Los Angeles Drunk Driving Defense Attorneys

Are You in Need of a DUI Attorney in Los Angeles?

Facing a drunk driving charge in Los Angeles isn’t just a traffic matter; it’s a serious criminal offense with the potential to derail your career, reputation, and freedom. From the moment you're pulled over, every word you say and action you take can impact the outcome of your case.

At Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, we don’t just represent clients; we defend your future. Our legal team has handled some of the most high-profile and complex DUI cases in California. Whether you’re dealing with a first-time misdemeanor DUI or a felony involving injury or prior convictions, we bring the full strength of our firm to bear on your defense.

Why Choose Us: DUI Lawyers in Los Angeles

At Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, we are known for defending people accused of serious crimes and delivering results.

• Led by Former Prosecutors: We know how the other side builds DUI cases.
• Decades of Trial Experience: We bring extensive preparation and courtroom strength to every DUI case we take on.
• Elite Legal Team: You get the full force of an entire defense firm instead of a solo practitioner juggling several cases.
• Trusted by High-Profile Clients: Executives, public figures, and professionals turn to us when their careers and reputations are on the line.
• Aggressive DUI Defense Strategy: We strategically challenge every element of your case, from the traffic stop to the chemical test.
• Recognition and Respect in LA Courts: Our firm has earned the regard of judges and prosecutors across Los Angeles.
• Top-Rated by Legal Industry Peers: We’ve been recognized by Super Lawyers, Martindale-Hubbell (AV Preeminent), and other respected legal rankings.
• We Handle Felony and Complex DUI Cases: Including DUIs with injury, charges involving minors, and clients with prior convictions.

Accused of DUI in Los Angeles?

Put one of California’s most formidable criminal defense teams on your side.

Call Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP at (213) 688-0460 today.

Don’t Wait to Speak to an Attorney

Time is critical in DUI cases. The moment you're arrested, the clock starts ticking on your legal rights. You have only 10 days from the date of your arrest to request a DMV hearing to challenge the suspension of your license. Miss that window, and you could lose your license automatically, regardless of what happens in court.

You also face deadlines for filing motions, preserving evidence (like dashcam footage or breathalyzer calibration records), and preparing for arraignment. Every day you wait gives the prosecution more of a head start.

The earlier you involve our firm, the more options you’ll have. We can:

• Intervene before charges are filed
• Challenge the DMV suspension
• Collect time-sensitive evidence
• Begin developing your legal strategy
• Reduce your stress by handling communication with law enforcement and prosecutors

Do not talk to police or investigators without legal counsel. Protect your rights and contact us immediately.

What Constitutes a DUI in California?

Driving under the influence (DUI) takes place when a person operates a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This is measured, at least when it comes to alcohol, by a driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC). In the case of drugs, it is more subjective, and charges may be filed due to a saliva drug swab test and field sobriety tests.

In general, anyone 21 years or older is considered intoxicated with a BAC of .08% or higher. However, if you are operating a commercial vehicle, legally drunk is .04% or higher, while a person under 21 is considered intoxicated with a BAC of .01% or higher. California’s DUI laws include medications, even legally prescribed ones or over-the-counter medications. It’s illegal to drive if you are impaired by any sort of medication or illegal drugs.

The tests used for measuring a person’s BAC or level of intoxication are not always precise. In many instances, cases have been thrown out of court after it was discovered the police had not adequately inspected or properly administered a breathalyzer test. An experienced LA defense attorney can help ensure you do not become a victim of injustice due to an error in testing or failure on the part of the police to follow standard procedures.

Felony DUI and Aggravating Factors

While most DUIs in California are charged as misdemeanors, certain circumstances elevate the offense to a felony:

• Fourth DUI within 10 years
• DUI causing injury or death
• DUI with a prior felony DUI conviction
• Driving under the influence with a minor passenger

Felony DUI charges carry severe consequences, including state prison time, extended license suspension, and a lifetime criminal record. If your case involves any of these aggravating factors, you need a firm known for handling high-stakes criminal litigation.

That’s where Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP comes in. We know how to handle complex DUI cases with media attention, professional licensing consequences, and potential career-ending outcomes. We bring the same energy and skill to every client, regardless of their public profile.

We Handle All Types of DUI-Related Charges

• First-time DUI
• Second or third DUI offense
• Felony DUI
• DUI with injury
• DUI with child endangerment
• Refusal to test
• Underage DUI (Zero Tolerance)
• Drug DUI (prescription or illegal substances)
• Commercial driver DUI
• DUI involving accident or property damage
• DMV hearings and license reinstatement

We are not a volume practice. We don’t shuffle clients off to junior associates or push you into plea deals. Our firm is selective—so we can give each case the attention, precision, and firepower it deserves.

Defending Against a DUI

Going into a trial without a defense ready is the fastest way to ensure that you lose your license, have to pay a high fine, and get stuck behind bars for an extended period of time. Thankfully, there are some strong defenses that you can implement during your trial and your administrative hearing.

