DUI Lawyer Orange County
Highly Rated DUI Defense Attorney
The Law Office of Richard Wagner helps clients fight DUI charges and protect their future. The Law Office Of Richard Wagner Over 27 Years of DUI and Criminal Defense Experience
Former DUI Prosecuto
Highly Rated and Reviewed by Clients
Proven Track Record Defending DUI Cases
Talk To A DUI Lawyer Now
OC DUI Defense Lawyer
Highly Rated and Reviewed
The Law Office of Richard Wagner can help you achieve the best possible outcome for your situation. The Law Office Of Richard Wagner Arrests
Hit & Run Improper Searches
Pre Trial Hearings Vehicular Manslaughter Expungements Talk To A DUI Lawyer Now
Orange County DUI Lawyer
Highly Rated and Reviewed
The Law Office of Richard Wagner can help you achieve the best possible outcome for your situation. The Law Office Of Richard Wagner Over 27 Years of Criminal & DUI Defense Experience
Former DUI Prosecutor
Proven Track Record Defending DUI Charges
Highly Rated by Clients
Dedicated DUI Defense Lawyer
Talk To A DUI Lawyer Now
Richard Wagner – DUI Lawyer Orange County2026-04-13T10:50:57-07:00

DUI Lawyer in Orange County

Former DUI Prosecutor Focused on DUI Defense Serving Orange County, Los Angeles, Riverside & San Bernardino Counties.

Charged With a DUI in Orange County? Take Action Now!

As a leading former DUI prosecutor and experienced DUI Lawyer in Orange County, Richard Wagner will aggressively defend your 1st, 2nd, 3rd, or 4th DUI defense from drug and prescription DUIs to THC and felony DUI charges.

If you were arrested for DUI, working with a trusted Criminal Defense lawyer can make a critical difference in protecting your license and your future.

He represents clients facing first-time, second, and felony DUI charges in courts throughout the county.

You have only 10 days to request a DMV hearing after a DUI arrest.

Richard Wagner DUI Lawyer in Orange County

Speak With a DUI Lawyer Now

Arrested For DUI In Orange County? Speak With A DUI Lawyer Today

You only have 10 days to request a DMV hearing after a DUI arrest.
Speak directly with Richard Wagner today.

Call Now: (714) 721-4423

Free Consultation Available • Former DUI Prosecutor • 27+ Years Experience

DUI Lawyer Orange County – Courtroom Defense

Why Choose Richard Wagner as Your DUI Lawyer in Orange County?

  • Former DUI Prosecutor Who Understands How Cases Are Built
  • Over 27 Years of DUI and Criminal Defense Experience
  • Highly Rated and Reviewed by Clients
  • Strategic Defense for First-Time and Repeat DUI Charges
  • Serving Irvine and Courts Throughout Orange County

DUI Defense Services in Orange County

The mission Is To Work With Each Client’s Unique Situation

Richard Wagner is easy to reach and returns calls and emails promptly. He uses a secure, double-encrypted online case management system that allows clients to stay informed about their cases and access their files 24/7.

The Law Office of Richard Wagner, A Professional Corporation, stands by its solemn mission: to courageously represent the underdog, the excluded, and the marginalized. To right wrongs, speak truth to power, and stand up for and fight for people who have nobody in their corner.

As an OC Criminal Lawyer, Richard Wagner carries out this mission with integrity, persistence, and respect for each client’s individual situation. Recognized by Super Lawyers and AVVO, he brings years of experience defending DUI arrests throughout Orange County, including Irvine, Newport Beach, Anaheim, and surrounding communities.

To learn how Richard Wagner Compares to Top Attorneys ” Best DUI Lawyer Orange County (2026) “.

Orange County Criminal Lawyer Richard Wagner

Beyond 5 Stars

Richard Wagner expert drunk driving lawyer upholds and defends freedoms and liberties enshrined in our United States and California Constitutions.

The Law Office of Richard Wagner, A Professional Corporation, stands by its solemn mission: to courageously represent the underdog, the excluded, and the marginalized with years of experience defending DUI arrests in Orange County. To right wrongs, speak truth to power, and stand up for and fight for people who have nobody in their corner.

Orange County DUI Attorney

California DUI Lawyers Association

American Bar Association

Independent Defense Counsel Office

Orange County Bar Association

National College for DUI Defense

courtroom representing Top-Rated Orange County Criminal Lawyer

Recognized by Super Lawyers one of the Top-Rated DUI Lawyers in Orange County

OC DUI Courts We Handle

Richard Wagner represents clients facing DUI charges throughout Orange County, including cases filed in:

What Happens After a DUI Arrest in California?

