Fresno Felony DUI Defense Lawyer
Proactive Defense for Felony DUI Charges Throughout Fresno County
Being charged with a felony DUI in Fresno is a serious matter that can impact every aspect of your life. The stakes are high, and the legal process can be complex, but you do not have to navigate it on your own. At Sawl Law Group, we focus on building strong, tailored defense strategies designed to protect your rights, minimize potential penalties, and safeguard your future.
California’s DUI laws are intricate, and felony-level charges often involve heightened penalties and more aggressive prosecution. Our approach is to guide you through each stage of the process with clear explanations and strategic planning. From your first consultation through the conclusion of your case, we remain by your side, working to secure the best possible outcome based on the facts and circumstances unique to your situation.
If you are facing a felony DUI charge in Fresno County, the time to act is now. Call us today at (559) 205-7757 or contact us online to discuss your case and begin building your defense.
When a DUI Becomes a Felony in Fresno
In California, a felony DUI is not a separate offense but rather a standard DUI charge elevated to felony status under specific circumstances. Under California Vehicle Code §§ 23152, 23550, and 23153, a DUI can be charged as a felony if:
- You have three or more prior DUI or “wet reckless” convictions within the past 10 years
- You have a prior felony DUI conviction on your record
- You are accused of causing injury or death to another person while driving under the influence
When any of these aggravating factors are present, prosecutors in Fresno County can pursue felony charges, exposing you to far harsher penalties than a misdemeanor DUI. This can include a state prison sentence, fines in the thousands of dollars, a lengthy driver’s license suspension or revocation, mandatory DUI programs, and the long-term stigma of a felony conviction.
The consequences of a felony DUI extend far beyond the courtroom. A conviction can impact your employment prospects, professional licensing, housing opportunities, insurance rates, and personal relationships for years to come. That’s why defending against these charges requires a focused, strategic approach — one that addresses both the immediate legal threats and the broader impact on your life.
Take Control of Your Defense Strategy
At Sawl Law Group, we recognize that facing a felony DUI charge can be daunting. We encourage you to reach out for a consultation to discuss how we can assist in securing your legal rights and building a solid defense strategy. By choosing us, you're opting for a dedicated partner who meticulously navigates the complexities of California's DUI laws for your benefit.
Our commitment to strategic, personalized service ensures that your case receives thorough attention, aiming to alleviate concerns while maximizing your defense options. We believe in a collaborative approach, involving you in every strategic decision and keeping you informed at every stage. Connect with us today at (559) 205-7757 and allow us to help you regain control over your future, empowering you with knowledge and confidence as we navigate this challenging time together.
Clients Trust Us
Award-Winning Reputation with
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"This was such a relief to me. My fee was very affordable, and I was able to be put on a payment arrangement. I couldn’t of asked for better service."
Sawl Law Group was such a big help to me. I would definitely recommend anyone who needs a lawyer to them. I currently live in a different state and was unable to appear in court. Sawl Law Group stood in on my behalf. I was so grateful. In the end my warrant was recalled, and I was able to complete the stipulations of my case in my current state. This was such a relief to me. My fee was very affordable, and I was able to be put on a payment arrangement. I couldn’t of asked for better service. My person of contact was Claudia, and she was very helpful, and informative. She answered all my questions, always contacted me back when a message was left, and was always available for me. She walked me through the whole process and I appreciate her support. I just want to thank my lawyer Michelle for working on my behalf and Sawl Law Group for helping me out when I most needed it. So if your searching for a good lawyer who would work on your behalf, please choose Sawl Law Group.
- Michelle G. -
"Had it not been for Sawl Law Group, I would not have been as far as I am today in my military career."This is by far the most experienced and professional team of lawyers I've had the pleasure of working with. The staff was amazing, polite and very attentive to all my questions and needs regarding my case. Mr. Taleisnik was very reassuring regarding the best possible outcome for my case. While preparing my case I was kept well informed and was consistently and accurately updated with any new information. Had it not been for Sawl Law Group, I would not have been as far as I am today in my military carrier. I highly recommend this professional and well experienced team of attorney's.- James M.
