr. before establishing his firm, now known as Douglas / Hicks Law.
• He represented high-profile clients, including singer Michael Jackson, actors Jamie Foxx and Queen Latifah, former NFL safety Darren Sharper, and rappers Tupac Shakur and Sean “Puffy” Combs.
• In the case of Patricia Anderson vs. General Motors, General Motors was ordered to pay a record price of $4.9 billion for damages when two women and four children were trapped inside a 1979 Chevrolet Malibu, and the gas tank exploded on Christmas Eve of 1993.

Alan J. Jackson

Alan J. Jackson is a highly sought-after criminal defense attorney based in Los Angeles, California. Here are some key details about him:

• Alan Jackson served as a prosecutor and Assistant Head Deputy for the Major Crimes Division at the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.
• He has an extensive understanding of criminal cases from every angle, having handled some of California’s most consequential criminal trials.
• Jackson played a crucial role in prosecuting music legend Phil Spector for murder.
• Recently, he secured the exoneration of a Venice Beach hotel owner accused of murder. The case gained national attention due to tensions between the homeless population and local businesses.
• Jackson successfully defended an heir accused of rape and other sex crimes after an exhaustive investigation by his trial team.

Karen L. Goldstein

Karen L. Goldstein is a highly respected criminal defense attorney based in Los Angeles, California. Let me share some key details about her:

• Ms. Goldstein has been practicing criminal defense since 2003, representing clients accused of both state and federal crimes.
• She passionately fights for her client’s rights and obtains impressive case results.
• Her motto is “Persistent, Principled, and Passionate Criminal Defense.”
• She accepts appointments from state and federal courts to represent indigent clients, ensuring vigorous defense for all socio-economic backgrounds.
• Her relentless advocacy and meticulous preparation benefit every client she represents.

Also, Read:

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• Personal Injury Lawyers in Los Angeles
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• Dog Bite Lawyers in Los Angeles
• Wrongful Death Attorney in Los Angeles
• Divorce Lawyers in Los Angeles

DUI Laws in LA, California

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Los Angeles, California, and throughout the state. Here’s a breakdown of key DUI laws in LA to ensure you’re informed and make responsible choices.

Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limits

California has a standard legal BAC limit of 0.08% for drivers over 21 years old. This means if a chemical test, such as a breathalyzer or blood test, shows your BAC is 0.08% or higher, you can be arrested for DUI.

Important to Note:

• Drivers under 21 years old have a zero-tolerance policy. Any measurable amount of alcohol in their system is considered a DUI.
• Even if your BAC is below the legal limit, you can still be arrested for DUI if an officer suspects you are impaired by alcohol or drugs. This applies to driving under the influence of prescription medications or illegal drugs.

Penalties for DUI in Los Angeles

A DUI conviction in LA can have significant consequences, including:

• Fines: Fines can range from several hundred dollars to thousands of dollars, depending on the severity of the offense and any prior DUI convictions.
• Jail Time: First-time offenders may face jail time ranging from a few days to several months. Repeat offenders can face much harsher sentences, including significant jail time.
• Driver’s License Suspension: A DUI conviction will result in a driver’s license suspension. The length of the suspension depends on the circumstances of the offense and any prior offenses.
• Installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID): An IID requires the driver to blow into a breathalyzer before starting the car. The vehicle won’t start if the BAC is above a pre-set limit.
• Increased Insurance Rates: A DUI conviction will significantly increase your car insurance rates.

How to File a DUI Lawsuit in LA?

It’s important to understand that there’s a distinction between a DUI criminal case and a DUI civil lawsuit in Los Angeles. Here’s a breakdown:

• DUI Criminal Case: The state handles this and prosecutes you for violating DUI laws. If convicted, you face penalties like fines, jail time, license suspension, and increased insurance rates.
• DUI Civil Lawsuit: This is a separate legal action where you, as the victim of a DUI accident, sue the drunk driver for compensation for damages caused by the accident. Here’s why you likely wouldn’t file a DUI lawsuit yourself:
• DUI is a Criminal Offense: A DUI lawsuit doesn’t address the criminal offense itself. The state handles the criminal case.
• Civil Lawsuits are for Damages: A DUI civil lawsuit would only be applicable if you were involved in an accident caused by the drunk driver and suffered damages like injuries, property damage, or lost wages.

How to find the best DUI lawyers in Los Angeles?

Finding the best DUI attorney in Los Angeles requires some research and consideration of your specific needs. Here are some steps to guide you:

Know Your Priorities:

• Experience: DUI law is a specialized field. Prioritize lawyers with extensive experience handling DUI cases in Los Angeles courts.
• Success Rate: While past performance isn’t a guarantee of future results, inquire about the lawyer’s success rate in getting charges reduced or dismissed.
• Communication Style: Find a lawyer who clearly explains complex legal matters and keeps you informed throughout the process.
• Fees: DUI lawyers typically charge hourly rates or flat fees. Be upfront about your budget and inquire about fee structures during consultations.

Start Your Research:

• Online Directories: Reputable legal directories like Avvo, Justia, and Nolo provide profiles of DUI lawyers in your area, including client reviews and ratings.
• California State Bar Association: The State Bar website allows you to search for licensed attorneys and verify their disciplinary history.
• Word-of-Mouth Referrals: Ask friends, family, or colleagues who may have had positive experiences with DUI lawyers in LA.

Schedule Consultations

• Contact Several Lawyers: Contact a few lawyers on your shortlist and schedule initial consultations. Many lawyers offer free consultations, allowing you to discuss your case and assess their expertise and demeanor.
• Ask Questions: Prepare a list of questions regarding their experience with similar cases, potential defense strategies, and estimated fees.
• Trust Your Gut: It’s important to feel comfortable and confident with your chosen lawyer. Choose someone who demonstrates strong communication skills and inspires trust.

How much does a DUI attorney cost in LA?

The cost of hiring a DUI attorney in Los Angeles can vary depending on several factors, but here’s a general breakdown:

• Billing Structure: DUI lawyers in LA typically use one of two billing structures:
  • Hourly Rate: You’re charged based on the time the lawyer spends working on your case. Hourly rates can range from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on the lawyer’s experience and reputation.
  • Flat Fee: This involves a fixed price for the entire case, which may be more predictable but might not cover unexpected circumstances. Flat fees for a first-offense DUI in LA can typically range from $5,000 to $10,000.
• Complexity of Your Case: More complex cases involving serious accidents, injuries, or multiple offenses will likely cost more than straightforward cases. Factors like the need for expert witnesses or extensive pre-trial motions can also increase the cost.

Here’s a ballpark estimate:

• Simple First Offense: You might expect costs ranging from $1,500 to $5,000 (depending on billing structure).
• Complex Cases: Costs could reach $10,000 or even higher for severe DUIs with substantial legal challenges.

What should I do after a DUI arrest in LA?

Here’s a roadmap of what to do after a DUI arrest in Los Angeles:

Immediately Following Arrest:

1. Stay Calm and Polite: While the situation is stressful, avoid arguing or resisting arrest. Cooperate with the officers but politely assert your right to remain silent.
2. Know Your Rights: You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Don’t answer questions beyond basic identification unless your lawyer advises otherwise.
3. Consider a Chemical Test: Refusal can lead to an automatic license suspension, but consult with a lawyer before deciding.

Within the First 24-48 Hours:

1. Contact a DUI Lawyer: This is the most crucial step. An experienced DUI lawyer can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and potentially negotiate a better outcome.
2. Gather Evidence (Optional): If possible, take note of details like the time of arrest, officers’ names, and any unusual circumstances.

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