Criminal Defense
DUI Defense Attorney in San Diego, CA
A DUI arrest is not a conviction. We challenge the stop, the tests, and the evidence to protect your license and your record.
A San Diego DUI charge moves fast — you have only 10 days to request a DMV hearing before your license is automatically suspended. At Tegnelia & DeBose, APC, we act immediately to protect your driving privileges while we dismantle the criminal case against you. California DUI cases hinge on details prosecutors hope you'll overlook: whether the traffic stop was lawful, whether field sobriety tests were administered correctly, and whether the breath or blood sample was collected and stored properly. We scrutinize the calibration logs, the officer's training records, and the chain of custody. Whether this is your first offense or you're facing a felony DUI with priors, we build a defense aimed at reduction, dismissal, or acquittal — not a quick guilty plea.
What We Handle
Charges & Cases We Defend
Our defense covers the full range of related charges and proceedings. If your situation isn't listed, call us — we handle it.
(619) 876-0992The Process
How We Defend Your Case
Every case is different, but our approach is disciplined and relentless from the first call to the final resolution.
Protect Your License
We request your DMV hearing within the 10-day window and immediately preserve your right to drive while the case is pending.
Attack the Evidence
We review body-cam footage, breathalyzer calibration records, and blood-draw protocols for the flaws that lead to suppression.
Negotiate From Strength
With weaknesses exposed, we push for reduced charges — a wet reckless, a dry reckless, or an outright dismissal.
Trial Readiness
If the offer isn't right, we're prepared to take your case to a San Diego jury and hold the state to its burden of proof.
California DUI Penalties at a Glance
Penalties escalate quickly with prior offenses and aggravating factors such as a high BAC, a minor in the vehicle, or an accident. This is general information, not legal advice — your exposure depends on the specific facts of your case.
- First offense: fines, license suspension, DUI school, and possible jail
- Second/third offenses: mandatory jail, longer suspension, IID installation
- Felony DUI: state prison exposure and a permanent felony record
- Aggravating factors (injury, high BAC, minor passenger) increase all penalties
The Difference
Why Hire a Private Criminal Defense Attorney
When your freedom and future are at stake, the right advocate makes all the difference. Here's what you get with a dedicated private defense team.
Time & Attention
Public defenders are overworked and stretched thin. We limit our caseload so your case gets the focus it deserves.
Early Intervention
We get involved from day one — often before charges are filed — when the biggest opportunities to change the outcome exist.
Independent Investigation
We deploy our own investigators and experts rather than relying on the police report the prosecution hands us.
Direct Access
You work directly with your attorney, not a rotating cast. Call, text, or email — we keep you informed at every step.
FAQ
DUI Defense FAQs
Answers to common questions about dui defense cases in San Diego.
Only 10 calendar days from the date of your arrest to request a DMV hearing. Miss that deadline and your license is automatically suspended. Call us right away so we can file the request for you.
Charged with DUI? Don't wait.
The sooner we get involved, the more we can do. Your first consultation is free.
Related Practice Areas
Explore Related Defenses
Get a Free, Confidential Case Review
Speak directly with Attorney Marcus DeBose about your case. No pressure, no judgment — just a clear plan to protect your future.
- Free Consultation
- Se Habla Español
- 24/7 Case Review
- Former Prosecutor Insight