15 Questions to Ask a San Diego DUI Defense Attorney

How to Use This List: Bring these questions to your free consultation with a San Diego DUI Defense attorney. Take notes on the answers — they'll help you compare attorneys and make an informed hiring decision.

15 Questions to Ask a San Diego DUI Defense Attorney

1Are you licensed by the California State Bar and in good standing?

Any attorney you hire must be licensed. Verify at calbar.ca.gov before the meeting. Disciplinary history is also listed there.

2How many DUI cases have you handled in San Diego County?

Look for an attorney who regularly practices in San Diego Superior Court and is familiar with local judges and DAs.

3Will you handle my DMV APS hearing, and is that included in your fee?

The DMV hearing is separate from the criminal case and must be requested within 10 days. Many attorneys charge separately — clarify upfront.

4What is your flat fee and what does it include?

DUI fees should include arraignment, DMV hearing, pre-trial motions, and court appearances through resolution. Trial is often extra — confirm.

5Have you handled cases with my specific BAC level and circumstances?

An attorney who has handled many cases at your BAC level and with your specific facts (high BAC, accident, drug DUI) will know the realistic outcomes.

6What is your strategy for my specific case?

A good attorney will identify potential suppression issues (unlawful stop, breathalyzer problems) and explain their approach. Generic answers are a red flag.

7What are the realistic outcomes for my case?

Be wary of guarantees. A good attorney will give you a range: dismissal, wet reckless, guilty plea to DUI, or trial — with honest assessment of each.

8Will you appear at all court dates or will a different attorney cover some hearings?

Some firms send associates to routine hearings. Know who will represent you at each stage.

9How quickly can you contact the DMV to request my APS hearing?

This must happen within 10 days of arrest. An attorney who can act immediately is essential for preserving your license.

10What do you know about breathalyzer calibration challenges in San Diego?

The EC/IR II is the standard device in San Diego. An experienced DUI attorney will know the specific maintenance records to request.

11Have you won any DMV APS hearings in the past year?

DMV hearing success rates are real — ask for examples. Winning the DMV hearing preserves your driving privilege regardless of the criminal outcome.

12What is your experience with drug DUI or DUI refusal cases?

These cases involve different challenges (DUID toxicology, Drug Recognition Evaluator testimony, chemical test refusal enhancements).

13Can you explain what a PC §1538.5 suppression motion is and whether it applies to my case?

A good DUI attorney should be able to immediately identify whether an illegal stop, search, or arrest procedure occurred and whether a suppression motion is viable.

14What is your availability? Will you answer my calls?

DUI cases move quickly — 10-day DMV deadline, arraignment within 48 hours. Responsiveness matters.

15Do you have any references or reviews I can check?

Ask for client reviews, check Avvo, Google, and the State Bar. Past clients' experiences give you insight into the attorney's performance.

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