What makes a first-offense misdemeanor DUI in California so damaging isn't just the criminal case — it's the collateral fallout. Within 10 days of arrest, you must request a DMV Administrative Per Se (APS) hearing.
A DUI conviction in California carries severe penalties that can affect every aspect of your life. The consequences escalate with each subsequent offense, even a first-time DUI can be devastating.
Arrested for marijuana DUI in Southern California? Despite California's legal use of recreational cannabis, driving under the influence remains a serious charge.
A DUI arrest sets two clocks running at once — a criminal case in San Bernardino County court, and a separate administrative case with the California DMV. Both move fast, and both are easier to navigate with an attorney who knows the local court system from the first phone call.
Serving Chino Hills and the Surrounding Region
The Cespedes Law Firm, L.C. is headquartered in Chino Hills, with additional offices serving Diamond Bar and Bakersfield. While the firm represents DUI clients throughout California, its Chino Hills base means direct familiarity with the Rancho Cucamonga Justice Center[1] — the Superior Court of California, San Bernardino County location that hears DUI cases arising in Chino Hills, Chino, Ontario, Upland, and Montclair — as well as the procedures used by the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department, which provides police services to Chino Hills under contract.
What a DUI Charge in California Actually Involves
Under California Vehicle Code § 23152[2], it's illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher, or while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. From there, the specifics of a charge vary widely — a first-offense misdemeanor with no injury looks nothing like a felony DUI involving injury or multiple prior convictions. The Cespedes Law Firm handles the full range, including:
Misdemeanor DUI (first and second offense)
Felony DUI, including cases involving injury (DUI causing injury, or "GBI")
DUI involving drugs (DUID), including cannabis
Underage and zero-tolerance DUI cases
Commercial driver DUI
DUI expungement for past convictions
The Two Cases You're Actually Facing
Every DUI arrest in California opens a criminal case and a DMV case simultaneously. The criminal case, which proceeds through arraignment and pretrial hearings under rules like Penal Code § 825[3] (requiring arraignment without unnecessary delay), decides guilt and sentencing. The DMV case is entirely separate, runs on a strict 10-day deadline to request an Administrative Per Se hearing[4], and decides whether your license is suspended — independent of what happens in court.
Why Timing Matters More Than People Expect
The earlier an attorney is involved, the more options are typically on the table — from requesting the DMV hearing before the deadline passes, to reviewing the arrest report and chemical test procedures before evidence review has moved forward without your input. Waiting to "see what the court says first" can mean losing the DMV hearing window entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after a DUI arrest in Chino Hills?
Contact an attorney as soon as possible — both to prepare for your arraignment at the Rancho Cucamonga Justice Center and to make sure the 10-day DMV hearing deadline isn't missed.
Questions about your case? Call (323) 622-4951. Free, confidential, 24/7.
Does the Cespedes Law Firm handle felony DUI cases, not just misdemeanors?
Yes — the firm represents clients across the full range of DUI charges, from a first-time misdemeanor to felony DUI involving injury or multiple priors.
Is the firm limited to Chino Hills, or does it handle DUI cases elsewhere in California?
The firm is headquartered in Chino Hills with additional offices in Diamond Bar and Bakersfield, and represents DUI clients throughout California.
Charged With DUI in Chino Hills?
The first conversation after a DUI arrest often shapes everything that follows. The Cespedes Law Firm, L.C. is headquartered in Chino Hills and represents clients in English and Spanish throughout California. Call (323) 622-4951 for a free consultation.
Amazing Attorney
Amazing Honest Attorney I needed help I was looking at a Felony DUI He came in fixed the problem and I avoided going to state prison Thank you so much for everything
TimmyApril 08, 2026
Avvo
Best Attorney
10 out of 10 I was very hesitant of writing a review since this is a personal problem. However, when your attorney goes above and beyond for you, how could you not??? I was arrested for a DUI with child endangerment. They got me for a Felony charge. Yes i was drunk but I did not endanger my child. Long story short FELONY charges dismissed !!! Thank you Armando, Veronica, Karla, Ana, what a team.
