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Best DUI Lawyers in Santa Barbara, CA

Our Recommended Top 19

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Our goal is to connect people with the best local professionals. We scored Santa Barbara DUI Lawyers on more than 25 variables across five categories, and analyzed the results to give you a hand-picked list of the best.

47Reviewed

35Curated

19Top Picks

Learn about our selection process.

Providers

featured provider = Featured Provider

140 East Figueroa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Google
4.7 (28)
Yelp
5.0 (21)

Why choose this provider?

Law Offices of William C. Makler PC serves clients throughout the Santa Barbara metro area. This firm defends clients who are facing DUI charges and guides them through the criminal justice system. It also defends these people's rights to stop them from being tried unfairly or being accused using faulty evidence. Law Offices of William C. Makler PC helps clients to address penalties imposed on their driver's licenses and prevent total suspension or revocation when possible.

  • DUI Defense

Attorney Information

Attorney NameBar StatusExperience
William Makler - PrincipalActive28 yrs
William Makler - PrincipalActive28 yrs

3463 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93105

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Yelp
5.0 (46)
Google
5.0 (35)
Facebook
5.0 (2)

Why choose this provider?

Law Offices of Kenneth M. Hallum provides criminal defense services for clients facing charges for DUI in Santa Barbara. Its namesake attorney has practiced since 2004 and has significant experience defending clients against criminal charges and working to get them favorable outcomes in DMV hearings. Law Offices of Kenneth M. Hallum also has vast experience with traffic offenses and speeding tickets and regularly represents clients facing both kinds of charges simultaneously. Bankruptcy representation services are available.

Attorney Information

Attorney NameBar StatusExperience
Kenneth Hallum - principalActive20 yrs

1220 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Google
5.0 (16)
Yelp
5.0 (6)

Why choose this provider?

Law Office of J'Aimee L. Oxton PC is a criminal law firm that defends people charged with driving under the influence. Its namesake attorney has over 15 years of legal experience and advocates for clients throughout DUI trials. This firm can also arrange agreements with prosecutors to mitigate sentences when beneficial to clients. Representation is available to juveniles charged with DUI, and Law Office of J'Aimee L. Oxton PC assists all DUI clients with administrative procedures involving the DMV.

Attorney Information

Attorney NameBar StatusExperience
J'aimee Oxton - PrincipalActive13 yrs

225 East Carrillo Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Google
4.7 (41)
Yelp
5.0 (1)

Why choose this provider?

Lytel & Lytel LLP is a law firm that handles cases involving DUI charges. The firm defends clients in court and throughout the justice system to protect them from conviction and keep their driving records from being marked with DUI charges. It also deals with cases involving faulty breathalyzer tests or other evidence to prevent clients from being unjustly prosecuted. Lytel & Lytel LLP offers general criminal defense services for other kinds of charges as well.

Attorney Information

Attorney NameBar StatusExperience
Diana Lytel - PartnerActive18 yrs

3463 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93105

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Yelp
5.0 (48)
Avvo
5.0 (36)
Google
5.0 (35)

Why choose this provider?

With only 10 days to schedule a hearing to avert license suspension alongside California's stringent .08% blood alcohol content (BAC) threshold, getting flagged for driving under the influence (of either alcohol or drugs) warrants immediate action. Clients can seek the help of Kenneth M. Hallum, Esq.—an experienced criminal defense lawyer and a retired police officer who caters near-exclusively to DUI defense in Santa Barbara. Admitted to the State Bar of California in 2004, Kenneth also handles cases involving restricted licenses, felony DUIs, underage DUIs, field sobriety tests, and ignition interlock devices.

  • Alcohol
  • DUI Defense

Attorney Information

Attorney NameBar StatusExperience
Kenneth Hallum - PrincipalActive20 yrs

924 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Google
5.0 (35)
Yelp
5.0 (1)
FindLaw
5.0 (1)

Why choose this provider?

