Lompoc DUI Attorney

57+ Years of Combined Experience

Aggressive Lompoc DUI defense attorney. Defending first-time, multiple offense, DUI with injury, and commercial driver DUI cases. Protect your rights now.

Being arrested for DUI in Lompoc can feel like your life is falling apart—but you’re not alone, and you have options. Whether you’re dealing with your first DUI arrest, multiple DUI offenses, DUI with injury charges, underage DUI allegations, commercial driver DUI threatening your CDL, DUI causing death resulting in vehicular manslaughter charges, or refusal of chemical testing leading to automatic license suspensions, understanding your charges and the critical DMV deadlines is the first step toward protecting your freedom, your driver’s license, your Vandenberg Space Force Base security clearances, and your future in Lompoc where DUI convictions destroy careers at the Space Force Base and Federal Correctional Complex that sustain the local economy.

At Central Coast Criminal Defense, we’ve helped Lompoc residents defend against DUI charges since 2010. We know the Santa Barbara County courts, the judges at Lompoc Superior Court on North H Street, the prosecutors, the California Highway Patrol officers who patrol Highway 1 and Ocean Avenue, and—most importantly—we know how to fight for results that protect what matters most: your freedom, your driving privileges, your security clearances at Vandenberg, your federal employment, and your ability to move forward without a DUI conviction destroying your career in a community where driving is essential to reaching Vandenberg Space Force Base and maintaining employment that supports families.

What Are DUI Charges in California?

DUI in California is prosecuted under Vehicle Code Section 23152 which contains multiple subsections prohibiting driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or both. VC 23152(a) prohibits driving under the influence of alcohol to the extent you cannot drive with the caution of a sober person—this is subjective standard based on your actual impairment regardless of BAC. VC 23152(b) prohibits driving with blood alcohol content of .08% or higher—this is per se violation meaning any BAC at or above .08% is illegal regardless of actual impairment. VC 23152(f) prohibits driving under influence of drugs including marijuana, prescription medications, and illegal substances. These are separate offenses that can be charged simultaneously, though you can only be punished for one. First-time DUI is misdemeanor carrying up to 6 months jail, 3-5 years probation, substantial fines, license suspension, DUI school, and possible ignition interlock device. Second and third DUIs carry escalating penalties including longer jail sentences, extended license suspensions, and mandatory ignition interlock. Fourth DUI within 10 years becomes felony carrying 16 months to 3 years state prison. DUI with injury under VC 23153 is always chargeable as felony carrying up to 4 years prison plus great bodily injury enhancements adding 3-6 years.

In Lompoc and throughout North County Santa Barbara, DUI arrests commonly occur on Highway 1 where California Highway Patrol conducts traffic enforcement and sobriety checkpoints, Ocean Avenue where Lompoc Police patrol for impaired drivers particularly on weekend nights, residential streets throughout Lompoc neighborhoods after drivers leave local bars and restaurants, near Vandenberg Space Force Base as military personnel and contractors drive to and from work, and on rural roads surrounding Lompoc. DUI investigations typically begin with traffic stops for Vehicle Code violations like speeding, lane violations, or equipment issues observed on Highway 1 or Ocean Avenue, followed by detention for DUI investigation when officers claim they smell alcohol, observe red/watery eyes, or note slurred speech. Officers then conduct field sobriety tests including horizontal gaze nystagmus (eye test), walk-and-turn, and one-leg stand—these are voluntary and you can refuse them without penalty beyond arrest. If officers believe you’re impaired, they arrest you and require chemical testing of breath or blood under implied consent law—refusal triggers 1-year license suspension for first offense and is used as evidence of consciousness of guilt at trial.

What many people arrested for DUI in Lompoc don’t understand is that you face two separate proceedings: criminal prosecution at Lompoc Superior Court on North H Street where you face jail, fines, probation, and DUI school, and DMV administrative per se hearing where DMV seeks to suspend your license for months or years regardless of criminal case outcome. You have only 10 days from arrest to request DMV hearing or your license automatically suspends 30 days after arrest—this deadline is absolute and missing it means losing driving privileges essential to commuting to Vandenberg Space Force Base for work. Additionally, many DUI cases involve powerful defenses including illegal traffic stops when California Highway Patrol or Lompoc Police lacked reasonable suspicion to pull you over on Highway 1 or Ocean Avenue, rising blood alcohol when your BAC was below .08% while driving but rose above limit by time of testing due to absorption, mouth alcohol contaminating breath tests when you burped or regurgitated shortly before testing, medical conditions affecting field sobriety test performance unrelated to alcohol, and inaccurate breath or blood testing when machines weren’t properly calibrated or blood samples weren’t properly preserved. Without aggressive representation that requests DMV hearings within 10 days, challenges traffic stops and testing procedures, cross-examines California Highway Patrol officers, and presents expert testimony on blood alcohol science, you risk losing your license immediately, suffering DUI conviction destroying Vandenberg security clearances and ending military careers, and facing jail time, massive fines, and years of probation in a community where driving is essential to economic survival and employment at Vandenberg Space Force Base and Federal Correctional Complex.