RamonSeptember 25, 2025
Avvo
Top Attorney
What can I say, 10 out 10 I did not find it okay that the officer was charging me with a Felony DUI. They acted like i injured the guy. This was a cash grab since i knew i didn't injury anyone. Anyways, this attorney went to court fought for me and did not allow them to take advantage of me. The court was unable to find me guilty of a Felony DUI
JasonJuly 28, 2025
Avvo
This is it
I knew that I was guilty and I knew that I was looking at jail time because of the DUI and the accident that occurred. However, he walked me through the process from A - Z and made sure that I understood that the case is not over just because I was arrested. Thank you very much for being there for me and getting me an amazing outcome. No Jail and I was able to move on with my life
James FMay 31, 2024
Avvo
Reviews and Ratings
We think our clients say it best
Top-quality service and attention to detail
We were honestly terrified after my boyfriend got his second DUI and crashed into a truck. It felt like everything was about to fall apart. Finding Cespedes Law Firm was the best thing that could’ve happened to us. Armando…
We were honestly terrified after my boyfriend got his second DUI and crashed into a truck. It felt like everything was about to fall apart. Finding Cespedes Law Firm was the best thing that could’ve happened to us. Armando Cespedes treated us with so much understanding and never made us feel judged. He fought hard for my boyfriend and was able to get his charges reduced, which truly changed our lives. We’re beyond grateful and will never forget what he did for us.
Vanessa RuizMay 18, 2026 · Hired attorney
Gracias Abogado
Recibi un DUI en Los Angeles. Estaba muy asustado, pero el abogado Armando Cespedes me ayudo en la corte. El se presento en corte sin que yo fuera. El lucho por mi caso y me quito los cargos. Es un muy buen abogado con compasion…
Recibi un DUI en Los Angeles. Estaba muy asustado, pero el abogado Armando Cespedes me ayudo en la corte. El se presento en corte sin que yo fuera. El lucho por mi caso y me quito los cargos. Es un muy buen abogado con compasion que realmente se preocupo por mi buen estar.
JorgeSeptember 16, 2025 · Hired attorney
Highly Recommend Cespedes Law Firm For DUI Services In LA!!
If you’re looking for the best DUI lawyer in Los Angeles, I highly recommend Cespedes Law Firm. My 22 year old cousin was facing a second DUI after a serious accident where he ran into a truck, and we were extremely worried about…
If you’re looking for the best DUI lawyer in Los Angeles, I highly recommend Cespedes Law Firm. My 22 year old cousin was facing a second DUI after a serious accident where he ran into a truck, and we were extremely worried about the consequences. Armando took over the case right away, explained everything clearly, and fought hard to get the best possible outcome. Thanks to his expertise, he was able to get the charges reduced, which made a HUGE difference for my cousins future. Honestly, If you need a DUI attorney who knows how to handle serious cases and actually get results, this is the guy you are looking to call. Highly recommend!!
Ryan ContrerasMay 31, 2026 · Hired attorney
El mejor Abogado
Mil gracias al abogado Armando Cespedes y a su equipo, quienes demostraron ser muy honestos y dedicados. Me arrestaron por un caso de DUI Felonia. La corte me habia dicho que iba a ir a la carcel por anos porque choque contra un…
Mil gracias al abogado Armando Cespedes y a su equipo, quienes demostraron ser muy honestos y dedicados. Me arrestaron por un caso de DUI Felonia. La corte me habia dicho que iba a ir a la carcel por anos porque choque contra un carro y heri a una persona. Fue un error, honestamente fue un grande error, y nunca antes habia tenido problemas legales pero gracias al abogado Armando Cespedes, soy libre y tengo una segunda oportunidad para seguir adelante con mi vida y mi familia.
