Business Details
41 Years
experience
Your Trusted DUI Defense Team in San Rafael
Paul Burglin has been a trusted name in DUI defense since 1985, representing over 7,000 clients across Northern California. Our founder, Paul Burglin, is one of only four attorneys in California board-certified in DUI defense by the American Bar Association. As Dean Emeritus of the National College for DUI Defense, he has shaped legal standards through his co-authorship of California Drunk Driving Law, now in its 21st edition. Our practice combines decades of courtroom experience with scientific expertise in chemical testing protocols, offering clients a unique advantage in complex DUI cases. We specialize in defending first-time and repeat DUI charges, professional license protection, and DMV administrative hearings.Our track record includes numerous not-guilty verdicts and reduced charges, supported by strategic use of expert witnesses and cutting-edge defense techniques. We serve clients throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, Napa Valley, and Wine Country regions, maintaining strong relationships with local courts and prosecutors. Our approach prioritizes personalized representation while maintaining strict adherence to ethical standards and professional transparency. With offices in San Rafael, Oakland, and Napa, we provide accessible legal counsel for both residents and out-of-state visitors facing DUI charges.
Services
DUI Defense
DMV Hearings
Felony DUI Cases
Professional License Protection
CDL DUI Defense
Out-of-State Representation
Field Sobriety Challenges
License Reinstatement
Boating Under Influence
Negligent Operator Cases
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- 40+ years of specialized DUI defense experience
- Board-certified attorney by American Bar Association standards
- Co-author of California's definitive DUI legal reference guide
- Proven track record in 130+ jury trials
- Established relationships with Northern California courts and prosecutors
Associations and certifications
- National College of DUI Defense (Board-Certified)
What people say
Not guilty verdict
Highly recommended
Professional and knowledgeable
Life-changing guidance
Excellent courtroom skills
Services
DUI Defense
Our DUI defense practice handles all levels of charges from first-time offenses to felony DUI cases involving accidents. We employ scientifically-based defense strategies, challenge field sobriety test validity, and leverage our deep understanding of California's complex DUI laws. Our board-certified attorney's expertise in chemical testing protocols and breathalyzer technology provides unique advantages in court. We represent clients facing license suspension, jail time, and insurance consequences.
DMV Hearings
We specialize in DMV administrative hearings to prevent driver's license suspension following DUI arrests. Our proven strategies challenge the state's evidence while navigating California's strict 10-day filing requirement. We coordinate legal and DMV defenses simultaneously to maximize protection of driving privileges. Our experience with breathalyzer calibration records and procedural violations gives clients distinct advantages during these critical hearings.
Professional License Defense
We defend professionals facing DUI charges that threaten medical, legal, and other occupational licenses. Our approach addresses both criminal and licensing board requirements through tailored mitigation strategies. We prepare detailed mitigation packages demonstrating rehabilitation efforts while challenging the underlying DUI charges. Our success record includes protecting careers in healthcare, law enforcement, and aviation industries.
Felony DUI Cases
Our practice handles felony DUI cases involving accidents, injuries, and repeat offenses. We challenge blood alcohol testing methodologies, accident reconstruction evidence, and prosecutorial overreach. Our courtroom experience with vehicular manslaughter and DUI murder charges provides unique insights into jury dynamics. We develop comprehensive defense strategies combining technical challenges with compassionate narratives about client circumstances.
Out-of-State Representation
We represent non-residents arrested for DUI in Northern California, minimizing travel requirements through court appearances and electronic communication. Our understanding of California's unique DUI processes helps out-of-state clients navigate unfamiliar legal systems. We coordinate with local counsel when needed while maintaining primary case responsibility. Our focus remains on reducing long-term impacts to driving privileges in clients' home states.
People
Paul Richard Burglin
Attorney
Board-certified DUI defense specialist with 40+ years experience handling 7,000+ cases. Author of California's leading DUI legal treatise and graduate of Indiana's chemical testing course. Recognized by peers for courtroom expertise and strategic defense approaches.
Questions
What should I do immediately after a DUI arrest?
Contact our office within 10 days to preserve DMV hearing rights. Avoid discussing case details with law enforcement and document any medical conditions affecting field sobriety test performance.
Can I keep my driver's license after a DUI charge?
We implement dual defense strategies targeting both criminal charges and DMV administrative actions. Successful outcomes often include restricted licenses or complete dismissal of suspension requirements.
How does prior DUI history affect my case?
Repeat offenses carry enhanced penalties, but we challenge evidence admissibility and explore rehabilitation programs that demonstrate proactive responsibility-taking to mitigate consequences.
What makes your DUI defense different?
Our board-certified expertise, authorship of California's DUI legal bible, and 130+ jury trial experiences provide unique insights into prosecutorial strategies and effective countermeasures.
Can professional licenses be protected after DUI charges?
Yes, we create mitigation packages showing rehabilitation efforts while challenging the underlying charges. Our approach addresses both criminal court requirements and licensing board concerns.