After a DUI arrest in California, drivers usually face two proceedings:

  • A criminal court case and a DMV administrative license suspension hearing.
  • Drivers typically have only 10 days to request a DMV hearing.
  • Early legal representation can significantly affect the outcome of both cases.
  • The criminal case is handled in the Orange County Superior Court.
  • The DMV hearing determines whether your driver’s license will be suspended.

Learn about the California DUI 10-Day Rule.

Orange County Criminal Lawyer – Richard Wagner Law – DUI Victories

“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood …”

CLIENT: A.A.
COURTHOUSE: CENTRAL JUSTICE CENTER – SANTA ANA
CHARGES: DUI (.09 BLOOD) ACCIDENT
FINAL RESULT: DUI DISMISSED. REDUCED TO WET RECKLESS (DMV SUSPENSION OVERTURNED).

CLIENT: A.A.
COURTHOUSE: CENTRAL JUSTICE CENTER – SANTA ANA
CHARGES: DUI (.09 BLOOD) ACCIDENT
FINAL RESULT: DUI DISMISSED. REDUCED TO WET RECKLESS (DMV SUSPENSION OVERTURNED).

CLIENT: A.A.
COURTHOUSE: CENTRAL JUSTICE CENTER – SANTA ANA
CHARGES: DUI (.09 BLOOD) ACCIDENT
FINAL RESULT: DUI DISMISSED. REDUCED TO WET RECKLESS (DMV SUSPENSION OVERTURNED).

CLIENT: A.A.
COURTHOUSE: CENTRAL JUSTICE CENTER – SANTA ANA
CHARGES: DUI (.09 BLOOD) ACCIDENT
FINAL RESULT: DUI DISMISSED. REDUCED TO WET RECKLESS (DMV SUSPENSION OVERTURNED).

Google Client Reviews

Clients throughout Orange County trust Richard Wagner to defend them in DUI cases. As a former prosecutor in Los Angeles, he understands how DUI charges are investigated and prosecuted and works diligently to protect the rights of every client he represents.

He understands the type of evidence prosecutors rely on to file charges and how DUI cases are built in court. That experience allows him to carefully evaluate the facts of each case and identify weaknesses that may help protect his clients.

If you have been arrested for misdemeanor or felony driving under the influence in Orange County, it is important to have a trusted DUI lawyer in Irvine on your side who understands both sides of the courtroom.

If you have questions about your DUI arrest, you do not have to face the process alone.

You deserve a lawyer who works tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family. Call: (714) 721-4423
today. Read about DUI vs. Wet Reckless.

Richard Wagner is a dedicated DUI defense attorney known for his commitment to his clients and his deep understanding of DUI law. Many clients consider him one of the best DUI lawyers in Orange County because of his experience, communication, and focus on achieving the strongest possible defense.

Richard Gave Me Peace Of Mind!, V.V., CA

“He really helped me out with my DUI case and answered any questions I had or needed to be answered and gave me peace of mind!”

– V.V.

Thank You Richard 10/10, B.C., CA

“I needed a lawyer who could help my case who is knowledgeable in the field, affordable, and can explain things to me simple. Richard saved me time and appeared on my behalf, filed paperwork, and He & His team were very accessible when I had questions! I had missed a deadline which I needed to request an extension in person – Richard was able to help me by showing up in person, filing the extension and I was out the building in 5 minutes.”

– B.C.

It’s All Thanks To DUI Lawyer Orange County Richard Wagner, J.M.L., CA

“In 1994, when I first immigrated to the U.S., I was having a drink. I was involved in a violent incident and hired a lawyer, but I suffered a lot and lost a lot of money because the case was handled incorrectly. After that, I distrusted lawyers. But this case made me respect lawyers. It’s all thanks to Richard Wagner. He handled the case diligently and accurately. Thank you again.”

– J.M.L., CA

I Would Give More Stars To Richard, I would, D.M., CA

“If I could give Richard Wagner more stars, I would. He was professional and honest from the start. I did not feel pressured once, rather heard. He was timely and efficient and I got the outcome in Court that I was promised. Really appreciative of how promptly he handled my case. A big thank you to him and his staff!!”

– D.M., CA

Richard Wagner Law – FAQ’s

Drivers arrested for DUI often have urgent questions about their driver’s license, court case, and potential penalties. Below are answers to some of the most important questions people ask when searching for a DUI lawyer in Orange County.