Juan DSeptember 10, 2025 · Hired attorney
Mejor Abogado
Quiero agradecer enormemente al abogado Armando Céspedes por su dedicación, profesionalismo y esfuerzo en la defensa de mi caso de DUI. Desde el principio, me hizo sentir apoyado y seguro, y gracias a su trabajo excepcional, pude…
Quiero agradecer enormemente al abogado Armando Céspedes por su dedicación, profesionalismo y esfuerzo en la defensa de mi caso de DUI. Desde el principio, me hizo sentir apoyado y seguro, y gracias a su trabajo excepcional, pude evitar una condena de cárcel, lo cual era una de mis mayores preocupaciones. Más allá de eso, también me ayudó a evitar la deportación, algo que hubiera cambiado mi vida por completo. Gracias a su experiencia y compromiso, pude seguir adelante con mi caso y, finalmente, obtener mi estatus legal en este país. Este logro ha sido fundamental para mi futuro, y no tengo palabras suficientes para expresar mi gratitud. El abogado Céspedes no solo resolvió mi situación legal, sino que también me dio la oportunidad de reconstruir mi vida aquí. Recomiendo al abogado Armando Céspedes sin dudarlo, ya que, gracias a él, pude superar una de las etapas más difíciles de mi vida.
LozanoNovember 19, 2025 · Hired attorney
5 star DUI Attorney
I was arrested for a DUI just recently, since Spanish is my first language, it was important to find a great attorney who was bilingual. Getting your first DUI can be extremely stressful, I was completely blinded when it came to…
I was arrested for a DUI just recently, since Spanish is my first language, it was important to find a great attorney who was bilingual. Getting your first DUI can be extremely stressful, I was completely blinded when it came to handling this situation. I found many criminal defense attorneys online claiming they are the best. However, Armando Cespedes stood out to me, not only does he speaks Spanish but works for one of the best criminal defense law firms in Los Angeles. When I first spoke to him, I felt at ease being explained everything from A to Z. I decided to hire him to represent me with this DUI and I am so pleased with the results. His aggressiveness, knowledge, and experience with DUIs is what helped me retrieve my license license again. In the end, Armando Cespedes was able to get the DA to dismiss the DUI case. Attorney Armando most definitely did not over promise, he over delivered. 10/10 highly recommend his legal services to anyone fighting a DUI or criminal defense case.
ChristianAugust 07, 2023 · Hired attorney
My Lawyer
Attorney Armando Cespedes and his team helped me when I thought my whole life was over. This was my second DUI and this time someone got hurt, so I was sure I was going to jail. The public defender even told me I should expect…
Attorney Armando Cespedes and his team helped me when I thought my whole life was over. This was my second DUI and this time someone got hurt, so I was sure I was going to jail. The public defender even told me I should expect serious time. But Mr. Cespedes never gave up on me. He explained everything in a way I could understand and walked me through every step so I didn’t feel alone or scared. Because of him, I didn’t do any jail time at all, and I can keep taking care of my family. I’m so grateful for him and his whole team. They treated me like a real person, not just a case. Me and my family thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
JuanDecember 07, 2025 · Hired attorney
#1 DUI Attorney
I was referred to Mr. Cespedes by a family friend who was very pleased with his legal services. Unfortunately, I got a DUI a few months ago and I was completely lost as to who to hire to represent me. As soon as I called Armando…
I was referred to Mr. Cespedes by a family friend who was very pleased with his legal services. Unfortunately, I got a DUI a few months ago and I was completely lost as to who to hire to represent me. As soon as I called Armando he gave me the information needed and most importantly was very honest. I almost lost my job due to this DUI because I drive for a living, and Mr. Cespedes was able to save my license. I am very glad I decided to hire this attorney, thank you Mr. Armando and your team.
