Diego J Vargas

Diego J Vargas

also known as The Vargas Law Firm, PLLC

5.0
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 31 years

DUI and DWI Lawyer at Bellevue, WA
Practice Areas: DUI & DWI, Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence ... +2 more

3326 160th Avenue SE, Suite 215, Bellevue, WA

About Diego

Biography

Practice Areas

5

Practice Areas

DUI and DWI 50%

Vehicular Homicide, Vehicular Assault, Felony DUI, and Misdemeanor DUI.

26 years

50%
Criminal Defense 20%

Felonies and Misdemeanor Criminal Defense.

26 years

20%
Domestic Violence 10%

Assault, Malicious Mischief, Violations of no contact orders

26 years

10%
Juvenile Law 10%

All Juvenile Crimes

10%
Violent Crime 10%

Assaults, etc.

26 years

10%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 90 minutes

Retainer

Always


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

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Licenses

Licensed in Washington for 25 years

State: Washington

Acquired: 2000

Active

No misconduct found

Licensed in Texas for 31 years

State: Texas

Acquired: 1994

Inactive

No misconduct found

Location

The Vargas Law Firm, PLLC

3326 160th Avenue SE, Suite 215, Bellevue, WA, 98008

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Diego J Vargas's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

76 Client Reviews

Filter Avvo Reviews (76) Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.

Showing 6 - 10 of 32 reviews | Practice Area Knowledge

Posted by Local Software Engineer | December 13, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

The Best Trial Lawyer

I married an immigrant and brought her and family here to US, after about a year I noticed that my wife was only really interested in money and immigration. After over a year had passed, I wanted to separate as seemed our relationship could not be fixed. As a backup plan my wife planned and falsely a...ccused me of Domestic Violence in order to obtain a special immigration Visa and to take control of my home. The typical false accusations you read about happening to others, but happened to me. I knew I wanted to best trial lawyer I could find and did some research; and found Mr. Vargas. I spoke to Mr. Vargas and he understood the situation immediately and knew exactly what I wanted to do and how to approach the case without me telling him. A real pleasure and relief as I needed assistance in communicating my story; and the trial would be the only place where I could have that opportunity. Mr. Vargas approached the case at the speedy manner I wanted to so I could take this to trial and recover my home. Additionally, Mr. Vargas would always return my phone calls immediately and respond to emails no matter where he was at the time. An extremely strong work ethic which I agree with this philosophy to get things done. After refusing the dismissal deal at Mr. Vargas recommendation and my agreement we took case to trial, the jury quickly delivered a Not Guilty. Now I am able to put my life back together. Thank you Diego, for your hard work and dedication!

Posted by Imad | November 21, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

He more than deserves the accreditations on his website

I am still emotional after winning my case in court this afternoon but I want to recognize Mr. Vargas. I was unjustly charged with a crime about 15 months ago and wanted to hire a top attorney. I researched, I asked and I spoke to a few attorneys. Mr. Vargas was recommended by a friend. After speakin...g with him in his office, he seemed like a good ethical man and his contract was straightforward and clear. His fee was fair and included if the case goes to trial, I retained Mr. Vargas on the spot. Like I think everyone else I did not know if I can trust an attorney. Mr. Vargas has not spoken about money ever since then. I have been going to court and communicating with Mr. Vargas for 14 months. No matter if I called him, texted or sent him emails he replied almost immediately and answered all my questions. A few months ago I Mr. Diego presented me with plea deal offer from the prosecutor, which probably most people would have taken. But it meant that I would have to plea guilty to something. I asked Diego one question, which is "if you think I did something wrong by doing this..." then I will pleas. Diego sent me a very quick response saying I believe you are innocent also. My case went to trial yesterday. Mr. Vargas is a great trial attorney, he is intelligent, and he fought for me in a very respectful manner. It was a difficult time for me sitting in court but his competence and professionalism with the Judge and the prosecutor made me feel that there was still good people and respect in this world. earlier this afternoon, the Jury went in to deliberate, the plan was that after 15 minutes they were going to ask them if they wanted to break for lunch or continue to deliberate. Mr. Vargas, my wife and I went into a private room in the court. After about 5 or 6 minutes there was a knock on the door. The prosecutor said "they are ready". We walked into the court room and they announced a verdict of "Not guilty". I'm a 58 year old man but I cried. Mr. Vargas always believed in my innocence and his closing statement was so clear and straight and truthful, he explained the law and how the facts and testimony from my side and from the prosecution star witness side pointed to not guilty. It is refreshing to know that there are ethical lawyers that are rated as Top lawyers. Thank-you Diego again for everything!

