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Trusted DUI & Criminal Defense Lawyers in Riverside County
At The Law Office Of Michael W Donaldson, we are a dedicated team of criminal defense and DUI defense attorneys committed to providing exceptional legal representation. With decades of combined experience, our firm specializes in navigating complex DUI cases, including marijuana DUI, drug DUI, and DUI causing injury, as well as criminal defense matters such as domestic violence, reckless driving, and appeals. Our attorneys, Lara Gressley and Mike Donaldson, are recognized leaders in their fields, with accolades including Super Lawyers designations, leadership roles in the California DUI Lawyers Association, and extensive appellate experience.We prioritize client-centered advocacy, offering personalized strategies tailored to each case's unique circumstances. Our track record includes numerous dismissals, reduced charges, and favorable verdicts, reflecting our commitment to protecting clients' rights and achieving optimal outcomes. We serve Riverside County, Murrieta, and Temecula, providing 24/7 availability and compassionate support during critical times.
Services
DUI Defense
Criminal Defense
Appeals
Domestic Violence Defense
Drug DUI Cases
DMV License Suspension
Felony DUI Defense
Underage DUI
Commercial DUI
Criminal Appeals
Highlights and features
- Recognized leaders in DUI and criminal defense with decades of experience.
- Proven track record of dismissals, reduced charges, and favorable verdicts.
- 24/7 availability for urgent legal matters and client support.
- Personalized defense strategies tailored to each client's unique case.
- Leadership roles in national legal organizations and appellate expertise.
Associations and certifications
- California DUI Lawyers Association
- National College for DUI Defense
- Super Lawyers
What people say
Compassionate and empathetic
Highly recommend
Fantastic results
Responsive and detailed
Trusted legal ally
Services
DUI Defense
Our DUI Defense service specializes in challenging charges related to alcohol and drug-related driving offenses. With expertise in field sobriety test challenges, breathalyzer accuracy, and DMV license suspensions, we provide tailored strategies to reduce or dismiss charges. Our attorneys leverage decades of experience in Riverside County courts to protect clients' rights and driving privileges.
Criminal Appeals
Criminal Appeals focus on overturning unjust convictions through meticulous case review and strategic legal arguments. Our team, led by appellate expert Lara Gressley, handles complex appeals for DUI and felony cases, utilizing deep knowledge of procedural errors and constitutional violations to secure favorable outcomes in higher courts.
Domestic Violence Defense
Domestic Violence Defense addresses charges involving family or household members. We provide assertive representation to challenge evidence, protect clients' reputations, and minimize penalties. Our approach combines legal expertise with sensitivity to clients' personal circumstances, aiming to dismiss charges or negotiate reduced sentences while safeguarding future opportunities.
Drug DUI Cases
Drug DUI Cases require specialized knowledge of impairment testing and substance-related laws. We challenge unreliable drug recognition evaluations and laboratory errors to defend against charges involving prescription or illegal drugs. Our strategies focus on scientific scrutiny of evidence and constitutional protections to achieve case dismissals or reduced charges for clients in Riverside County.
DMV License Suspension
DMV License Suspension defense targets administrative penalties following DUI arrests. We represent clients in DMV hearings to challenge license revocations, utilizing technical legal arguments and procedural defenses. Our goal is to preserve driving privileges through hardship license applications or case dismissals, ensuring minimal disruption to clients' personal and professional lives.
People
Lara Gressley
Attorney
Lara Gressley is a renowned appellate lawyer and former President of the California DUI Lawyers Association. With expertise in complex DUI cases and appellate law, she has worked on landmark cases in the U.S. Supreme Court and California Supreme Court. Recognized as a Super Lawyer, Lara combines legal scholarship with compassionate advocacy to protect clients' rights.
Mike Donaldson
Attorney
Mike Donaldson is a National College for DUI Defense-trained attorney with extensive trial experience. A Super Lawyer awardee, he specializes in DUI defense, drug cases, and criminal appeals. Mike is known for his client-focused approach, achieving dismissals and reduced charges while maintaining open communication and personalized attention throughout legal proceedings.
Questions
What should I do immediately after a DUI arrest?
Contact Gressley & Donaldson immediately. We'll review your case, explain your rights, and develop a defense strategy to challenge evidence and protect your driving privileges.
Can DUI charges be reduced or dismissed?
Yes. Our attorneys have successfully reduced charges to reckless driving or secured dismissals by challenging field sobriety tests, breathalyzer accuracy, and procedural violations during arrests.
How do I choose the right DUI attorney?
Look for proven experience in DUI law, trial success, and client-focused representation. Our attorneys have Super Lawyers recognition and leadership roles in DUI legal organizations.
What are the penalties for a DUI causing injury?
Felony DUI causing injury can result in prison time, fines, and license suspension. We challenge evidence and negotiate plea deals to minimize consequences while protecting your future.
Do you handle DMV hearings for license suspension?
Yes. We represent clients in DMV hearings to challenge license revocations following DUI arrests, aiming to preserve driving privileges through legal arguments and hardship license applications.
