The 5 Best DUI Lawyers in San Jose (2026)

Updated November 2026 · 5 firms · California law

The best DUI lawyers in San Jose in 2026 include Nan L. Bucknell for felony and repeat DUI and visa concerns, Roberts | Elliott Law Corp. for DMV hearings, Vijay Law, Ahmed & Sukaram, and Summit Defense.

The list at a glance

FirmOfficeFocusBest for
1. Nan L. BucknellThe AlamedaFelony, repeat and first-offense DUIClients on a visa
2. Roberts | Elliott Law Corp.Campbell & West ValleyDUI and DMV hearingsLong-time local DUI representation
3. Vijay LawDowntown San JoseDUIDowntown clients
4. Ahmed & SukaramThe AlamedaDUIPeninsula and San Jose clients
5. Summit Defense (San Jose)North San JoseDUINorth San Jose clients

A California DUI arrest usually starts two cases: the criminal charge and a DMV suspension. You generally have only 10 days to request a DMV hearing. If you're on a visa, tell your lawyer first, because a DUI can have immigration effects.

1. Nan L. Bucknell — The Alameda

Detailed DUI list with DMV hearings.

Focus Felony, repeat and first-offense DUIBest for Clients on a visa

Nan L. Bucknell handles DUI with injuries, felony DUI, misdemeanor DUI, repeat offenses and DMV hearings, and addresses H-1B and DACA effects.

1010 W Taylor St, San Jose, CA 95126

Firm profile 408-286-9210 Website Google Maps

2. Roberts | Elliott Law Corp. — Campbell & West Valley

Over 35 years, per the firm.

Focus DUI and DMV hearingsBest for Long-time local DUI representation

Roberts | Elliott Law Corp. has defended drunk driving charges in Santa Clara County for over 35 years, per the firm, and handles DMV hearings.

1875 S Bascom Ave, Suite 2400, Campbell, CA 95008

Firm profile 408-275-9800 Website Google Maps

3. Vijay Law — Downtown San Jose

DUI within a trial practice.

Focus DUIBest for Downtown clients

Vijay Dinakar defends DUI along with domestic violence and other criminal cases from North Market Street.

255 N Market St, Suite 280, San Jose, CA 95110

Firm profile 408-275-2307 Website Google Maps

4. Ahmed & Sukaram — The Alameda

San Jose and Redwood City offices.

Focus DUIBest for Peninsula and San Jose clients

Ahmed & Sukaram handles DUI within a wider defense practice serving Santa Clara and San Mateo counties.

1625 The Alameda, Suite 405, San Jose, CA 95126

Firm profile 650-299-0500 Website Google Maps

5. Summit Defense (San Jose) — North San Jose

Free consultations, per the firm.

Focus DUIBest for North San Jose clients

Summit Defense offers free consultations to people facing DUI charges around the Bay Area.

2570 N 1st St, 2nd Floor, San Jose, CA 95131

Firm profile 408-333-9622 Website Google Maps

Frequently asked questions

How long do I have to save my license after a DUI in California?

You generally have 10 days from receiving the suspension order to request a DMV hearing. It's a separate case from the criminal charge, so call a lawyer right away and check your paperwork.

Is a first DUI a misdemeanor in California?

Usually, yes, with fines, license consequences, and DUI school, and possibly jail. Injury or prior convictions can make it more serious.

Will a DUI affect my immigration status?

It can. If you aren't a citizen, or you're on a visa, ask about immigration consequences before any plea.