The Law Office of Richard Wagner, A Professional Corporation, has enjoyed years of success defending felony DUI defense clients in criminal cases and we are ready to help you.
DUI & Criminal Defense Legal Services in Orange County
When you’re facing a DUI or criminal charge in California, the right legal strategy can determine whether you walk away with reduced penalties, a dismissal, or a life-changing conviction. With over 27 years of experience and a background as a former DUI prosecutor, Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney Richard Wagner provides a full range of DUI, BUI, and criminal defense services tailored to protect your license, your freedom, and your future. Whether this is your first arrest or you are dealing with a serious felony allegation, you’ll receive knowledgeable, aggressive, and personalized representation from a top-rated Southern California defense lawyer.
Practice Areas We Handle (partial list)
If this is your first time being arrested for driving under the influence in California, the outcome can impact your job, license, and record. Attorney Wagner can often reduce or dismiss the charges, even in high-BAC or accident cases.
Repeat DUI charges carry harsher penalties, including longer license suspensions and possible jail time. Richard Wagner leverages his experience as a former prosecutor to build strong defenses and mitigate repeat-offender consequences.
A third DUI within 10 years is a serious offense, often charged as a felony. Richard Wagner provides aggressive defense strategies to avoid mandatory jail, license revocation, and long-term criminal penalties.
Accused of driving under the influence of prescription medications, cannabis, or other controlled substances? DUID charges are complex and often lack scientific clarity. Attorney Wagner knows how to challenge toxicology results and field sobriety interpretations.
California legalized marijuana—but driving under its influence is still a crime. These charges often rely on weak observational evidence. Richard Wagner knows how to fight marijuana DUI cases using scientific, legal, and constitutional defenses.
If your DUI arrest involved leaving the scene of an accident, your penalties may be significantly enhanced. Attorney Wagner can help mitigate the damage and work to reduce the charges.
Felony DUI charges—especially those involving bodily injury—can lead to prison, high fines, and permanent criminal records. Richard Wagner has a track record of defending clients against VC §23153 and related felony offenses.
A wet reckless conviction is often a better outcome than a full DUI. Richard Wagner fights to get charges reduced and protect your license, reputation, and freedom.
If you or your child is under 21 and facing DUI charges under California’s Zero Tolerance Law, penalties can be severe. Attorney Wagner helps protect the futures of young adults and fights for license retention.
A Boating Under the Influence (BUI)
A Boating Under the Influence (BUI) arrest in Orange County can be overwhelming, but former DUI prosecutor Richard Wagner has extensive experience defending clients in BUI cases involving recreational boats, jet skis, sailboats, and other watercraft throughout California.
In rare cases, DUI causing death may be charged as murder under the “Watson” doctrine. This is among the most serious DUI-related crimes in California. Richard Wagner provides an aggressive, trial-tested defense for those facing vehicular homicide or Watson murder charges.
Field sobriety tests are notoriously unreliable and often improperly administered. Wagner can challenge the results and procedures to weaken the prosecution’s case.
Reckless Driving (Dry Reckless)
Reckless driving charges and DUI reductions to dry reckless can have long-term consequences. Learn more about your options and how Wagner can reduce penalties and avoid license suspension.
If your DUI arrest involved a fatal accident, you may be charged with vehicular manslaughter. These cases demand expert legal strategy, aggressive advocacy, and deep knowledge of vehicular crime law. Wagner delivers all three.
If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights—whether by stopping you without probable cause, conducting an unlawful search, or failing to read your Miranda rights—Attorney Wagner will file the necessary motions to suppress evidence and potentially dismiss your case.
Clearing a DUI conviction from your criminal record can improve job prospects and remove stigma. Wagner guides you through the expungement process and fights to clear your name.
Were you arrested but never convicted? You may be eligible to seal your record under California’s new record-cleaning laws. Richard Wagner helps restore your reputation and protect your privacy.
Why Clients Choose Richard Wagner
Most first DUI offenses are charged as misdemeanors under California Vehicle Code Section 23152. However, in certain circumstances—such as if your DUI caused injury to another person, or you have a prior felony DUI conviction—your first DUI can be charged as a felony.
- Over 27 years of Criminal & DUI Trial Experience
- Former DUI Prosecutor – Knows Both Sides of the Courtroom
- Named to 2025 Super Lawyers for DUI/DWI Defense
- 10.0 AVVO Rating, 5-Star Google & Yelp Reviews
- Personalized Strategy and Direct Access to Your Attorney
Contact The Law Office of Richard Wagner Today
You deserve clear answers, an aggressive defense, and a lawyer who treats your case with the attention it deserves. If you’ve been arrested for DUI or any related offense in Orange County, Inland Empire, or Los Angeles, don’t wait.
Call (714) 721-4423 today to schedule your FREE consultation, or fill out the online form to get started. Richard Wagner will discuss your case, explain your options, and help you determine your next best steps. The Law Office of Richard Wagner—Protecting Your Freedom, Fighting for Your Future.
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, Drug Charges, 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: