Washington DC DUI Lawyer

Defending Your License. Protecting Your Security Clearance.

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 614 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
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   Charlie Novoa 
 September 2, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Esteban Gergely and his whole team are the best in the game hands down. His knowledge of the law, dedication to his clients and passion to win are simply unmatched. His staff are all super friendly, quick and thorough. Kelly was amazing through the whole process, the communication was above and beyond. Glenda is also someone I’ve worked with and she was nothing but pleasant as well. This team will give you a sense of confront regardless on the situation. When i first approached Esteban i was a mess but his first words were “relax, go on about your life as you normally would, leave the stresses of the case up to me, i got you” and he delivered. Not only did i have peace of mind the whole time but even if we hit any obstacles he overcame each one. Hired him on multiple occasions and will continue to do so if ever needed.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Wotzbeli Lopez 
 August 27, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excelente servicio
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Dawn Wong 
 August 21, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I cannot say enough wonderful things about Krum, Gergely and Oates, LLC. From the very beginning, I felt that I was in capable, caring, and dedicated hands. Everyone at the firm was professional, compassionate, responsive, and genuinely invested in my case.

David Krum went above and beyond to advocate for me and guide me through an incredibly difficult and emotional process. His knowledge, dedication, and persistence gave me confidence when I needed it most. I always felt that my best interests were truly his priority.

I am incredibly grateful for the hard work and commitment of the entire team and for the outcome they helped me achieve. After everything I went through, having an exceptional legal team in my corner made all the difference.

I highly recommend Krum, Gergely and Oates, LLC to anyone looking for attorneys who are knowledgeable, dedicated, compassionate, and truly committed to their clients.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Maikol Vicente 
 August 21, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excelente servicio
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Vensh Kataria 
 August 17, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had an excellent experience working with my lawyer David Krum and would highly recommend him. From the very beginning, he was professional, knowledgeable, and attentive. He took the time to explain every step of my case clearly, kept me informed throughout the entire process.

What I appreciated most was how confident and reassured I felt having him represent me. He was responsive, thorough, and genuinely seemed to care about achieving the best possible outcome for my case. His guidance made what could have been a very stressful experience feel much more manageable.

I’m extremely grateful for his hard work, dedication, and support.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   keilyn miranda 
 August 14, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’m truly grateful for everything this law office did throughout the case. From the beginning, they were professional, attentive, and genuinely caring. They took the time to explain things, answered every question, and kept us informed throughout the process. You could tell they really cared about helping and doing their best for their client. We felt supported and confident having them on our side. I would highly recommend this office to anyone looking for an attorney who is knowledgeable, professional, and truly cares about their clients!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Levi Raymundo 
 August 13, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Primera mente agradecido con Dios y después con mi abogado  xq  me ademostrado con echos   xq e ganado mi caso  con el  selos recomiendo  a cualquier persona   gracias abogado   x todo solo agradezco  de todo corazón Dios me lo vendiga
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Jordan Brooke 
 August 13, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a great experience working with the team at KGO. They made sure to keep an open line of communication and made sure I was informed about my case at every step of the way. Esteban was very reassuring and professional and ensured the best possible outcome when representing me in court. Truly a wonderful team!

You were just released, and now you are holding paperwork that can change your life. A DUI charge in Washington, D.C. is not a simple traffic ticket. It is a criminal case filed in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, and it carries the real risk of losing your driver’s license, facing mandatory jail time, and damaging your career. Working with a skilled DC DUI lawyer immediately can make the difference between protecting your record and facing long-term consequences.

This is the moment where fast action matters. What you do in the next few hours and days can determine whether you keep your license and avoid the harshest penalties under D.C. law.

Act Within 10 Days or Lose Your License

After a DUI arrest in D.C., you are issued a Notice of Proposed Revocation. This triggers a strict 10-day deadline to request a hearing with the District of Columbia Department of Motor Vehicles Adjudication Services.

If you do not request this hearing within 10 days, your license will be automatically suspended. This happens regardless of what occurs in your criminal case.

A timely request gives you the opportunity to challenge the stop, the arrest, and the basis for the revocation. Missing this deadline removes one of your most important defenses before your case even begins.

Mandatory Jail Time Is Built Into DC DUI Law

Washington D.C., imposes mandatory minimum jail sentences based on blood alcohol concentration levels.

A BAC of 0.20 or higher carries a minimum of 10 days in jail
A BAC of 0.25 or higher carries a minimum of 15 days in jail
A BAC of 0.30 or higher carries a minimum of 20 days in jail

These are not maximum penalties. These are the required minimums that judges must impose if a conviction occurs. Early legal strategy is critical to avoid outcomes that trigger these penalties.

How DUI Cases Are Prosecuted in Washington DC

DUI cases are prosecuted by the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia. These prosecutors handle misdemeanor DUI offenses and move cases quickly through the court system.

For many first-time offenders, there may be opportunities to resolve the case through structured diversion programs. Options like the Traffic Alcohol Program or Deferred Sentencing Agreements can allow you to complete conditions such as classes or monitoring in exchange for a dismissal.

The key is positioning your case early so you qualify for these outcomes before the prosecution takes a harder stance.

Defense That Targets the Evidence

A strong DUI defense in D.C. goes beyond basic arguments. It requires a technical review of how the evidence was collected and whether it meets strict legal standards.

We analyze the reliability of the Intoximeter EC/IR II, the breath-testing device used in D.C., based on calibration records and maintenance history. We also examine whether the officer administering the test was properly certified as a Chemical Test Technician and followed the required procedures.

In addition, we review the traffic stop itself, field sobriety testing, and body camera footage to identify any constitutional violations or procedural errors that can weaken the government’s case.

What To Expect Inside The DC Court Process

Your case will move through the Superior Court of the District of Columbia quickly.

It begins with an arraignment, where the charge is formally presented, and conditions of release are set. From there, the case proceeds through status hearings where negotiations and motions take place.

At every stage, strategic decisions are made that can impact whether your case is reduced, dismissed, or taken to trial. Early intervention gives you the strongest position before the prosecution builds momentum.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a DUI a felony or a misdemeanor in Washington DC?

Most DUI charges in D.C. are classified as misdemeanors and carry up to 180 days in jail. However, high BAC levels trigger mandatory minimum jail sentences that must be imposed upon conviction.

What happens if I refuse the breath test in DC?

Under D.C. implied consent laws, refusing a breath test results in an automatic one-year license revocation. This penalty is separate from the criminal case and can take effect quickly without proper legal action.

Can I get a restricted permit to drive to work in DC?

In some cases, drivers may qualify for a Limited Occupational License that allows travel to and from work or essential activities. Eligibility depends on the specific facts of your case and whether you act quickly.

What is the difference between a DUI and a DWI in the District?

A DUI refers to being impaired by alcohol or drugs to the extent that it affects your ability to operate a vehicle. A DWI is based on a measurable BAC of 0.08 or higher, even if there is no visible impairment.

Speak With a DC DUI Lawyer Before It Is Too Late

A DC DUI charge moves fast, and the 10-day DMV clock is already ticking. Do not risk a mandatory jail sentence or a year-long license revocation by waiting. Fill out our contact form immediately to speak with a DC DUI lawyer at The Law Offices of Krum, Gergely, & Oates.