RBX Law represents individuals in Santa Barbara who have been arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Its team defends clients' innocence and rights by identifying errors in police procedures and results of field sobriety tests. The law firm also handles cases involving drivers who were drugged without their consent or individuals who drove under the influence to protect their safety. Founding attorney Russell Brown has clerked for Santa Barbara criminal defense attorneys in 2007.

  • DUI Defense

770 County Square Drive, Suite 215, Ventura, CA 93003

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Google
4.6 (44)
Yelp
4.5 (17)
Facebook
5.0 (3)

Why choose this provider?

Strongest Defense is a law firm that helps Santa Barbara residents who are facing criminal charges. It represents individuals arrested for DUI offenses that may lead to possible probation, loss of driver's license, and jail time. Its professionals, led by founder David Lehr, assess police reports and evidence, build defense strategies and solutions, and assist clients in the legal process from consultation to probation. Lehr was a former Deputy District Attorney and has been practicing law for over 25 years.

  • DUI Defense

15 West Carrillo Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Google
5.0 (41)
Facebook
5.0 (5)
Yelp
5.0 (3)

Why choose this provider?

Aron Law Firm can help those charged with DUI in Santa Barbara by representing them in trials and defending their rights within the justice system. This firm is experienced with DUI cases involving both alcohol and illicit drugs. It also handles cases that involve boats. Aron Law Firm advocates for clients both when handling the criminal process and when dealing with the Department of Motor Vehicles. General criminal defense services are available as well.

Attorney Information

Attorney NameBar StatusExperience
William Aron - Managing AttorneyActive20 yrs

840 County Square Drive, Ventura, CA 93003

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Avvo
4.9 (94)
Facebook
4.6 (31)
Google
4.7 (14)

Why choose this provider?

Mindy H. McQueen, Attorney at Law, solely practices DUI and DMV defense. It provides legal services to clients in Santa Barbara and nearby cities. The firm represents the defendants in various hearings, including administrative per se, financial responsibility, and negligent operations. Principal Mindy McQueen has been practicing criminal law for over 31 years, both as a prosecutor and defense attorney. She has been qualified to administer standardized field sobriety tests for drunk driving by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

  • Alcohol
  • Drugs
  • DUI Defense

1020 State Street, #107, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Google
4.9 (11)

Why choose this provider?

The Law Offices of Tristan Verburgt serves DUI defendants facing charges in Santa Barbara. The firm questions the existence of probable cause to carry out the initial traffic stop and administer sobriety tests. It looks for procedural and substantive lapses in the conduct of arrests and chemical tests. The group's clientele extends to students caught with fake IDs or open alcohol containers in their vehicles. Counsel Tristan Verburgt was a deputy district attorney who took on felony jury trials.

  • DUI Defense

104 W. Anapamu Street, Suite D, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Google
4.0 (5)

Why choose this provider?

The Law Offices of Juan J. Huerta, APC Attorney at Law, offers criminal defense representation to individuals in Santa Barbara. Founder Juan J. Huerta and his team defend the rights of those charged with DUI and related alcohol offenses to minimize the repercussions of their actions. Additionally, he also represents individuals and families of victims who were injured or killed in various types of accidents, including vehicular accidents as well as serious slips and falls. Juan H. Huerta is licensed to practice law in all courts in the State of California.

  • DUI Defense

209 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Google
4.8 (17)
Yelp
5.0 (2)

Why choose this provider?

Appel & Morse is a law firm serving the Santa Barbara metro area. It provides legal representation to clients facing criminal charges for DUI. This firm defends clients facing their first DUI up to their fourth, and it assists them with the criminal trial process as well as DMV hearings and related administrative consequences. Appel & Morse serves clients who are underaged DUI defendants and clients charged with prescription DUI too. General criminal defense services and immigration-related legal services are offered as well.