  • Legal Definition: DUI under VC 23152 prohibits driving under influence of alcohol (VC 23152(a)), driving with BAC .08% or higher (VC 23152(b)), or driving under influence of drugs (VC 23152(f)), with first-time DUI carrying up to 6 months jail, 3-5 years probation, license suspension, DUI school, fines, and possible ignition interlock, while DUI with injury (VC 23153) carries up to 4 years prison plus great bodily injury enhancements, and fourth DUI becomes felony carrying 16 months to 3 years state prison.
  • Why It’s Devastating: DUI convictions result in immediate loss of security clearances required for Vandenberg Space Force Base employment ending military and contractor careers, termination from federal correctional officer positions at Federal Correctional Complex Lompoc, license suspensions preventing ability to commute to Vandenberg for work, commercial driver disqualification permanently ending CDL trucking careers, deportation for non-citizens as crimes involving moral turpitude, massive insurance increases, and jail time separating you from family and employment in Lompoc.
  • Common Triggers: Traffic stops on Highway 1 where California Highway Patrol observes Vehicle Code violations, Ocean Avenue patrol where Lompoc Police stop impaired drivers on weekend nights, residential streets after leaving local bars and restaurants, near Vandenberg Space Force Base as personnel drive to/from work, sobriety checkpoints on Highway 1, and accidents involving injuries requiring DUI investigation.

Critical 10-Day Deadline: You have only 10 days from arrest to request DMV hearing or license automatically suspends. Do not wait. Call +1 (805) 621-7181 immediately—your driving privileges, Vandenberg career, and freedom depend on immediate action.

DUI Charges We Defend in Lompoc

We defend clients against all DUI charges in Lompoc, Santa Barbara County, and surrounding areas. Here are the offenses we handle:

Misdemeanor DUI Offenses

  • First-Time DUI (VC 23152(a)/(b))
    Driving under influence or with BAC .08% or higher | Max penalty: 6 months jail, 3-5 years probation, $1,800+ fines, 6-month license suspension, 3-month DUI school, possible IID
  • Second DUI (VC 23152)
    Second DUI within 10 years of prior | Max penalty: 1 year jail, 3-5 years probation, $1,800+ fines, 2-year license suspension, 18-month DUI school, mandatory IID
  • Third DUI (VC 23152)
    Third DUI within 10 years of priors | Max penalty: 1 year jail, 3-5 years probation, $1,800+ fines, 3-year license suspension, 30-month DUI school, mandatory IID
  • DUI on Highway 1 and Ocean Avenue
    Arrests following traffic stops by California Highway Patrol and Lompoc Police | Defense: Challenge traffic stop legality, contest field sobriety tests, suppress evidence from illegal stops

Felony DUI Charges

  • Fourth DUI / Felony DUI (VC 23152)
    Fourth DUI within 10 years or any DUI with three priors | Max penalty: 16 months-3 years state prison, revoked license, 30-month DUI school, felony probation
  • DUI with Injury (VC 23153)
    Causing injury while driving under influence | Max penalty: 16 months-4 years prison, strike offense if great bodily injury, restitution to victims, enhanced penalties
  • DUI Causing Death / Vehicular Manslaughter (PC 191.5)
    Gross negligence or ordinary negligence DUI causing death | Max penalty: 4-10 years state prison, strike offense for gross negligence, restitution, permanent license revocation
  • Watson Murder (PC 187)
    DUI causing death with prior DUI convictions and Watson advisement | Max penalty: 15 years to life state prison, murder conviction for DUI fatal accidents

Drug DUI and Marijuana DUI

  • Driving Under Influence of Drugs (VC 23152(f))
    DUI involving marijuana, prescription medications, or illegal drugs | Defense: Challenge drug recognition expert opinions, contest impairment evidence, demonstrate legal medication use
  • Marijuana DUI
    Driving under influence of cannabis despite legal recreational use | Strategy: No per se limit for marijuana, challenge officer observations, contest field sobriety tests
  • Prescription Medication DUI
    DUI while taking lawfully prescribed medications | Defense: Demonstrate legal use, challenge impairment claims, contest dosage evidence

Enhanced DUI Charges

  • DUI with High BAC (VC 23152(b))
    BAC .15% or higher triggering enhanced penalties | Consequences: Longer DUI school, mandatory ignition interlock, increased jail time
  • DUI with Minor in Vehicle (VC 23572)
    Child under 14 in vehicle during DUI | Enhancement: 48 hours additional mandatory jail, possible child endangerment charges
  • DUI Causing Accident
    DUI resulting in property damage or traffic collision | Consequences: Increased penalties, restitution obligations, enhanced probation terms
  • Reckless Driving (VC 23103)
    Wet reckless plea bargain reducing DUI charges | Benefits: Priorable DUI but reduced penalties, shorter probation, no mandatory license suspension

Commercial Driver and CDL DUI

  • Commercial Driver DUI (VC 23152)
    DUI while holding commercial driver’s license | Consequences: 1-year CDL disqualification for first offense, lifetime disqualification for second, even in personal vehicle
  • CDL Driver with BAC .04% or Higher
    Lower BAC threshold for commercial drivers operating commercial vehicles | Strategy: Fight to preserve CDL essential to Lompoc trucking employment, negotiate non-DUI resolutions
  • Out-of-State CDL Holders
    Commercial drivers from other states arrested in Lompoc | Defense: Coordinate with home state licensing, minimize impact on interstate commerce employment

Underage DUI

  • Underage DUI – Zero Tolerance (VC 23136)
    Drivers under 21 with BAC .01% or higher | Penalty: 1-year license suspension, $100 fine, administrative violation not criminal
  • Underage DUI with BAC .05%+ (VC 23140)
    Drivers under 21 with BAC between .05%-.07% | Penalty: $100 fine, 1-year license suspension, alcohol education
  • Underage DUI .08% or Higher (VC 23152)
    Drivers under 21 prosecuted as adults for standard DUI | Consequences: Same as adult DUI plus underage enhancements, license suspension until 21

Vandenberg and Military-Specific DUI

  • DUI Involving Vandenberg Personnel
    Arrests of Space Force airmen, contractors, or military families | Consequences: Immediate loss of security clearances, military discharge, UCMJ proceedings, contractor termination
  • DUI Near Vandenberg Space Force Base
    Arrests on roads leading to/from Vandenberg during commute times | Strategy: Protect security clearances through dismissals or reductions, coordinate civilian and military defense
  • DUI by Federal Employees
    Arrests of Federal Correctional Complex Lompoc employees | Consequences: Employment suspension, termination proceedings, loss of federal benefits

DMV Administrative Proceedings

  • Administrative Per Se Hearing (APS)
    DMV hearing to contest license suspension separate from criminal case | Critical: Must request within 10 days of arrest or license automatically suspends
  • Chemical Test Refusal
    Refusing breath or blood test after arrest | Penalty: 1-year license suspension for first refusal, 2-3 years for subsequent, used as consciousness of guilt
  • DMV Hardship License / IID Restricted License
    Obtaining restricted license to drive to work at Vandenberg during suspension | Strategy: Install ignition interlock device, demonstrate employment necessity, maintain SR-22 insurance

Related Driving Offenses

  • Driving on Suspended License (VC 14601.2) – Driving while license suspended for DUI
  • Hit and Run with DUI – Leaving accident scene while intoxicated
  • Evading Police While DUI – Fleeing from California Highway Patrol or Lompoc Police
  • Resisting Arrest – DUI – Physical resistance during DUI arrest
  • Public Intoxication (PC 647(f)) – Being drunk in public in Lompoc
  • Open Container in Vehicle (VC 23222) – Possessing open alcohol while driving on Highway 1
  • Minor in Possession of Alcohol (BP 25662) – Underage possession charges

Arrested for DUI in Lompoc? You have only 10 days to request DMV hearing or lose license automatically. Do not wait. Call +1 (805) 621-7181 immediately—your license, Vandenberg career, and freedom depend on immediate action.

What’s at Stake: Consequences of DUI Convictions

DUI convictions don’t just mean jail time—they destroy your ability to work, drive, and support your family in Lompoc. Here’s what you could be facing:

Immediate Penalties

  • Jail sentences ranging from 48 hours to 1 year for misdemeanor DUI
  • State prison sentences 16 months to 10 years for felony DUI and DUI causing death
  • License suspensions 6 months to permanent revocation preventing Vandenberg commutes
  • Massive fines and fees exceeding $10,000+ when including all costs
  • DUI school requirements 3-30 months attending weekly classes
  • Ignition interlock device installation and monthly monitoring fees
  • 3-5 years formal probation with search conditions and testing

Lifetime Career Destruction

  • Immediate loss of security clearances required for Vandenberg Space Force Base employment
  • Termination from federal correctional officer positions at Federal Correctional Complex Lompoc
  • Military discharge for active duty Space Force personnel at Vandenberg
  • Commercial driver disqualification permanently ending CDL trucking careers essential to Lompoc economy
  • Inability to commute to Vandenberg Space Force Base during license suspension
  • Deportation for non-citizens as crimes involving moral turpitude
  • Insurance increases making driving unaffordable for years

⚠️ 10-Day Deadline: Your license suspends automatically if you don’t request DMV hearing within 10 days. This deadline is absolute. Call immediately for emergency DMV hearing request—your Vandenberg career depends on it.

Why Hiring an Attorney for DUI Is Essential

10-Day DMV Hearing Deadline Is Absolute

The most critical aspect of DUI defense in Lompoc is requesting DMV administrative per se hearing within 10 days of arrest—this deadline cannot be extended, missed deadlines result in automatic license suspension 30 days after arrest, and losing your license means losing ability to commute to Vandenberg Space Force Base for work ending careers for thousands of military personnel, contractors, and federal employees. We immediately request DMV hearings for all DUI clients within 10-day deadline staying automatic suspensions, prepare comprehensive DMV hearing defenses challenging arrest legality and testing procedures, cross-examine California Highway Patrol officers at DMV hearings about traffic stops on Highway 1 and field sobriety test administration, present expert testimony on breath testing inaccuracies and blood alcohol science, and fight to set aside suspensions allowing clients to continue driving to Vandenberg while criminal cases are pending. DMV hearings are separate administrative proceedings where different rules apply—DMV hearing officers are not judges, they work for DMV with incentives to suspend licenses, and without aggressive representation that understands DMV procedures and challenges suspension evidence, you will lose your license even if you ultimately win criminal case at Lompoc Superior Court. For Lompoc residents working at Vandenberg Space Force Base located miles from residential areas with limited public transportation, losing driving privileges means immediate inability to reach work, termination from employment, and economic devastation for families dependent on Vandenberg careers.

Many DUI Cases Involve Illegal Traffic Stops on Highway 1

The majority of DUI arrests in Lompoc begin with traffic stops on Highway 1 or Ocean Avenue by California Highway Patrol or Lompoc Police—and many of these stops violate Fourth Amendment because officers lacked reasonable suspicion to initiate stops. We’ve successfully challenged countless DUI cases by demonstrating through cross-examination of California Highway Patrol officers and video evidence that traffic stops lacked reasonable suspicion when alleged Vehicle Code violations didn’t occur, arguing that stops were pretextual when officers used minor violations as excuses to investigate suspected DUI without reasonable suspicion, showing that officers exceeded scope of traffic stops by detaining drivers for DUI investigation after completing initial traffic violation purposes, and proving that field sobriety test detention lacked probable cause to extend stops. When traffic stops are illegal, all evidence obtained afterward including field sobriety tests, preliminary alcohol screening results, and chemical test results must be suppressed—and without this evidence prosecutors cannot prove DUI charges and must dismiss cases. California Highway Patrol officers patrolling Highway 1 frequently conduct pretextual stops claiming lane violations or equipment issues that video evidence contradicts, and Lompoc Police on Ocean Avenue often stop drivers based on anonymous tips or “hunches” without reasonable suspicion of violations. Without aggressive representation that obtains dashcam and body camera footage, challenges traffic stop legality through suppression motions, and cross-examines officers about inconsistencies between reports and video evidence, you risk convictions based on illegally obtained evidence.

Protecting Vandenberg Security Clearances and CDL Licenses

DUI convictions have catastrophic consequences for Lompoc residents holding security clearances at Vandenberg Space Force Base or commercial driver licenses essential to trucking employment. Even first-time misdemeanor DUI convictions can result in suspension or revocation of security clearances because alcohol-related offenses demonstrate poor judgment, unreliability, and vulnerability to coercion under Department of Defense adjudicative guidelines, while DUI convictions guarantee immediate one-year CDL disqualification for first offense and lifetime disqualification for second offense even when DUI occurred in personal vehicle off-duty. We structure defense strategies specifically to protect Vandenberg security clearances and CDL licenses by pursuing dismissals through suppression of illegally obtained evidence, negotiating wet reckless reductions under VC 23103.5 which are less serious than DUI convictions for clearance purposes, obtaining dry reckless reductions under VC 23103 avoiding priorable DUI entirely when evidence is weak, fighting for acquittals at trial when defenses warrant protecting clean records, and coordinating with security clearance attorneys to minimize Department of Defense adjudication impacts. For commercial drivers in Lompoc’s trucking industry, we fight specifically to avoid any DUI conviction by challenging chemical test results through expert testimony, demonstrating BAC was below .08% while driving through rising blood alcohol defenses, and negotiating non-DUI resolutions that don’t trigger CDL disqualification. Many Space Force airmen, Vandenberg contractors, federal correctional officers, and commercial truck drivers we represent face DUI charges that would permanently destroy careers and livelihoods supporting families—and we fight aggressively to protect not just freedom but employment essential to economic survival in Lompoc’s government-dependent and transportation economy.

Local Experience at Lompoc Superior Court Makes the Difference

DUI prosecutions at Lompoc Superior Court on North H Street require understanding how Santa Barbara County prosecutors evaluate DUI cases and make plea offers, which judges impose harsher sentences versus those more lenient on first-time offenders, how Lompoc juries respond to DUI defenses particularly rising blood alcohol and mouth alcohol contamination, what California Highway Patrol officers from the Highway 1 corridor testify credibly versus those with credibility problems, and how to present expert testimony on blood alcohol pharmacology and breath testing that resonates with Lompoc jurors. We’ve defended hundreds of DUI cases at Lompoc Superior Court, know the prosecutors who handle DUI matters and their policies on wet reckless reductions, understand which California Highway Patrol officers make arrests on Highway 1 and their training records on field sobriety tests, can connect clients with the best DUI experts including toxicologists and forensic alcohol analysts who testify effectively, and know how to litigate suppression motions and DMV hearings in ways that win at Lompoc Superior Court and local DMV office. We also understand the unique dynamics of DUI enforcement in Lompoc—Highway 1 as primary corridor where California Highway Patrol conducts aggressive enforcement and sobriety checkpoints, Ocean Avenue as local Lompoc Police patrol focus on weekend nights, and the devastating impact of license suspensions on Lompoc residents who must commute to Vandenberg Space Force Base located outside town with no public transportation alternatives making driving essential to maintaining employment that supports thousands of families in government-dependent economy.

How Central Coast Criminal Defense Fights DUI Charges

Since 2010, we’ve defended Lompoc residents against DUI charges with a proven, aggressive approach:

  1. Immediate DMV Hearing Request
    We immediately request DMV administrative per se hearing within critical 10-day deadline staying automatic license suspension, file comprehensive requests identifying all suspension issues, coordinate DMV hearing strategy with criminal defense approach, schedule hearings at local DMV office to challenge suspension evidence, and preserve driving privileges essential to commuting to Vandenberg Space Force Base while cases are pending.
  2. Comprehensive Case Investigation
    We obtain all police reports, dashcam footage from California Highway Patrol vehicles on Highway 1, body camera recordings from Lompoc Police, dispatch logs, and chemical test results, investigate traffic stop circumstances to identify Fourth Amendment violations when stops lacked reasonable suspicion, review field sobriety test administration for procedural errors by officers, obtain breath machine calibration and maintenance records from Lompoc Police Department to identify testing inaccuracies, analyze blood test chain of custody and preservation when blood draws occurred, and interview witnesses who observed driving or can testify about alcohol consumption patterns.
  3. Challenging Illegal Traffic Stops
    We file motions to suppress all evidence obtained from illegal traffic stops on Highway 1 and Ocean Avenue when California Highway Patrol or Lompoc Police lacked reasonable suspicion to initiate stops, exceeded scope of stops by detaining for DUI investigation after completing traffic violation purposes, or relied on pretextual reasons to investigate suspected DUI without constitutional justification, litigate suppression hearings through cross-examination of officers and video evidence showing inconsistencies, and secure dismissals when critical evidence is excluded due to Fourth Amendment violations.
  4. Expert Witness Testimony
    We retain forensic alcohol experts and toxicologists to challenge prosecution’s BAC evidence by demonstrating rising blood alcohol when defendant’s BAC was below .08% while driving but rose above limit by testing time due to absorption continuing, proving mouth alcohol contamination when burping or regurgitation shortly before breath testing caused artificially high readings, showing breath testing inaccuracies when machines weren’t properly calibrated or maintained according to Title 17 regulations, establishing blood testing problems when samples weren’t properly preserved or chain of custody was broken, and presenting alternative explanations for field sobriety test performance including medical conditions, fatigue, or nervousness unrelated to intoxication.
  5. DMV Administrative Hearing Defense
    We aggressively fight at DMV administrative per se hearings to set aside license suspensions by cross-examining California Highway Patrol officers about traffic stop legality, arrest procedures, and chemical testing, challenging whether officers had probable cause to arrest based on observations and field sobriety test performance, contesting chemical test results through expert testimony and machine calibration evidence, demonstrating procedural violations in breath or blood testing requiring suspension reversal, and presenting evidence that defendants weren’t driving or weren’t over .08% while driving due to rising blood alcohol.
  6. Skilled Negotiation
    We work with Santa Barbara County prosecutors at Lompoc Superior Court to secure dismissals when evidence is weak due to illegal stops, suppressed evidence, or insufficient proof beyond reasonable doubt, negotiate wet reckless reductions under VC 23103.5 when appropriate avoiding some DUI consequences while remaining priorable, obtain dry reckless reductions under VC 23103 in weak cases avoiding DUI entirely including license suspensions and priorability, reduce felony DUI charges to misdemeanors when injuries are minor or priors are reducible, structure plea agreements avoiding immigration consequences for non-citizens, and negotiate outcomes minimizing impact on Vandenberg security clearances and CDL licenses through charge reductions and favorable probation terms.
  7. Trial Defense
    When cases go to trial at Lompoc Superior Court we present comprehensive defenses challenging California Highway Patrol officer testimony through cross-examination exposing inconsistencies between reports and video evidence, demonstrating rising blood alcohol through expert testimony showing BAC below .08% during driving, proving mouth alcohol contamination explaining artificially high breath test results, showing medical conditions affecting field sobriety test performance unrelated to alcohol including knee problems, back injuries, or neurological conditions, presenting witnesses testifying about defendant’s sobriety, and arguing reasonable doubt based on prosecution’s failure to prove beyond reasonable doubt that defendant was impaired or over .08% while actually driving on Highway 1 or Ocean Avenue.
  8. Vandenberg and CDL Protection
    For clients working at Vandenberg Space Force Base or holding commercial driver licenses we structure defenses specifically to preserve security clearances and CDL eligibility by pursuing outcomes avoiding any DUI conviction through dismissals, dry reckless reductions, or acquittals, coordinating with security clearance attorneys to address Department of Defense concerns about alcohol use and judgment, demonstrating rehabilitation through alcohol education and counseling before case resolution, fighting specifically to avoid CDL disqualification by challenging BAC evidence through experts and rising blood alcohol defenses, and preserving driving privileges essential to commuting to Vandenberg and maintaining trucking employment that supports families in Lompoc’s economy.

Our Lompoc DUI defense practice is built on successfully defending residents at Lompoc Superior Court and DMV hearings. We’ve secured complete dismissals by winning suppression motions excluding evidence from illegal traffic stops on Highway 1, obtained DMV hearing victories setting aside license suspensions allowing clients to continue driving to Vandenberg Space Force Base for work, negotiated wet reckless and dry reckless reductions avoiding DUI convictions and protecting security clearances, won jury trials at Lompoc Superior Court by presenting expert testimony on rising blood alcohol and mouth alcohol contamination, challenged California Highway Patrol officers through cross-examination exposing credibility problems and procedural violations, reduced felony DUI charges to misdemeanors when injuries were minor, and helped countless Lompoc residents avoid DUI convictions that would have permanently destroyed security clearances ending Vandenberg military and contractor careers, caused CDL disqualification ending trucking livelihoods, resulted in license suspensions preventing ability to commute to work, and separated families through jail sentences. We understand that many people arrested for DUI in Lompoc are first-time offenders who made mistakes, Vandenberg Space Force Base personnel whose security clearances and military careers hang in the balance, commercial truck drivers whose CDL licenses are essential to supporting families, or individuals facing charges based on illegal traffic stops on Highway 1 by California Highway Patrol lacking reasonable suspicion—and we fight aggressively to request DMV hearings within 10-day deadlines, challenge illegal stops and testing procedures, protect driving privileges and security clearances, and achieve outcomes that allow clients to move forward with lives, careers, and ability to drive to Vandenberg employment that sustains thousands of families in Lompoc’s government-dependent economy.

When DUI charges threaten your license, your Vandenberg security clearance, and your freedom, you need more than just legal representation—you need an advocate who knows the 10-day DMV deadline and Lompoc Superior Court inside and out. That’s exactly what you get with Central Coast Criminal Defense.

Get Your Free Consultation Today

Don’t wait to protect your license, your Vandenberg career, and your freedom. You have only 10 days to request DMV hearing or your license suspends automatically. Call now for immediate DMV hearing request and emergency consultation about your DUI defense.

Free Case Evaluation

Kit Westbrook and his team are extremely competent, skilled and compassionate lawyers. As an attorney practicing in a different area of the law, I have referred several cases to their office over the years. I know I can always trust the Central Coast Criminal Defense team to provide top-notch representation of clients in need.

Derek Waldron

I don’t even know where I begin with how grateful I am for Central Coast Criminal Defense, specifically Kit and Adrienne. From the moment we first spoke on the phone to when I got the call that they got my case dismissed I truly felt the dedication and support from Kit and Adrienne. Possibly the best part of this experience for me was feeling that these two genuinely cared about me as an individual and believed in my story. I do not have enough great things to say about this firm! They were hard-working, prompt, informative, and affordable! I HIGHLY recommend them to anyone in need of an attorney.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart Kit and Adrienne!!

Hannah Clingerman

I recommend Adrienne Haddad & CCCD to anyone in need of representation in a criminal case. I hired this firm to represent a family member facing a new charge, 2 probation violations & a CPO. The odds were stacked, but Adrienne knocked it out of the park. Our entire family is so grateful 🙏 Worth every penny!

Ashley DiNapoli

Very very satisfied with Adrienne! She has helped out my case more than I could imagine.They make situations very efficient and affordable to anyone in desperate need. My recommendation to anybody who has a tricky DUI situation would to give her a call!

Jose Campoverde

I wanted to hire an attorney to win a court case. After much research, I found Kit Westbrook. I liked his reviews and the help that he has provided in many different situations. After I hired him, he worked his hardest to help me. It did not take long, maybe a week, for him to change the outcome of of my situation. Kit has done for me, something a majority of lawyers would not be able to do. My future will be better because of him. I’m glad he is in this profession and highly recommend him. Also, if you are concerned about money, his prices at Cccd are very affordable.

Kieffer Taylor

I want to let anyone know who needs a criminal attorney on the Central Coast this is the firm to hire. I was in a tough spot arrested for domestic violence when all I did was defend myself against an alcoholic wife who was physically abusing me. Luckily, I took pictures of my injuries and gave them to Kit and Adrienne. These two attorneys are supremely knowledgeable in criminal law and are tenacious for the rights of their clients. Believe me, they will fight for you and never give up. They know the court system here from top to bottom. My case was dismissed. Kit and Adrienne, thank you from the bottom of my heart for all your help

Michael Cody

We are so thankful we chose Central Coast Criminal Defense to represent our son! His case was complicated and took a lot of patience and time to complete. The fees were very reasonable compared to other attorneys. The team went above and beyond what is normally expected including ultimately getting the charges dismissed. Billy and Jamie were awesome and very patient with us while we worked through this process together. Having never been through anything like this as a family they always kept us informed even during the Pandemic. We cannot express how grateful we are to them for all of their hard work!

Paul Lee

In a time of uncertainty and great need, I was fortunate to meet Kit from Central Coast Criminal Defense. After explaining my situation, he explained to me what our options were and how he recommended proceeding. He was always understanding and supportive throughout this entire process. I couldn’t be more grateful for Kit’s knowledge and help. I would recommend Kit and his team to anybody looking for help.

Jason Varley

Adrienne Haddad is the best. I was able to get the legal assistance in a professional and timely manner.

I would highly recommend Central Coast Criminal Defense.

Pale Rider

I contacted CCCD the morning after receiving a DUI. They immediately got to work, and we’re able to save my license from being suspended. During a time when my options appeared limited and the likelihood of a satisfactory resolution seemed almost impossible, Adrienne Haddad was especially helpful to me. Not only was she able to defend me from an unjust accusation, her calm and empathetic demeanor always helped me remain hopeful. I am eternally grateful for her service and I recommend her for legal defense.

Positive
Responsiveness, Quality, Professionalism, Value

Andrea D

I am very pleased with my outcome the staff here are very friendly. Also I want to thank Adrienne for handling my case. Also to James and Kit, You’re awesome .I have refereed friends to this law firm. As a first time dealing with lawyers, It was a good experience. They have Great comminication and were there for me every step of the way and accommodating to my financial situation. So Thank you :)!!!!!!

R3con R3con

I was in need of a consultation regarding a review of court documents for an issue from 20 years ago. I found Central Coast Criminal Defense online and contacted them based on their great reviews. After ringing the firm, I was quickly transferred to attorney Kit Westbrook, who was not only knowledgeable about the legal system, but gave me sound advice about my situation moving forward. Kit immediately reviewed my documents and contacted me right away. I highly recommend this firm to anyone in need of professional legal services.

Rich L

Our first contact with CCCD was with Kit Westbrook. He fully explained the representation they can provide in my son’s situation and was genuinely sympathetic with the stress and anxiety of being charged with a DUI. After explaining their team structure, my son was very fortunate to have been represented by Adrienne Haddad at CCCD. She established an excellent working relationship with me and my son, she communicated very timely and clearly in setting expectations and was highly responsive to calls and emails from us. As a client, we appreciate that level of service and attention. Adrienne is very knowledgeable and experienced in matters of criminal law. The court’s judgement in my son’s case was exactly as she had explained and anticipated in his particular situation. I also want to say that I appreciate that there was no scope creep in their fees…i.e. we paid only what we were originally told. I highly recommend CCCD for anyone needing defense counsel. Thank you Adrienne and Kit.

