DUI Defense Lawyer in Santa Rosa, Sonoma County, and the Bay Area

Arrested for DUI in Sonoma County? Protect Your Record, License, and Future.

A DUI charge in California doesn’t just threaten your license—it can derail your job, your insurance, and your criminal record for years to come. But a charge isn’t a conviction—and with the right legal defense, there’s a path forward.


At Applegate Law Office, we provide aggressive, strategic DUI defense for clients across Santa Rosa and Sonoma County. With over 20 years of courtroom experience and a background as a former prosecutor, attorney Charles Applegate knows how DUI cases are built—and how to break them apart. No upfront costs. No judgment. Just clear legal advice and immediate DUI defense from a trusted Santa Rosa DUI attorney.

Types of DUI Charges We Handle

We represent people in all stages and types of drunk and drugged driving charges throughout Santa Rosa, including:

First-Time DUI Charges

Even a first DUI offense can lead to serious consequences. We explore all options for dismissal, reduction, or diversion.

Repeat DUI Offenses

With enhanced penalties at stake, we fight aggressively to challenge evidence and minimize long-term damage.

High BAC DUI (0.15% or higher)

We scrutinize every step of testing—from machine calibration to sample handling.

Refusal to Submit to Testing

Refusing a breath or blood test can trigger automatic license suspension. We challenge the stop, the advisement, and procedural errors.

DUI Causing Injury or Property Dama

These cases may be filed as felonies. Our experience in DUI with injury defense can make the difference.

Underage DUI (Zero Tolerance Law)

Drivers under 21 face strict rules and immediate penalties. We help protect your record and academic or career future.

Drug DUI (Prescription or Controlled Substances)

DUI doesn’t just mean alcohol. We defend clients accused of driving under the influence of marijuana, painkillers, sleep aids, or other legal/illegal substances.

How We Defend Your DUI Case

Every case is different—but our process is proven:

01

Free Case Evaluation

We listen carefully, review the arrest details, and explain your legal options.

02

DMV Hearing Representation

You have just 10 days from arrest to fight your license suspension. We handle the DMV hearing process and appear on your behalf.

03

Evidence Review & Strategy Development

We examine all evidence: field sobriety tests, probable cause for the stop, officer body cam footage, breathalyzer reliability, lab errors, and more.

04

Negotiation or Trial

Whether pursuing charge reductions or mounting a full trial defense, we build your case with precision—and fight for your future.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Will I automatically lose my license after a DUI arrest?

    Not necessarily. You must request a DMV hearing within 10 days. We handle this process and fight to keep your license.

  • What if I failed the breath or blood test?

    Even failed tests aren’t always valid. We challenge the science, the testing process, and officer training to suppress unreliable results.

  • Is the consultation really free?

    Yes. Your initial consultation is free, private, and pressure-free. We’ll walk you through what to expect—and what we can do to help.

Why Hire Applegate Law Office?

  • 20+ years of criminal and DUI defense experience


  • Former prosecutor who knows the system from both sides


  • Local knowledge of Sonoma County courts and judges


  • Direct attorney access from start to finish


  • Clear pricing and flexible representation for every type of DUI charge

Let’s Talk It Through

Being arrested for DUI doesn’t make you guilty—and it doesn’t have to define your life. We offer trusted, experienced DUI defense in Santa Rosa and throughout Sonoma County. If you’ve been charged, your next move matters. Call now to schedule consultation with a DUI lawyer in Santa Rosa, CA. You deserve a fair defense—and we’ll fight to deliver it.

Call 707‑806‑0163