Business Details
30 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Santa Barbara DUI & Criminal Defense Attorney
Law Offices Of William C Makler has dedicated over 27 years to defending individuals facing criminal charges in Santa Barbara County. As a former public defender and federal litigator, he brings unparalleled expertise in DUI defense, drug crimes, assault cases, and complex felony prosecutions. Our firm combines deep legal knowledge with a client-centered approach, offering 24/7 availability for urgent matters and free initial consultations.We prioritize transparent communication, leveraging decades of courtroom experience to challenge evidence, negotiate favorable outcomes, and protect clients' rights throughout California's state and federal courts.
Services
DUI Defense
Drug Possession
Theft Crimes
Assault & Battery
Domestic Violence
Criminal Record Expungement
DMV Hearings
Juvenile Defense
White Collar Crimes
Probation Violations
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- 27 years of specialized criminal defense experience in California courts
- Former public defender with insider knowledge of prosecution strategies
- Available 24/7 for urgent legal matters and consultations
- Proven track record in complex DUI and felony cases
- Client-focused approach with free initial consultations
Associations and certifications
- Martindale-Hubbell
- Super Lawyers
- State Bar of California
What people say
Best legal team
Compassionate and transparent
Case dismissed
Exceptional outcome
Highly responsive
Services
DUI Defense
Specialized defense against DUI charges including blood alcohol disputes, field sobriety test challenges, and DMV license hearings. Our firm leverages technical expertise in chemical testing analysis and procedural violations to minimize penalties and protect driving privileges.
Drug Possession
Comprehensive defense for drug-related offenses covering possession, cultivation, and distribution charges. We challenge unlawful searches, negotiate diversion programs, and advocate for treatment alternatives to incarceration while protecting clients' future opportunities.
Criminal Record Expungement
Legal assistance for clearing criminal records through expungement, dismissal, or sealing processes. Our firm helps clients overcome past convictions' barriers to employment, education, and immigration status through strategic legal interventions.
Assault & Battery
Aggressive defense representation for assault, battery, and deadly weapon charges. We challenge evidence admissibility, negotiate reduced charges, and protect clients from 'Three Strikes' law consequences while maintaining constitutional rights.
Domestic Violence
Strategic defense against domestic violence allegations including restraining orders, probation violations, and mandatory counseling requirements. Our approach balances courtroom advocacy with minimizing long-term personal and professional consequences for clients.
People
Law Offices Of William C Makler
Criminal Defense Attorney
With 27 years of legal experience, Mr. Makler specializes in DUI defense and criminal litigation. A former public defender and federal litigator, he teaches legal courses and maintains AV Preeminent ratings for ethical standards and professional ability.
Questions
What should I do immediately after a DUI arrest?
Contact our office immediately to preserve evidence, schedule DMV hearings, and begin building your defense strategy with experienced legal counsel.
Can first-time DUI charges be reduced?
Yes, our firm challenges evidence admissibility, negotiates plea alternatives, and utilizes diversion programs to minimize penalties for first-time offenders.
How does your firm handle domestic violence cases?
We combine aggressive courtroom defense with strategic negotiations to reduce charges while addressing collateral consequences like restraining orders and employment impacts.
Do you handle juvenile criminal cases?
Yes, we specialize in juvenile defense, focusing on record clearance and minimizing long-term consequences while protecting minors' educational and immigration prospects.
What payment options are available?
We offer competitive flat fees for specific services and flexible payment arrangements, with all costs discussed during your free initial consultation.
Can you help with out-of-state clients?
Our California-licensed attorneys represent local clients but can assist out-of-state individuals with case coordination and court appearances in Santa Barbara County.
