At Lee Law Group DUI & Criminal Attorneys, we know that facing a felony DUI charge in San Diego is overwhelming, frightening, and life-changing. Whether you were just arrested, are under investigation, or you’re already dealing with the consequences of a conviction, you’re searching for answers, support, and a path forward. Lee Law Group DUI & Criminal Attorneys can help.
Facing a felony DUI charge in San Diego? Call Lee Law Group DUI & Criminal Attorneys at (619) 975-2033 or reach out to our defense team online for experienced legal representation and support.
We’re here to walk you through California’s laws, what you’re up against, and the options available to you. Our team treats every client with dignity and respect, listening to your story, and providing the honest, aggressive defense you deserve.
How Lee Law Group DUI & Criminal Attorneys Can Help
Lee Law Group DUI & Criminal Attorneys serves people from all walks of life who find themselves or their loved ones facing felony DUI charges. You might be:
Under investigation or recently arrested. You want to know what happens next, what penalties you face, and what you can do to fight the charges.
Convicted and seeking relief. You’re looking for ways to reduce the impact of a conviction through appeals, expungement, or sentence reduction.
A concerned friend or family member. You’re trying to help someone who may be in jail or unable to access information themselves.
We understand the anxiety, confusion, and urgency you feel. Our goal is to provide clear, honest information and compassionate support, no matter where you are in the process.
Why Choose Lee Law Group DUI & Criminal Attorneys?
Affordable Justice
Everyone deserves a powerful defense. We’re committed to making fierce, effective representation accessible and affordable.
Experienced and Unyielding
With 20 years of legal experience, we’ve honed the instincts, strategy, and grit needed to deliver results—even in the toughest situations.
Client-Centered Protection
When you hire us, you’re under our wing. We take on your burden, reduce your anxiety, and give you the strength of knowing someone has your back.
Strength with Compassion
We combine inner steel with heartfelt empathy. Our clients aren’t just cases—they’re people who deserve to feel protected, supported, and understood.
Relentless Advocacy
We fight for our clients with unshakable determination. Like a pitbull in the courtroom, we don’t back down—ever—until the judge says it’s over.
Why Is My DUI a Felony?
The main statute covering felony DUI is California Vehicle Code § 23153. This law states that it is a felony to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs and, as a result, cause bodily injury to another person.
Felony DUI can also be charged under these circumstances:
Fourth DUI Offense: If you have three or more prior DUI convictions within the past 10 years, a new DUI can be charged as a felony (Vehicle Code § 23550).
Prior Felony DUI: If you have a prior felony DUI conviction, any new DUI (even without injury) is a felony (Vehicle Code § 23550.5).
DUI Causing Injury or Death: If your alleged DUI results in injury or death to another person, prosecutors may file felony charges. Even first-time offenders could face felony charges if the DUI caused injury or death.
Consequences of a Felony DUI Conviction
Felony DUI convictions carry life-altering penalties. Here’s what you need to know:
Prison Time
State Prison. Felony DUI can result in 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in state prison for DUI causing injury (Vehicle Code § 23153).
Enhanced Sentences. If someone suffers great bodily injury, or if there are multiple victims, additional years can be added.
Fines and Restitution
Fines. Felony DUI fines can total several thousand dollars, including court fees and penalty assessments.
Restitution. Courts may order you to pay restitution to injured parties.
Driver’s License Suspension
Mandatory Suspension. The DMV will suspend your license for at least one year, and often much longer.
Ignition Interlock Device. You may be required to install and maintain this device at your own expense.
Other Consequences
Felony Record. A felony conviction can affect employment, housing, and civil rights.
Probation or Parole. You may be placed on formal probation or parole, with strict conditions.
DUI School. Mandatory attendance at DUI education programs.
Immigration Consequences. Non-citizens may face deportation or denial of reentry.
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“Godsend!”
“Mr. Lee was truly a godsend. From the moment I met him, he showed nothing but kindness, patience, and genuine care for me and my situation. He’s not just a brilliant defense lawyer—he’s someone who truly cares about his clients on a perso”
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“Beyond Grateful!”
“I am beyond grateful for the exceptional legal services I received from Mr. Lee. From the moment I reached out, he provided a level of professionalism, expertise, and dedication that truly made a difference.”
Can Felony DUI Charges Be Beat? What Are the Defenses?
Felony DUI charges are serious, but they are not unbeatable. We believe every client deserves a strong, individualized defense. After reviewing the details of your charges, we’ll be able to determine which of the following defenses would be best.
Challenging the Evidence
Unlawful Stop: If law enforcement did not have probable cause to stop you, we may be able to have evidence suppressed.
Faulty Testing: Breathalyzers and blood tests are not infallible. We scrutinize the procedures and calibration records to shed light on inconsistencies and/or questionable data.
Chain of Custody Issues: If we identify gaps, errors, or inconsistencies in how evidence was handled (including documentation and preservation), we may be able to argue that it was compromised, altered, or otherwise mishandled to get it excluded from the trial.
Disputing Causation
No Actual Injury: The prosecution must prove that your alleged intoxication caused the accident and injury. If there isn’t a direct correlation, we’ll call it into question.
Other Contributing Factors: Mechanical failure, weather, or another driver may have caused the accident. We’ll investigate all elements of the accident to shed light on other causes beyond intoxication.
Procedural Defenses
Miranda Violations: You have the right to remain silent, to be warned that anything you say could be used against you in court, and the right to an attorney. If any of these rights were violated, we may be able to exclude evidence that was obtained inadmissibly.
Improper Investigation: We review every detail for errors or misconduct.
Relief After a Conviction
A felony DUI conviction isn’t always the end. California law provides avenues for post-conviction relief.
Appeal: If errors were made at trial, you may have grounds to appeal.
Expungement: Some felony DUI convictions may be eligible for expungement under Penal Code § 1203.4.
Reduction to Misdemeanor: In some cases, we can petition to reduce a felony to a misdemeanor.
Certificate of Rehabilitation: This can help restore certain rights and improve employment prospects.
Choose Lee Law Group DUI & Criminal Attorneys for Felony DUI Defense in San Diego
At Lee Law Group DUI & Criminal Attorneys, we’re more than just attorneys – we’re members of the San Diego community, committed to helping our neighbors through some of life’s toughest moments.
Our team approach means you’ll have a group of dedicated professionals on your side, working together to protect your rights and your future. We have a strong reputation for being responsive, transparent, and relentless in our pursuit of fair outcomes.
If you or a loved one is facing felony DUI charges in San Diego, don’t wait. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can start building your defense. Call (619) 975-2033 or contact us online for a confidential consultation.