Posted by Joe | November 15, 2019 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

Excellent Defense Lawyer

Diego has represented me in 2 DUI cases. He was always extremely knowledgeable, gave great advice, and was very reassuring in a stressful time. Both cases were resolved in a way that were best case scenarios for the circumstances, and he always did everything within the law to protect my rights. H...e also will continue to promptly answer questions after the resolution of the case, and will continue to represent you through the entire process even through any probation periods that may be associated.

Posted by A. L. | November 12, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Litigation

Incredible attention to detail and professionalism

Diego is so competent, objective, and precise that it takes no time to trust him and his guidance. His attention to detail each step of the way, and the way he was able to handle my litigation were outstanding and I would recommend him highly for anyone in need of a true expert, fair, and experienced... attorney.

Posted by Florin | November 09, 2019 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

Ms

Excellent performance and support for my goals as an overall not just only for DUI. I do consider him as a good friend of the family.

See All Client Reviews

Diego J Vargas's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Diego
Ann Zajdel Gruben headshot
Ann Gruben

DUI and DWI lawyer | Nov 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"When I think of Diego, an SAT list of the complementary adjectives pops into my head... Indefatigable. Tenacious. Stalwart. Diego is one of the best in front of a jury and works extremely hard for his clients."

Shawn Mccully headshot
Shawn Mccully

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 27

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Diego is the best trial lawyer I know in Washington. He isn't afraid of any case and will try anything to get a client justice and a fair trial. I highly recommend Diego!"

Mark R Stephens headshot
Mark Stephens

DUI and DWI lawyer | May 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. An expert in DUI/Defense and highly respected among prosecutors, judges, and his peers."

Matthew C Simon headshot
Matthew Simon

DUI and DWI lawyer | Apr 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Vargas' responses on Avvo are very insightful and helpful. He has a great understanding of the law. I endorse this lawyer without hesitation"

Jamal Amirzade headshot
Jamal Amirzade

Unknown lawyer | Apr 10

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Without a doubt Diego is by far the best DUI attorney in Washington. I have seen Diego in trial and I was amazed by his performance and enthusiasm. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a DUI attorney."

Clayton Harold Walker Jr. headshot
Clayton Walker

DUI and DWI lawyer | Mar 19

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

Joseph Halder Marshall headshot
Joseph Marshall

DUI and DWI lawyer | Mar 14

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Diego is without question a brilliant DUI and criminal defense attorney of the highest order, with powerful trial skills and a unique way with people that wins over prosecutors and juries, and wins results for his client's good above all."

Edwin Lee Aralica headshot
Edwin Aralica

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Diego is a "lawyer's lawyer." One of the best trial lawyers here in King County. In addition, to DUI defense I saw Diego defend a gentleman in a felony assault case. He won it on a self-defense claim. I highly endorse him."

David O headshot
David O

DUI and DWI lawyer | May 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Diego is a great attorney. I consider him the trial warrior. He goes to battle for his clients and gets good results."

Henry King Chae headshot
Henry Chae

DUI and DWI lawyer | Mar 22

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer without reservation He is the Manny Pacquiao or Mohammed Ali of DUI defense to use a boxing analogy. In other words, a Super Lawyer, a true fighter and winner. He's a consummate advocate and relentless fighter for his clients. I had the pleasure and (headache) of going up against him in numerous trials awhile back and let's just say he really makes the prosecutors work to the point of causing migraine-like headaches; when he puts the prosecutors to the test of proving the case and making them work for it, he is doing justice for his client and making the system work. He is a great trial attorney; very articulate and well spoken and he is indeed one of the preeminent experts in the field of DUI defense. I recommend him to even my prospective clients who are shopping for a defense attorney. I recommend him without reservation"

Timothy Charles Milios headshot
Timothy Milios

DUI and DWI lawyer | Feb 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Vargas is one of the most talented, knoledgeable and creative members of the criminal and DUI defense bar. I have and would continue to refer clients to Diego. I endorse him without hesitation."

Andrea King Robertson headshot
Andrea Robertson

DUI and DWI lawyer | Apr 08

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have known Diego for nearly a decade. I worked with him and have consulted, brainstormed, and strategized with him about tough legal issues. I can think of very few attorneys in Washington who care as much as he does about his clients. He treats every case like it should be treated, with utmost care, attention to detail, and confidence. He knows how terrifying the process can be, and does everything he can to help ease the fears of his client and provide the very best defense. His results at trial are nothing short of astounding. I would refer my closest friends and family to him."

Mindy Michelle Carr headshot
Mindy Carr

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 13

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"If I ever had a friend accused of vehicular assault or vehicular homicide, I would definitely refer them to Diego. He is not only an incredibly intelligent attorney who is passionate about ensuring that justice is done, he is also very encouraging and funny. When you're accused of a serious crime, you definitely want someone like Diego fighting for you."