Victoria Santos

Having lived on the Central Coast since 1979, I can say with complete confidence that Central Coast Criminal Defense represents the best legal defense team in this area. Call them. Kit and Cody literally provided the finest counsel you could ask for and resolved my dilemma to my satisfaction. For your loved ones–or yourself–get in touch with them if you need legal defense. Call them NOW. This paralegal team treated my case with great care and myself and family with dignity at all times. Communication–whether by telephone, email, or in person–was always clear, straightforward, and structured to meet my needs. This team got to know me and my case intimately from the very beginning, and acted with great speed to resolve the situation. Cody Christiansen, my defense attorney, met my legal needs every step of the way. Cody did everything possible to make sure I was secure and safe, leaving no stone untouched in his defense strategy. It was greatly reassuring to partner with a truly professional attorney. Cody acted with intense energy from the moment I met him. This is an attorney who won’t let up for a single moment in service to his client. From my first contact with Central Coast Criminal Defense all the way up to my case dismissal and afterwards, this team was there to support me. Young or old, this is the team you NEED to have representing your interests with professionalism and integrity. They are the real deal.

Alexander Chakshiri

Kit and the whole team at Central Coast Criminal Defense were top-notch experts when it came to the specifics of my charge. I called Kit and was shortly thereafter presented with defense options. Kit went right to work. Thankfully, do to the competent and aggressive counsel by the legal team at Central, my case was dismissed. If you ever run into the unfortunate necessity of having to hire a criminal attorney, I highly recommend Kit and the entire team at Central Coast Criminal Defense. Thanks again.

James Childress

Not enough good things I can say about this law practice from top to bottom. From my first call, the head lawyer was just so good at setting my mind at ease. My assigned lawyer and the support staff continued to be responsive, stress reducing and at the end of the day, utterly effective. Case dismissed! I couldn’t have asked for a better outcome. Needless to say, highly recommend, though hope I never need them again! 😉

Brad Altfest

I needed a criminal defense attorney. I found CCC and they were able to clearly instruct me on the best strategy, and they accomplished everything they said they would.

Cody perfectly handled my situation completely. I felt at ease and that I was in good hands throughout the ordeal. Before Hiring him, I felt the system was completly against me & there wasn’t anything I could do about it… it was scary.
In court, both the judge and the DA treated him with respect. I was very pleased with how well he navagated my case through the court.

Also– I experienced an unexpected hiccup a year down the road and went back to them with this new development… I was totally broke– they helped me again because they felt it was the right thing to do. And again they were able to accomplish what would have been impossible for me to do on my own.

I am very happy I hired them, as the entire team is knowledgable, supportive and agressivly fought for me.

I highly recommend you bring your situation to them & let them give you the best defense possible.

Melvin Kryger

Cody Christianson and his staff provided me with top notch service. My nephew, Jr, was in a bind because the attorney he had hired was doing a poor job of representing him, so we decided to drop that attorney and call Cody. The difference was like night and day. Cody took the case on short notice, with limited amount of time and won. Cody battled for us and we’re grateful to him for everything he did. I would highly recommend him to anyone. I won’t go anywhere else. Thanks guys!!

Steve M

Central Coast Criminal Defense is a reputable and professional entity that assisted me in a very difficult time. The legal ramifications of errant choices can be overwhelming at best. Much appreciation is given to the attorneys who provided consultation and stood up for our family in court. The law is impossible for the lay citizen to navigate. I will be forever grateful for Kit Westbrook and his skill, knowledge, and support. I would recommend him for any legal need you may have. He will solve the problem in the best way possible.

David Becar

Kit Westbrook and Central Coast Criminal Defense provided the best legal representation I could have asked for. Kit was very understanding and made sure to communicate with me frequently while resolving the case. He is incredibly knowledgable and showed genuine kindness towards me during a difficult time. He made the case process much easier and exemplifies everything you hope for in an attorney. Trustworthiness and dependability, thats what you get from Kit and CCCD.

Robin Ruddell

I was charged with DUI so I hired the team at Central Coast Criminal Defense. Although the odds were not on my favor and every piece of evidence was against me, my Attorney, Adrienne Haddad was able to have my DUI reduced to a reckless driving. If I could give them more than 5 stars I would do it.

Sam Damon

I just got a call from Adrienne Haddad at Central Coast Criminal Defense… I hired her to represent me in a charge that I felt was completely unwarranted and I needed help to get it dismissed off my record. I met with her and knew right away she was the attorney I wanted representing me. I was very surprised that the retainer fee was affordable and she was willing to let me make payments. I never even had to step foot into a court room. She did about 5 times for me which saved me from having to take time off work and drive almost 2 hours to each court date. She always called me right after and filled me in on how it went. Just like she did today, and let me know she got it dropped and there will be no record of it. I cant imagine how badly it could have gone if I didnt have her on my side. So Thank you Adrienne! Hopefully I wont ever need an attorney again but if I do I know who I’m calling!!!

Amber Ligon

We have no words to express our gratitude for the incredible work that my criminal attorney did for our father’s case, especially at a time when our options appeared limited. He went above and beyond to get the situation resolved. Hands down the best attorney and law firm!

Clark Murphy

Kit and Adrian were able to give me peace of mind and were very professional. They were able to get my case dismissed before my arraignment. I appreciate them and everything they did for me. Thank you Kit and Adrian!

