Offenders charged with driving under the influence (DUI) are charged with a criminal offence. In the state of California it is illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. A person is considered to be driving in an intoxicated state if the blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08% or more. DUI attorneys have an expert knowledge of DUI laws. These attorneys are qualified and highly experienced in handling DUI cases. They have in-depth knowledge of all the particulars and nuances involved with DUI offenses. It is required that a California attorney specializing in DUI cases must be have adequate knowledge about blood analysis, breath tests, and urine tests, in order to be able to defend his clients adequately in such cases. They may also have subordinates who work directly with them on such cases. Due to the stringent nature of penalties, DUI defense is a specialized area of criminal defense as such hiring a DUI attorney in California has become a relatively easy process.Before hiring a DUI attorney a person is advised to consider the following questions. Does the attorney focus on DUI cases exclusively?Does the estimate fee include department of motor vehicles (DMV) hearing, expert fees, blood reanalysis, and the trial? Is the attorney licensed by the American Bar Association through the National College for DUI Defense? Apart from this a person is also advised to insist on a written contract setting forth all costs and covered services.DUI is a criminal offense. As such keeping in mind the stringent laws and penalties associated with DUI it is generally advised that people should not consider representing themselves in court. Appointing an attorney who is an expert in the same is always considered to be the safer option.The yellow pages or online websites are a good source of finding an experienced lawyer specializing in DUI. Residents of the State of California who need to contact a DUI attorney with regards to a case of drunken driving can now do so with comparative ease. It is advisable to always be honest with lawyers so they can best protect your interests.