ConnieAugust 07, 2023 · Hired attorney
Best attorney
Went to court Dismissed my DUi case , I am not having anything in my record, just a 12 hour alcohol program , saved my life, my future absolutely amazing attorney. Thank you Aramando Cepedes
AlanJanuary 18, 2025 · Hired attorney
Amazing Law Firm
Words cannot describe how highly I recommend this law firm. Armando and Veronica are an amazing team. After being charged with a DUI, I was worried about the potential consequences on my career and personal life. From the moment…
Words cannot describe how highly I recommend this law firm. Armando and Veronica are an amazing team. After being charged with a DUI, I was worried about the potential consequences on my career and personal life. From the moment I had my consultation to the very end, they were truly incredible. They kept me informed and reassured me every step of the way. They made sure that we were a step ahead of the court and did many of the necessary things needed to help my DUI case. They were constantly checking in on me, making sure I was doing well, while also staying up to date on everything needed. Whenever I had any questions or concerns, they were there to answer them and reassure me that everything would work out. Thanks to their hard work and effective strategy, my case was dismissed, and I am beyond grateful. If you are facing a DUI charge, this is the firm you want to work on your case.
DanielDecember 08, 2024 · Hired attorney
I hired Armando Cespedes by hearing about him through friend and am so glad I did. He is a very professional man and a wonderful person. His legal advice and service was great concerning my dui charge. I admire his dedication and…
I hired Armando Cespedes by hearing about him through friend and am so glad I did. He is a very professional man and a wonderful person. His legal advice and service was great concerning my dui charge. I admire his dedication and would highly recommend him to someone.
Christy ChristySeptember 21, 2026
I was in a rough situation in high school and after failing my midterm I got drunk and decided to drive. Armando Cespedes helped me get my dui, criminal charge dropped from a felony to a misdemeanor. I only had to do a couple…
I was in a rough situation in high school and after failing my midterm I got drunk and decided to drive. Armando Cespedes helped me get my dui, criminal charge dropped from a felony to a misdemeanor. I only had to do a couple months of community service rather than 5 years in jail. My life really got turned around and now I can freely go to college and look for jobs without having a criminal record.
Katelyn AlarconSeptember 21, 2026
Exelente abogado, mi paralegal fue Ana García, exelente en su trabajo,.amable y atenta. Recomendada.
Alexis FunesSeptember 15, 2026
Ana and destiny were always on top of my case every question was answer imediatly i have a case that was droped from felony to misterminor and i was always worried couldent sleep at night from thinking to much they always gave me…
Ana and destiny were always on top of my case every question was answer imediatly i have a case that was droped from felony to misterminor and i was always worried couldent sleep at night from thinking to much they always gave me hope mr .cespedes great ciuldent ask for more he was dedicated and polite for every questipn i had and made it happen thanks to them my nightmares went away and i can sleep better now thank you to all three of you for making it happen :)
Suarlin LeonSeptember 15, 2026
Hiring Armando Cespedes was one of the best decisions I made. I had the pleasure of working with his paralegal, Ana, who was wonderful throughout the entire process. She communicated clearly, answered all of my questions, and…
Hiring Armando Cespedes was one of the best decisions I made. I had the pleasure of working with his paralegal, Ana, who was wonderful throughout the entire process. She communicated clearly, answered all of my questions, and kept me informed every step of the way on my dui case. I truly appreciated how responsive and helpful she was. Their prices are also very reasonable. I highly recommend Armando Cespedes and his team!
Bryan OrtegaSeptember 14, 2026
I had an excellent experience with The Cespedes Law Firm . Ana was my paralegal, and she kept me updated every step of the way. Thank you Ana, you made a stressful process easy.
Olga SalcedoSeptember 12, 2026
I have been represented by Cespedes Law firm. I talk to attorney once, after that I communicated with mostly with Anna. She was very good at what show does and explained everything going on when the court dates are etc. also when…
I have been represented by Cespedes Law firm. I talk to attorney once, after that I communicated with mostly with Anna. She was very good at what show does and explained everything going on when the court dates are etc. also when Anna is busy Destinay will take the calls. My lawyer whet to DMV took care of that then , my lawyer appeared on my behalf the first time, after that I went once. I am not sure but it seems he negotiated the deal with district arttorny, my DUI charges were dropped and charged with wetreckles driving , which he explains it’s better then DUi. They are very diligent in what they are doing. Best of all they are very reasonable in their price, which is a big thing when you can’t afford.