Illegal Traffic Stop

Law enforcement must have reasonable suspicion to pull you over. If the stop was unlawful, all evidence gathered afterward may be inadmissible.

Inaccurate Breath or Blood Test

Breathalyzers must be properly calibrated and administered. Blood samples must be collected, stored, and tested following strict protocols. Any deviation can lead to flawed results.

Medical Conditions

Certain health issues or diets can mimic signs of intoxication or produce false BAC readings.

Officer Error

Police officers must follow specific procedures during DUI investigations. Mistakes in the field sobriety tests, arrests, or paperwork can be grounds for dismissal.

No Probable Cause for Arrest

Even if the stop was legal, the officer must still establish probable cause to arrest you. If that standard wasn’t met, we can challenge the arrest itself.

Violation of Rights

Were you read your Miranda rights? Were you given the option of a blood or breath test? Were you denied access to counsel? Constitutional violations can undermine the entire case.

Talk to a Trusted DUI Defense Lawyer in Los Angeles

If you’re facing DUI charges in Los Angeles, you cannot afford to go unrepresented. The justice system will not look out for your rights. But we will.

At Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, we fight smart and we fight hard. With decades of experience and a track record of favorable outcomes, we know how to dismantle DUI cases piece by piece.

Call (213) 688-0460 to sign on with a winning team.

Drugged Driving: Prescription Drugs, Illegal Narcotics, and Marijuana

Driving under the influence of drugs (DUID) carries the same penalties as a DUI, and the two crimes are generally considered synonymous. The law is defined in two sections of the California Vehicle Code:

In California, drugs are defined as any substance other than alcohol that has a serious effect on your nervous system and muscles. In other words, it’s a drug if it impairs your ability to think, react, and drive. There’s no distinction between legal or illegal drugs in this case, and you can be charged with a DUID if you are driving while affected by:

• Over-the-counter medications
• Marijuana
• Illegal drugs and narcotics (methamphetamine, cocaine, etc.)
• Legally prescribed medications, including antidepressants, pain medications, sleep meds, etc.

What Are the Penalties for DUI in California?

In California, DUI penalties vary depending on whether it’s a first offense, a repeat offense, or involves aggravating factors like injury to another person.

First DUI (Misdemeanor)

• Up to 6 months in jail
• Fines between $390 and $1,000, plus penalty assessments
• 6-month license suspension
• DUI education program (3 to 9 months)
• Possible ignition interlock device (IID) requirement

Second DUI (Within 10 Years)

• 96 hours to 1 year in jail
• 2-year license suspension
• 18 to 30 months of DUI school
• IID required for up to 1 year

Third DUI (Within 10 Years)

• 120 days to 1 year in jail
• 3-year license revocation
• 30 months of DUI education
• Designation as a habitual traffic offender

Misdemeanor DUI with injury:

• Up to 1 year in jail, fines up to $5,000, and restitution to victims

Felony DUI with injury:

• Driver’s license suspension for 1 to 5 years
• Felony strike under California’s Three Strikes Law, if serious injury occurred
• 16 months to 4 years in state prison, with additional time for each person injured

What Clients Are Saying About Us

You can't go wrong with Kelly and her firm - Joseph W. (5-Star Avvo Review)

Kelly and her firm handled a DUI for me and a more, unflattering case several years later. Both were handled with professionalism and, most importantly, good outcomes relative to the facts of the case. Believe me, when you are facing serious time, as I was, you want to know that your attorney(s) are fighting for you AND are responsive to you. Kelly is brainiac, a certified criminal law appellate specialist, and she fits into a very unique niche in criminal law. When you hire her, you get something that perhaps no other criminal defense lawyer can offer: legal research and writer that is as good as it gets. You can't go wrong with Kelly and her firm.

I would trust them with my life -JoAnn G. (5-Star Yelp Review)

They're amazing [with] integrity [and] accessibility. They truly saved the life of someone I know. I recommend them beyond all. I would trust them with my life.

Case Results

Case 1

A Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP attorney's client was arrested and charged with a second lifetime DUI offense in San Bernardino County. He was facing up to a year in county jail, thousands of dollars in fines and court fees, and a one-year license suspension. After months of negotiations, the San Bernardino District Attorney’s Office agreed to reduce the charge to a first-offense DUI and the client was sentenced to probation.

Case 2

The case involved a young, pregnant mother struggling with postpartum depression and alcoholism, who lost control of her car with her 1-year-old child inside, resulting in a rollover accident. She was arrested for DUI with a high BAC and felony child endangerment. The attorney facilitated her entry into a residential treatment center for addiction, where she received both individual and group counseling. Successfully negotiating with the Orange County District Attorney's Office, the attorney secured the client’s participation in a one-year diversion program. Should she remain alcohol-free and crime-free for that period, the charges of felony child endangerment and DUI enhancement will be dismissed.