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"They are experienced in accident cases and fight for what money you deserve. They are honest and inform their clients on what to expect."
I highly recommend this firm. They are very busy, so sometimes you may need to be persistent in calling them. BUT they are experienced in accidents cases and fight for what money you deserve. They are honest and inform their clients on what to expect. Their lien doctors are excellent. You get all the medical treatment you need.
- April R. -
"Right away you can see this is a very professional firm. They did everything they said they would, including working things out so I did not have to appear in court."
This was the first time I had needed to hire an attorney. I met with 7 different lawyers before I decided. Right away you can see this is a very professional firm. They did everything they said they would, including working things out so I did not have to appear in court. I am very pleased with the service and the way the case was handled. I would and do recommend them to my friends.
- Satisfied Client -
"I highly recommend Martin Taleisnik to anyone needing legal representation and would seek him out again, if needed."
Our Experience with the Sawl Law Group was only positive. My adult son was in serious trouble and refused to follow our extended family’s advice on how to plea, so as to enable him to get the help we thought he needed. Martin Taleisnik represented us and went above and beyond his call-to-duty on repeatedly meeting with our son and trying to talk sense into him. Because of his familiarity with the D.A.’s and judges, he was able to counsel us as to what to expect and whom to avoid, if possible.
All we were concerned about was that my son would get a fair hearing and not be swept aside by the court process. During one court appearance, Mr. Taleisnik was in the judge’s chambers for over 20 minutes, presenting the mitigating factors in my son’s case. At the sentencing hearing, Mr. Taleisnik gave an impassioned speech to the judge which persuaded the judge to give my son probation. During that speech, a female sitting behind us in court tapped us on the shoulder and told us that she was impressed by our attorney.
Regarding the fee. We were quoted a reasonable global fee that would cover anything that would transpire, short of a trial. My son’s case was continued almost monthly for 6 months, due to his co-defendant and other court procedures. Mr. Taleisnik was always there, on time, and would speak to us afterward in the hall, at length, about what the proceedings meant and what the next step was.
I highly recommend Martin Taleisnik to anyone needing legal representation and would seek him out again, if needed.
- Chanah C. -
"I would highly recommend the Sawl Law group to family and friends if they were ever in need of their services."
Just wanted to thank the Sawl Law group for a job well done. Corina did a great job and was very helpful. Corina explained the procedure in great detail. She always kept me well informed and always made herself available to me via phone, email and in person. I would highly recommend the Sawl Law group to family and friends if they were ever in need of their services.
Thanks again for all your help and hard work!
- Google Reviews – Juan G. -
"Corina is always responsive and makes you feel like a friend."Corina Burchfield walked me step by step through the whole process she is very professional definitely recommend her. She is always responsive and makes you feel like a friend.- Google Review - Brianna M.
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"They were able to lower my DUI to a much lesser charge of “Wet Reckless” saving me thousands of dollars, and time. So thank you Sawl Law Group, Claudia, and Michelle."
I just wanted to say a few things about Sawl Law Group. I had never needed to hire an attorney before, so I didn’t know what I was doing, or what to expect. When i had just been charged with a DUI; I had a pile of law offices to choose from. The first one that stood out was Sawl Law Group. They were very professional, and welcoming. Claudia made a long drive, just to meet with me face to face, and have a short conversation about my case, and my options. She made me feel confident that I could do much better than I had hoped. Claudia paired me up with Michelle, the attorney that would then, represent me. She took care of all my court dates (after signing a document of course) which was especially helpful with my crazy work schedule. Not only that, but they were able to lower my DUI to a much lesser charge of “Wet Reckless” saving me thousands of dollars, and time. So thank you Sawl Law Group, Claudia, and Michelle. And to anyone else who finds themselves in a bind; I definitely recommend starting here!
- Justin R.