If you have been arrested or charged in Honolulu, the next 48 hours matter. Hawaii calls drunk-driving OVUII (Operating a Vehicle Under the Influence of an Intoxicant), and a first offense can mean license revocation, an ignition interlock requirement, and a mandatory alcohol assessment. Most criminal cases on Oahu run through the District Court or the Circuit Court of the First Circuit in downtown Honolulu. Below: vetted Honolulu criminal defense lawyers who handle OVUII, drug charges, assault, theft, and felony cases, with free or low-cost first consultations.
Updated April 18, 2026
Some minor citations can be handled alone, but a criminal charge in Honolulu is worth a free consultation before you say anything. Talk to a Honolulu criminal defense lawyer if:
Many Honolulu criminal defense lawyers charge a flat fee for a defined case. A first-offense OVUII or simple misdemeanor often runs $1,500 to $5,000; felony cases usually start around $5,000 and rise with complexity and whether the case goes to trial. Some lawyers bill hourly at $250 to $450. Ask exactly what the fee covers (hearings, trial, ADLRO license proceedings) before you sign, and get the fee agreement in writing.
For a national overview, see our criminal defense guide, or browse all Honolulu lawyers. Honolulu also has dedicated pages for Honolulu immigration, Honolulu personal injury, Honolulu workers' comp.
A long-established Honolulu trial lawyer known for serious felony and high-profile criminal defense. A fit when the stakes are high and you want a seasoned courtroom advocate.
A Honolulu firm handling state and federal criminal matters and appeals. A good fit for complex or federal charges where experience matters.
An Oahu criminal defense practice that handles the full range of misdemeanor and felony charges, including OVUII. A fit for everyday criminal cases where you want focused defense.
A Honolulu firm covering criminal defense and weapons cases. A fit for clients who want a lawyer comfortable with both trial work and negotiated resolutions.
A veteran Honolulu defense attorney known for major felony and federal cases. A fit for the most serious charges that may go to trial.
A Honolulu practice handling OVUII and misdemeanor defense, including ADLRO license matters. A fit for first-offense drivers who want to protect their license.
See the full ranked write-up in our Top 10 criminal defense lawyers in Honolulu guide. Firm details are gathered from public sources; ratings not shown are not yet aggregated.
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