Abe Rehman (Abel)September 11, 2026
I cannot say enough wonderful things about my attorney and Anna. From day one, they have been professional, knowledgeable, responsive, and genuinely caring. After previously having a very frustrating experience with legal…
I cannot say enough wonderful things about my attorney and Anna. From day one, they have been professional, knowledgeable, responsive, and genuinely caring. After previously having a very frustrating experience with legal representation, finding this team has been a complete breath of fresh air. They listen, communicate clearly, answer my questions, and make sure I understand what is happening every step of the way. I finally feel like I have people in my corner who truly care about their clients. Anna is absolutely amazing. She is patient, organized, compassionate, and always goes above and beyond to help. Her communication and kindness have made an incredibly stressful process so much easier. I am extremely grateful for everything they have done for me and would recommend them without hesitation. If you are looking for a legal team that is professional, dedicated, responsive, and actually cares about the people they represent, you are in excellent hands here. Five stars!
Karrisa SciollaSeptember 10, 2026
I had Alex Macias represent me and he was so wonderful and understanding. I also had Ana the paralegal and she was basically with me the whole time to answer my calls and questions she was absolutely the most amazing help I could…
I had Alex Macias represent me and he was so wonderful and understanding. I also had Ana the paralegal and she was basically with me the whole time to answer my calls and questions she was absolutely the most amazing help I could ask for .
irene maresJuly 22, 2026
I had a great experience with this firm. Anna and Destiny kept me up to date on my case. I never had to ask questions. I highly recommend hiring this firm.
CHARLES WADDEYJuly 10, 2026
Quiero darles las gracias a esta firma d abogados que m brindaron un gran servicio...ala señorita ana q siempre m mantuvo informado d todo el procedimiento d mi caso musisismas gracias estoy muy agradecido los recomiendo al 100 x…
Quiero darles las gracias a esta firma d abogados que m brindaron un gran servicio...ala señorita ana q siempre m mantuvo informado d todo el procedimiento d mi caso musisismas gracias estoy muy agradecido los recomiendo al 100 x ciento gracias ana c porto muy amable conmigo mucha profesionalidad d su parte bendiciones
Leonel RomeroJuly 2, 2026
Ana, thank you for all your help and being as resourceful as you are. Your attentive energy makes this process much easier.
Alyson Chisholm
This is it. I was in need of a great DUI defense law firm. I reached out to the this firm and they made everything easy for me. I didn’t live close by to the court house. And they were able to do the entire transaction over the…
This is it. I was in need of a great DUI defense law firm. I reached out to the this firm and they made everything easy for me. I didn’t live close by to the court house. And they were able to do the entire transaction over the phone. We talked about the case and talked numbers. They made this process so easy and smooth for me. I never once had to go to the office. Eventually, my court date came and i didnt have to go to any of my hearing. I went to the last hearing just to see what was going on and wow did Mr. Armando take care of business. I was so surprised how on how smooth the process went. Thank you so much to your team, Veronica, Ana, Destiny, Camila Everyone was so nice to me!
Taylor Rodriguez
Our Client Reviews and Awards
5.0 out of 5 from 83 client reviews on AvvoRead every one of them on our reviews page.
We represent clients in a wide range of criminal matters throughout California, including DUI, drug offenses, theft, assault, domestic violence, and more.
Q2
Stay calm, exercise your right to remain silent, and call us right away — anything you say beforehand can be used against you.
Q3
It depends on the charge and on your record. A conviction can bring jail or prison time, fines, probation and a suspended driver's license, and it leaves a criminal record that can affect work, housing and immigration status.
Q4
We offer free consultations and flexible payment plans, so cost never has to stand between you and a strong defense.
Q5
Immediately — early representation protects key deadlines, like DMV hearings, and shapes the defense from day one.
Q6
Yes — we consider immigration consequences carefully when building a defense strategy for non-citizen clients.
Hire the Best Criminal Defense Lawyer in California for Your Defense.
When you or a loved one have been arrested or accused of breaking the law, our job is to get your life back. We have the experts, investigators, and experience to deliver the justice you deserve.