Contact a Trusted DUI Attorney in Los Angeles

Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP has experience handling cases that range from simple misdemeanor drunk driving to charges of felony DUI, vehicular manslaughter, and gross vehicular manslaughter.

Call (213) 688-0460 to learn more today.

DUI Frequently Asked Questions

Is a DUI in California a criminal offense?

Yes. In California, a DUI is a criminal charge, not just a traffic violation. Even a first-time DUI is a misdemeanor that can lead to jail time, fines, license suspension, and a permanent criminal record. Felony charges apply if you have prior convictions, caused injury, or refused to test.

Do I need a lawyer for my first DUI?

Absolutely. Prosecutors pursue DUI convictions aggressively—even for first offenses. A conviction can impact your job, license, insurance, and future opportunities. Our attorneys are often able to challenge the evidence, negotiate reduced charges, or get cases dismissed entirely.

What happens if I refused a breath or blood test?

Refusing a chemical test after a lawful arrest triggers automatic license suspension under California's "implied consent" law. It can also be used against you in court. However, we may be able to challenge the legality of the stop or arrest itself to fight the refusal charge.

Will I lose my license after a DUI arrest?

You have 10 days from the date of arrest to request a DMV hearing to contest your license suspension. If you miss that window, your license could be suspended automatically, even if you win your criminal case. We handle DMV hearings as part of your overall defense strategy.

Can I beat a DUI charge if I failed the breathalyzer?

Maybe. Breathalyzer results are not infallible. Factors like improper calibration, operator error, medical conditions, or diet can affect results. We investigate every aspect of the test to uncover flaws that may lead to reduced or dismissed charges.

Can I be charged with DUI if I was taking prescription medication?

Yes. Driving under the influence of any substance that impairs your ability to drive, including legally prescribed medications, can result in DUI charges. These cases are often defensible, especially if there was no warning that the medication could impair driving.

Will a DUI conviction affect my professional license or background check?

It might. A DUI appears on your criminal record, which can impact professional licenses (for doctors, lawyers, pilots, nurses, etc.), security clearances, and employment background checks. Our goal is always to protect your record and reputation.

Meet Our Attorneys

Mark J. Werksman

Mark J. Werksman is one of California’s most formidable criminal defense attorneys, known for his tenacity in the courtroom, strategic precision, and unwavering commitment to defending the rights and reputations of his clients. As the founding partner of Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, he has built a powerhouse criminal defense firm recognized for its high-profile victories and exceptional advocacy in state and federal courts.

A former Deputy District Attorney and Assistant United States Attorney, Mark brings over 35 years of trial experience to every case. His insider perspective on how prosecutors build their cases gives his clients a distinct advantage, especially in matters involving complex legal issues, serious felony charges, and significant public scrutiny.

Mark has represented clients in a wide range of high-stakes criminal matters, including white collar offenses, sex crimes, violent felonies, drug charges, and DUI, often securing dismissals, acquittals, or significantly reduced charges. His clientele includes professionals, executives, public figures, and others whose careers and reputations are on the line.

Mark Werksman is a relentless advocate who believes every client deserves a fearless defense, no matter the charge, no matter the odds.

Alan Jackson

Alan Jackson is a nationally recognized trial attorney and partner at Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, where he focuses exclusively on high-stakes criminal defense. A former Assistant Head Deputy of the Major Crimes Division in the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, Alan brings unmatched trial experience, strategic command, and courtroom presence to every case.

Over his decades-long legal career, Alan has tried more than 80 jury trials to verdict, including many high-profile and complex criminal cases. He previously led the prosecution in some of Los Angeles' most notable trials before transitioning to defense, where he now defends clients facing serious felony charges, including murder, sexual assault, white collar crimes, drug offenses, and DUI.

Kelly Quinn

Kelly Quinn is a respected criminal defense attorney and partner at Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, known for her appellate precision, legal scholarship, and relentless advocacy. She is a Certified Specialist in Criminal Law by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization, a distinction held by only a small percentage of attorneys in the state.

Kelly brings a unique strength to the firm’s criminal practice: mastery of writs, appeals, and post-conviction litigation. Her work often determines the course of complex cases, where constitutional issues, evidentiary rulings, and legal strategy intersect. Whether challenging convictions or safeguarding victories at trial, she delivers deep legal insight and exceptional written advocacy.

Over her career, Kelly has successfully briefed and argued cases before the California Courts of Appeal and the California Supreme Court, helping shape the interpretation of criminal law statewide. Her work is meticulous, persuasive, and informed by a deep commitment to justice.

Additional Information

• AI-Powered Cameras in LA: Are DUI Arrests Going High-Tech?
• Smart Breathalyzers in LA: Could AI Change How DUIs Are Handled?
• Are AI Dashcams the Next DUI Witness in Los Angeles?
• Could AI Replace Field Sobriety Tests in California?
• How AI Can Help Fight a DUI Charge in Los Angeles
• Vehicle Code 23152 - California Legislative Information