Attorney Information

Attorney NameBar StatusExperience
Ian Morse - PartnerActive25 yrs

34 East Sola, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Google
5.0 (3)

Why choose this provider?

The Law Office of Rafael M. Amezaga, Jr., caters to clients throughout Santa Barbara. It handles criminal defense cases and advocates for the interests of individuals accused of crimes like DUI. The firm analyzes case facts and educates clients on various potential consequences of their charges, including jail time and separation from their families. It also has experience representing juvenile clients facing criminal charges. Rafael Amezaga Jr., its primary lawyer, previously worked in Santa Barbara as a deputy public defender.

  • DUI Defense

7 W. Figueroa Street Suite 300, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Google
5.0 (8)

Why choose this provider?

Located in Santa Barbara, the Law Office of Ali Quddus solely represents clients convicted of DUI throughout the local metro. The firm reviews and challenges evidence like breath and blood test results to obtain a favorable outcome for the accused individual. It educates them on the various potential consequences of their conviction, including incarceration, fines, and criminal records. The firm has experience defending clients accused of DUI for visiting nearby wineries. Ali Quddus, its sole lawyer, previously worked as a public defender in Santa Barbara.

  • DUI Defense

1032 Santa Barbara Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Google
5.0 (13)
Yelp
5.0 (3)

Why choose this provider?

Christy Horowitz Criminal Defense provides legal representation to clients in Santa Barbara. Its principal attorney, Christy Horowitz, has been in practice for over 13 years, working on a wide range of criminal defense cases, including DUI, domestic violence, robbery, expungement, and juvenile crimes. Her DUI representation includes capitalizing on police errors and securing reduction or dismissal of charges. She received recognition from the NTL as one of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers. Horowitz also volunteers for local organizations, including the Santa Barbara Food Bank.

  • DUI Defense

Attorney Information

Attorney NameBar StatusExperience
Christy Horowitz - PrincipalActive17 yrs

5276 Hollister Avenue, Suite 455, Santa Barbara, CA 93111

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Google
5.0 (1)

Why choose this provider?

Tri Counties Criminal Defense is a firm that serves clients in the Santa Barbara metro and the surrounding areas. It takes on criminal defense cases and provides legal representation for individuals who are facing DUI charges. Its attorneys help clients protect their rights and have their penalties reduced or dismissed. In addition, the firm accommodates clients who have concerns about the misdemeanor diversion law. One of the firm's attorneys, James “Jimmie” Askew, has been in the legal field for more than two decades.

  • DUI Defense

140 East Figueroa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Facebook
5.0 (1)

Why choose this provider?

Isla Vista Lawyer advocates for those who have been arrested and charged with DUI in Santa Barbara. William C. Makler brings more than 20 years of experience working in the State and Federal criminal justice systems, focusing on defending the rights of first-time offenders as well as those with multiple DUI charges. He assesses the validity of statements from arresting officers and analyzes field sobriety test results with the help of experienced professionals. Makler is a member of the National College for DUI Defense, Inc.

  • DUI Defense

228 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Facebook
4.3 (6)
Yelp
5.0 (3)
Google
5.0 (1)

Why choose this provider?

Lessem, Newsat, & Tooson LLP provides criminal defense services to clients in the Santa Barbara metro area. This firm's partners have over 50 years of combined legal experience and defend a multitude of clients when they're charged with DUI or multiple offenses. Counsel is available 24/7 for clients that need immediate representation and assistance with the bail process. Lessem, Newstat, & Tooson LLP can assist with any problems involving the Department of Motor Vehicles too.

  • 24/7

Attorney Information

Attorney NameBar StatusExperience
Jeremy Lessem - PartnerActive23 yrs
Jamal Tooson - PartnerActive16 yrs

701 E Santa Clara St, Ventura, CA 93001

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Google
4.4 (20)
Facebook
5.0 (1)

Why choose this provider?