Adrian Martinez Madrone headshot
Adrian Madrone

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jun 23

Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"Diego is a great source of knowledge and inspiration in my DUI defense practice . I regularly consult with him in preparing my cases, and he is always enthusiastic in coming up with ways to help people."

Kurt Edward Boehl headshot
Kurt Boehl

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jun 10

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"If a friend needed help for an alcohol related offense in Washington, Diego is the first person I would call. While most lawyers are looking for the quick and easy plea, Diego is looking to go to battle on behalf of his client. Definitely deserving of the title "Trial Lawyer"!!."

Lawrence A. Newman headshot
Lawrence Newman

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jun 09

Relationship: Friend

"I met Diego at the Gerry Spence Trial Lawyer College in Wyoming this past week. My practice focuses on DWI defense in New York state. Getting to know Diego at the College provided me great insight to how he is with his clients. His ability to remain focused and attentive to everyone at the conference is a skill few possess. He is someone you can trust."

Jennifer Cannon-Unione headshot
Jennifer Cannon-Unione

DUI and DWI lawyer | May 17

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Diego is one of the best DUI attorney's in town. I have had the privilege of working with him in the past and can personally attest to his outstanding work and trial skills. He also cares about his clients and aggressively fights for them to get the justice they deserve. I strongly recommend Diego."

Gregory Wayne Schwesinger headshot
Gregory Schwesinger

Criminal defense lawyer | May 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"One word, "crafty". Actually there are probably not enough words to explain Diego's skill set; Diego is a superb criminal defense attorney who is able to totally maximize his talents and do it in a manner that impresses all that see him in action. One great attorney. The prosecution is in for a fight each and every time Diego goes into court; he relishes the challenge of defending people!"

Jeffrey D. Veitch headshot
Jeffrey Veitch

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I enthusiastically endorse Diego. Diego is one of the best and brightest attorneys that I have had the good fortune to know and work with. Diego's clients are fortunate to have such a knowledgeable and hardworking attorney on their side."

Scott Frederick Leist headshot
Scott Leist

DUI and DWI lawyer | Apr 24

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I have known Diego for the better part of a decade and have been consistently impressed with his professionalism, the results he gets for his clients and his knowledge. Diego is a master negotiator as well as a tremendous trial atttorney, a rare combination. (I know this firsthand, I have been on the other side of negotiations and trials with Diego.)"

