Richard Wagner, founder of Criminal Defense Strike Force and a former DUI prosecutor, has been selected to the 2026 Southern California Super Lawyers list. This peer-reviewed recognition highlights attorneys who demonstrate professional achievement and standing within the legal community.
Richard Wagner recognized in the 2026 Southern California Super Lawyers directory for DUI defense in Orange County.
Based in Irvine and representing clients throughout Orange County, Richard Wagner focuses exclusively on DUI and criminal defense matters, including first-time DUI, repeat offenses, felony DUI, high BAC enhancements, and DMV license suspension hearings.
Key Takeaway: Richard Wagner has been selected to the 2026 Southern California Super Lawyers list for DUI defense representation in Irvine and Orange County, California.
Official Super Lawyers Profiles
Richard Wagner and The Law Office of Richard Wagner, APC are both listed in the Super Lawyers directory:
• View Richard Wagner’s Super Lawyers Attorney Profile
• View The Law Office of Richard Wagner, APC Firm Profile
These profiles provide independent verification of licensure, practice areas, and recognition history.
What Is Southern California Super Lawyers?
Super Lawyers is a rating service of attorneys who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The patented selection process includes peer nominations, independent research, and professional evaluations. Only a limited percentage of attorneys are selected each year.
While recognition does not guarantee outcomes in any individual case, peer-reviewed distinctions reflect professional respect within the legal community.
DUI Defense Practice Areas in Orange County
As a DUI Lawyer Orange County clients turn to for focused defense representation, Richard Wagner evaluates each case with strategic attention to detail.
As a former DUI prosecutor, Richard Wagner understands how DUI cases are built — and how they can be challenged. His practice focuses exclusively on defending individuals accused of driving under the influence throughout Irvine and Orange County.
First-Time DUI Defense
A first DUI arrest in California may result in license suspension, fines, DUI education programs, probation, and potential jail exposure. Early legal evaluation is critical to protecting your license and future.
Second DUI Offense and Third DUI Offense
Repeat DUI charges carry enhanced penalties, longer DUI programs, ignition interlock requirements, and increased custody exposure under California law.
High BAC Enhancements
Blood alcohol concentrations of 0.15% or higher may trigger additional sentencing enhancements in Orange County courts, increasing potential penalties.
Felony DUI & DUI with Injury
DUI charges involving injury, prior convictions, or aggravating circumstances may be elevated to felony offenses, significantly increasing exposure to custody and long-term consequences.
DMV License Suspension Hearings (APS)
Administrative Per Se (APS) hearings are separate from criminal court proceedings and involve strict deadlines. These hearings determine whether your driving privileges will be suspended following a DUI arrest.
If you are searching for a DUI Lawyer Orange County drivers rely on for focused DUI defense, early case analysis is essential.
Serving Irvine and All of Orange County
Richard Wagner represents clients throughout:
- Irvine
- Newport Beach
- Costa Mesa
- Santa Ana
- Anaheim
- Mission Viejo
- Laguna Niguel
- And surrounding Orange County communities
The Law Office of Richard Wagner, APC is based in Irvine, California, and focuses exclusively on DUI and criminal defense representation.
Why Professional Recognition Matters in DUI Cases
DUI cases may involve both criminal prosecution and DMV administrative action. Potential consequences can include license suspension, mandatory alcohol programs, fines, probation, and possible jail exposure.
Recognition such as selection to the 2026 Southern California Super Lawyers list reflects professional standing among peers within the legal community. While awards do not determine case outcomes, experience and strategic evaluation can significantly affect how a case proceeds.
As a DUI Lawyer Orange County clients rely on for focused defense representation, Richard Wagner approaches each case with detailed analysis and strategic preparation from the outset.
Every DUI case requires careful review of:
- Legality of the traffic stop
- Field sobriety testing procedures
- Breath and blood testing accuracy
- Chemical testing compliance
- Arrest protocol and constitutional protections
Learn More About DUI Defense in Orange County
If you have been arrested for DUI in Irvine or anywhere in Orange County, speak with an experienced defense attorney as early as possible.
DUI Lawyer Orange County – Criminal Defense Strike Force
Call 714-721-4423 for a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Richard Wagner a Super Lawyer?
Yes. Richard Wagner was selected to the 2026 Southern California Super Lawyers list for DUI defense representation in Irvine and Orange County.
What does Super Lawyers recognition mean?
Super Lawyers selects attorneys through peer nomination, research, and evaluation processes recognizing professional achievement.
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