If you were arrested for DUI in Orange County, it is critical to act immediately. Write down everything you remember about the traffic stop and arrest, keep all paperwork, and avoid discussing your case with anyone other than your attorney. In most California DUI cases, you have only 10 days to request a DMV hearing to challenge the automatic suspension of your driver’s license. Learn more about the California DUI 10-day rule and DMV hearings in DUI cases.

You have only 10 days from the date of your arrest to request a DMV administrative hearing. If you miss this deadline, your license may be automatically suspended. This DMV process is separate from your criminal court case. Acting quickly allows a DUI lawyer to preserve your driving privileges and begin building your defense. Learn more about the 10-day DUI deadline.

DUI penalties in California increase with each conviction. A first DUI may include fines, probation, DUI education programs, and a license suspension. Second and third offenses can result in longer suspensions, mandatory ignition interlock devices, and possible jail time. Factors such as high BAC levels, refusal allegations, or accidents can significantly increase penalties. Learn more about first, second, and third DUI penalties.

Yes. Many DUI cases involve weaknesses in the evidence. Issues such as unlawful traffic stops, unreliable breath testing, improper police procedures, and errors in blood analysis may allow a case to be reduced or dismissed. A careful legal review can uncover these issues and create leverage in negotiations or trial. Learn more about Title 17 DUI testing requirements and motions to dismiss.

Most DUI charges are misdemeanors, especially for first-time offenses. However, a DUI may be charged as a felony if it involves injury to another person, multiple prior DUI convictions, or a prior felony DUI. Felony DUI cases can carry severe penalties, including state prison and long-term license consequences. Learn more about felony DUI charges.

The cost of a DUI lawyer in Orange County depends on the complexity of the case, the attorney’s experience, and whether the case goes to trial. First-time misdemeanor DUI cases may range from several thousand dollars, while more complex cases involving injuries, prior offenses, or expert witnesses can be significantly higher. The quality of your defense can directly impact your license, record, and future. Learn more about DUI lawyer costs in Orange County.

Orange County is known for aggressively prosecuting DUI cases. Local prosecutors and judges take a strict approach, making experienced representation essential. A DUI lawyer familiar with Orange County courts understands how cases are handled locally, how evidence is challenged, and how to build an effective defense strategy. Learn more about DUI defense in Orange County.

Orange County DWI Lawyer Richard Wagner

Former DUI Prosecutor Richard Wagner brings years of experience defending DUI arrests throughout Orange County. As an experienced OC DUI lawyer, he works with expert witnesses, leading consultants, and front-line private investigators to deliver a powerful defense.

For over two and a half decades, Richard Wagner has successfully handled thousands of Southern California criminal defense and DUI cases, resulting in excellent results for clients, including not-guilty verdicts, acquittals, dismissals, and reductions of charges.

As an Orange County Drunk Driving Lawyer and Criminal Defense Attorney in Irvine residents trust, he provides dedicated representation with proven strategies tailored to each case.

If you’re facing DUI charges in Orange County, Richard Wagner is a DUI attorney in Irvine, California who offers a free consultation to help you understand your options without any upfront cost. Whether you’re dealing with a first-time DUI or a more serious case requiring a felony DUI lawyer, he has the experience and commitment to protect your rights. He can also advise you on concerns such as how a DUI may affect your employment, helping you make informed decisions as your case moves forward.

Richard Wagner Will Fight For You

Priority #1: Zealous Advocacy – Protection Of Your Constitutional Rights

The Law Office of Richard Wagner, A Professional Corporation, has enjoyed years of success defending clients in criminal cases, including: Battery on Police Officer, Battery Against A Spouse, Bench Warrants, Burglary, Disturbing the Peace, Disorderly Conduct, Domestic Violence, Driving on a Suspended License, DUI, Expungements, Forgery, Grand Theft,  Hit and Run, Indecent Misdemeanors, Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated Without Gross Negligence, Violation of Protective Order. Richard Wagner is the best drunk driving defense attorney in the Orange County.

Including your Constitutional Right:

  • to be represented by a California criminal defense attorney throughout all stages of the proceedings,

  • to produce evidence and witnesses on your own behalf,

  • against self-incrimination,

  • to testify on your own behalf,

  • to confront and cross-examine witnesses,

  • to a jury trial, where you would be presumed innocent, and could not be convicted unless 12 impartial jurors were convinced of your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Speak With a DUI Lawyer Now

Call For A Free Consultation

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