View All Endorsements
Abigael Drew Pence headshot
Abigael Pence

Criminal defense lawyer

Douglas Scott Wacker headshot
Douglas Wacker

Criminal defense lawyer

Jay Herman Krulewitch headshot
Jay Krulewitch

Civil rights lawyer

Mark R Stephens headshot
Mark Stephens

Criminal defense lawyer

Norman Dean Partington Jr headshot
Norman Partington

Criminal defense lawyer

Mindy Michelle Carr headshot
Mindy Carr

Appeals lawyer

Christopher Kattenhorn headshot
Christopher Kattenhorn

Criminal defense lawyer

Kennet M Phillipson headshot
Kennet Phillipson

DUI and DWI lawyer

Adrian Martinez Madrone headshot
Adrian Madrone

Criminal defense lawyer

Lawrence A. Newman headshot
Lawrence Newman

DUI and DWI lawyer

Michael R Frans headshot
Michael Frans

Criminal defense lawyer

Jennifer Cannon-Unione headshot
Jennifer Cannon-Unione

Personal injury lawyer

Daniel Joseph Gerl headshot
Daniel Gerl

Litigation lawyer

Gregory Wayne Schwesinger headshot
Gregory Schwesinger

Criminal defense lawyer

Thomas James Breen headshot
Thomas Breen

Litigation lawyer

Matthew A Leyba headshot
Matthew Leyba

Criminal defense lawyer

Sharon Elizabeth Chirichillo headshot
Sharon Chirichillo

DUI and DWI lawyer

Leonard R Stamm headshot
Leonard Stamm

DUI and DWI lawyer

Scott D Gardner headshot
Scott Gardner

DUI and DWI lawyer

John Scott Webb headshot
John Webb

DUI and DWI lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2024

Top 100: 2024 Washington Super Lawyers Top List, Washington Super Lawyers

2023

Top 100: 2023 Washington Super Lawyers Top List, Washington Super Lawyers

2023

Washington Super Lawyer, Washington Super Lawyers

2022

America's Top 50 Lawyers, America's Top 50 Lawyers

2022

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyer Magazine

2021

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers Magazine

2020

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers Magazine

2019

Super Lawyer, Washington Law & Politics Magazine

2018

Super Lawyer, Washington Law & Politics Magazine

2017

Super Lawyer, Washington Law & Politics Magazine

2016

Super Lawyer, Washington Law & Politics Magazine

2015

Super Lawyer, Washington Law & Politics Magazine

2014

Super Lawyer, Washington Law & Politics Magazine

2013

Super Lawyer, Washington Law & Politics Magazine

2013

Certificate of Appreciation, Washington Foundation for Criminal Justice

2012

Super Lawyer, Washington Law & Politics Magazine

2012

Certificate of Appreciation, Washington Foundation for Criminal Justice

2011

Super Lawyer, Washington Law & Politics Magazine

2010

Super Lawyer, Washington Law & Politics Magazine

2009

Certificate of Appreciation, Washington Foundation for Criminal Justice

2008

Rising Star, Washington Law & Politics Magazine

2008

Certificate of Appreciation, Washington Foundation for Criminal Justice

2007

Rising Star, Washington Law & Politics Magazine

2006

Certificate of Appreciation, Washington Foundation for Criminal Justice

2006

Rising Star, Washington Law & Politics Magazine

2005

Certificate of Appreciation, Washington Foundation for Criminal Justice

2005

Rising Star, Washington Law & Politics Magazine

2004

Rising Star, Washington Law & Politics Magazine

2004

Certificate of Appreciation, Washington Foundation for Criminal Justice

2004

Certificate of Appreciation, Washington Foundation for Criminal Justice

2003

Rising Star, Washington Law & Politics Magazine

Work Experience

2011 - Present

Owner, The Vargas Law Firm, PLLC

2006 - 2011

Partner, Fox Bowman & Duarte

2002 - 2006

Associate, Fox Bowman & Duarte

2000 - 2002

Attorney, Associated Counsel for the Accussed

1998 - 2000

Director of Business Development, Taecan.com

1995 - 1998

Assistant General Counsel, State Bar of Texas

Associations

2006 - Present

Washington Foundation for Criminal Justice

Member

2002 - Present

Northwest Academy of DUI Defense

Member

2000 - Present

Washington State Bar Association

Member

1994 - Present

State Bar of Texas

Member

2005 - 2006

Washington State Trial Lawyers Association

Chair - Criminal Law Section

2003 - 2011

National College of DUI Defense

Member

2002 - 2015

Washington Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Member

2002 - 2010

Washington State Trial Lawyer's Association

Member

Education

1994

University of Houston Law Center

J.D.

1991

University of Houston

BA

Speaking Engagements

2022

Defending DUI's Seminar

Fundamentals of Jury Selection: Winning in Voir Dire

2020

Defending DUI's Seminar

Crossing the Draeger Technician

2018

The Defender's Toolbox: Emerging Issues and Essential Skills

An Introduction to Drug Based DUIs and Blood Test Results

2018

Litigating DUIS: Blood, Breath and FSTS

Understanding and Challenging Drug DUIs and Blood Drug Tests

2018

25th Annual Criminal Justice Institute

Fundamentals of Jury Selection

2017

Internet Ethics - Social Media Mishaps

Social Media and Ethics

2017

Cars and Crime

Vehicular Homicide and Vehicular Assault

2017

24th Annual Criminal Justice Institute

Closing Argument - The Road Map for Trial

2016

Defending DUI's Seminar

Cross of the Cop - A Systematic Approach

2015

Proof of Financial Responsibility

Proof of Financial Responsibility for the Future - SR22 Insurance and Bonds

2015

Alternatives to Incarceration

Incarceration and Alternatives to Incarceration

2015

2015 Criminal Justice Institute

Trial Skills - Skills to Build a Career

2014

Deferred Prosecutions

Deferred Prosecutions and Ethical Implications

2014

Defending DUIs Seminar

Motions in Limine - Using the Rules of Evidence to Your Advantage

2014

Conditions of Release

Conditions of Release and Ethical Implications

2013

Defending DUI's Seminar

Blood Testing

2012

Defending DUIs Seminar

Jury Selection

2011

Felony DUI Update

Felony DUIs

2010

Evidence and Objection Boot Camp

Mock Trial and Panel Discussion

2010

Defending DUI Blood-Drug Cases

Challenging Blood Drug Tests

2009

Defending DUIs Seminar

Winning The Impossible Case

2009

2009 Regional DUI Forums

Roadside Field Sobriety Tests

2008

Ethics and DUI Beeper Calls

Ethical issues involved in the 2:00 am call

2008

Defending DUIs

Fundamentals of Jury Selection

2006

Mastering Misdemeanors

Legal Update on DUI Issues

2006

Judicial DUI Forum

Issues in DUI Cases

2006

Defending DUI's

Winning Breath Test Cases

2005

Defending DUI's

Legal Update on DUI Laws

2003

Defending DUI's

Prosecutorial Misconduct

Languages

Spanish

English

Activity

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