M M

A few weeks ago, I needed help and had many specific questions. Kit Westbrook took time out of his busy day not only to call me back, but to answer my ALL of my questions. Mr. Westbrook was straight forward, very professional and polite. I would recommend him to anyone who is in need of legal help. Thank you Mr. Westbrook for all of your help.
Respectfully,
Grace Weddle

Positive
Professionalism

Gracie Weddle

Needing a good lawyer is not something we deal with on a daily basis, so when I had a need for one I read reviews from other people. The reviews for CCCD were good so I gave them a call. I was not disappointed . Our case was dealt with in a professional manner and at no time did we feel we were just another case number. Thank you thank you Jimmie for a job well done. I highly recommended CCCD.

Debi Johnson

If you find yourself in need of a great lawyer and a team of legal advisors to help guide you through a difficult and confusing legal system and get you the best possible outcome, then I highly recommend CCCD. This is exactly what Kit and Cody did for my family. Thanks to all the previous great reviews of CCCD for leading me to them.

Teresa J

Without saying to much on my case. I contacted central coast criminals defense for some legal help and “KIT”who represented me was professional, honest and experienced on my case. I highly Recommend this company to anyone who needs a professional lawyer with a friendly caring staff. Thanks kit…

Renee Macias

I am so happy to have found my criminal lawyer and his firm. He was amazing in court and I was glad I had him by my side during the most stressful time of my life. In the end, I wouldn’t have to serve any jail time and would be able to continue with my life, all thanks to my lawyer and this law office!

Paulina Komza

I had a relatively minor legal matter, but Kit was able to successfully advocate the DA on my behalf so no charge was pressed and I simply had to take 2 classes. Kit is effective and will do whatever necessary to make his clients feel they were treated well.

David L

I couldn’t be any happier with Central Coast Criminal Defense. Adrienne was very helpful on explaining and representing me. From now on I’m recommending Central Coast Criminal Defense to any one who needs a lawyer! Thank you Adrienne for all your hard work.

Jose Albarran

I called in regarding advice on a court issue. I had Mr. Kit Westbrook on the phone after nearly no wait time. He reviewed my circumstances and got back to me within an hour with all the information I needed. Super friendly, professional and empathetic. Fantastic!

Micah

I just wanted to write a quick review to CCCD to thank them for going about and beyond to help me with a my legal matter. Adrienne Haddad was super professional and handled my issue quickly and without any headaches. Thank you again for helping me get the best outcome that was possible!!

JIMMY CRUTCHFIELD

Anyone with legal issue should definitely use this law office. My DUI attorney and his team are always available to answer questions, very professional and on point. Highly recommended!

Anna Gratel

This awesome attorney Kit was Truly a man who goes over and beyond to help people. My wife and I are Very thankful for his help and I am Very confident and grateful in expressing my humble feelings about him. This is the Man

josh cruz

Very pleased with my experience with CCCD and specifically Adrienne. Great outcome and pleasure to work with throughout the process.

Chris Rooney

The outcome can never be guaranteed when working with the judicial system. The affordable rates to fit my budget without compromising the quality of service I received, I have and will continue to recommend to others.

Evelynne Griffith

Kit and his crew were amazing. They were there when I needed help and have continued to guide me through a very tough time. Their fees are on par with the services provided and well worth the investment.

Brian Roberts

i was happy with my experience Kit and his team are honest hard working attorneys i would highly recommend them to anyone.

Daniel Costa

I have the highest regard for Kit Westbrook. He has integrity and knows how to navigate through a difficult situation. He is responsive to client needs because he really cares.

Sheri Becar

I was very pleased with the help I received here. Adrienne was very helpful. I had a lot of legal questions and she was very easy to get ahold of. Had very informative answers and I would recommend her to anyone

Melanie Garay

I was visiting friends & family in California and needed some legal help all while I was in Michigan. I called these guys and they helped me out big time, great organization, great people, would use their services again.

Ali Kasra

Kit was great! Helped me with my case in SLO county and made me feel less stress.

Stacy Myers

Loved all of the staff at CCCD, especially Ms. Haddad. Impeccable work! Great outcome! Affordable price!

Martha Stromberg

sincere and honest man you can trust his experience and expect the best outcome possible …thanks Cody ….

Don Laucella

Adrian and Kit really care about their clients and will go the extra mile to help them.

Carlos Leyva

Thank you Adriana you are always very helpful.

K Mabry

Very nice people.

Richard

Atty Kit just saved us from a 1 point driving record conviction, unnecessary attorney’s fees, and certain increased premiums on my young daughter’s car insurance rates.

We were mistakenly under the impression that if she took an illegal left turn (there was poorly posted and confusing signage) citation to court, and lost, that she’d still have the option for traffic school. And we we have been trying for weeks to retain an attorney to represent her, or to get feedback. We even turned to the free bar assn legal referral service who also could not get any help for her. Turns out most attorneys will only take cases involving misdemeanor or felony charges…

Today, we had the fortune of calling Central Coast Criminal Defense and were surprisingly patched through to Atty Kit.

Within 5 minutes at no cost to us – Atty Kit listened to the details and counseled us to save the attorneys fees and for her to go directly to traffic school because the odds are likely that the police officer will appear in court and that the judge will hold up the police officer’s reasoning for the citation.

Once convicted, my daughter would have (i) a guilty verdict with no chance of traffic school (traffic school is off the table when you take a ticket all the way through to trial); (ii) a point on her record; (iii) a guaranteed increase on insurance costs; (iv) a hefty court fine, and, (v) incurred the cost of his attorney fees.

Super appreciate Atty Kit and his office’s business model of screening calls with the opportunity for a quick free consultation. No other attorneys we spoke to boiled it down for us like this and we were very much on the wrong track.

I wish all attorneys were like this, felt like ‘old school’ lawyering!

Stacy Merrill

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