The 805 Legal Team represents Santa Barbara clients in DUI cases. Whether a misdemeanor or a felony, the firm helps clients reduce or dismiss their DUI charges and move on from the experience. It analyzes police reports and sobriety tests and conducts thorough investigations and pre-filing interventions. In addition, it handles family law matters like divorce, child custody, and alimony. The practice was founded in 2017 by Nathan Passavant, a DUI defense and family law attorney.

  • DUI Defense

Attorney Information

Attorney NameBar StatusExperience
Nathan Passavant - PrincipalActive8 yrs

Compare our Top DUI Lawyers

NameExpertise RatingAddressPromotionsLearn more
Law Offices of William C. Makler, P.C.
140 East Figueroa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Law Offices of Kenneth M. Hallum
3463 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
Law Office of J'Aimee L. Oxton, PC
1220 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Lytel & Lytel, LLP
225 East Carrillo Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Kenneth M. Hallum, Esq.
3463 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
RBX Law
924 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Strongest Defense
770 County Square Drive, Suite 215, Ventura, CA 93003
Aron Law Firm
15 West Carrillo Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Mindy H. McQueen Attorney at Law
840 County Square Drive, Ventura, CA 93003
The Law Offices of Tristan Verburgt
1020 State Street, #107, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
The Law Offices of Juan J. Huerta, APC Attorney at Law
104 W. Anapamu Street, Suite D, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Appel & Morse
209 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Law Office of Rafael M. Amezaga, Jr.
34 East Sola, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Law Office of Ali Quddus
7 W. Figueroa Street Suite 300, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Christy Horowitz Criminal Defense
1032 Santa Barbara Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Tri Counties Criminal Defense
5276 Hollister Avenue, Suite 455, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Isla Vista Lawyer
140 East Figueroa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP
228 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
The 805 Legal Team
701 E Santa Clara St, Ventura, CA 93001

Disclaimer:  Consumers utilizing Expertise.com are free to communicate and contract with any lawyer they choose. Expertise.com is not involved in the confidential attorney-client relationship. Featured lawyers pay a reasonable advertising cost to market their legal services with Expertise.com and must meet similar selection criteria as other lawyers. All cases are different. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

FAQs

  • What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Santa Barbara, California?

    The non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Santa Barbara, California is 805-882-8900.

  • What are the things your lawyer can help you with during a DUI detention in Santa Barbara?

    A DUI lawyer in Santa Barbara can help you navigate the complex process of a DUI charge. A lawyer can explain your legal rights, advise you to remain silent, and not further escalate the situation. Evidence will be assessed properly to prepare a strong defense and assist you in making the right decisions.

  • What will happen to you if you drive a commercial truck while intoxicated in Santa Barbara?

    If you drive a commercial vehicle in Santa Barbara, you can be charged a DUI if you have a blood alcohol concentration of 0.04% or higher. If you are proven guilty, you can be penalized with six months of imprisonment and five years of probation. You may have to pay a fine of $1000 plus attend an alcohol education program.

  • If you were caught high from marijuana while driving in Santa Barbara, what are the penalties?

    If you were caught driving under the influence of marijuana in Santa Barbara, penalties are similar to driving under the influence of alcohol. You can be penalized with a prison sentence of one year and fines up to $1000. You will also be mandated to attend DUI school and a license suspension of six months.

  • Will you be charged with a felony DUI if you have been convicted four times in the last 10 years in Santa Barbara?

    Yes, you will be charged with a felony DUI if you have been previously convicted of a DUI in the last 10 years in Santa Barbara. You will also have your license revoked and may face a fine of $2000 with a minimum of six months imprisonment up to three years.

  • Will a DUI conviction stay on your record forever in Santa Barbara?

    No, a DUI conviction in Santa Barbara will only stay on your record for 10 years. It may be verified by employers and might have an impact on your job application, particularly if the position requires driving. If you plan to join the military, it may also play a role in whether or not you are approved.

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