An option for DUI lawyers, especially at sententing, is the licensed substance abuse expert.  An expert can help at any DUI level, whether it's the misdemeanor first time DUI or the felony DUI with injury.  The purpose of the expert is to present a neutral source for the judge to bolster the argument that the defendant is in need of treatment, not imprisonment. 

Obviously, finding an expert who has the experience and credibility is crucial.  In the San Francisco Bay Area, there are many sources to find a qualified expert that will help sway the judge.  So, when first meeting with your client, think about whether a substance abuse expert could be helpful.