5 Best DUI Lawyers in Winnipeg for Damage Control Done Right
My nephew almost didn’t get into college because of a DUI that genuinely wasn’t his fault. He was driving his friend home when he was pulled over, and even though he passed the roadside tests, he was still brought in due to a misunderstanding.
Thankfully, his dad knew a top-notch lawyer who dug into the details and cleared things up before it ruined his future. This was a huge wake-up call for our family—and exactly why the right lawyer matters.
Here are the best DUI lawyers in Winnipeg who step in when things go sideways.
How much do DUI lawyers charge in Winnipeg?
DUI lawyers in Winnipeg typically charge $2,000 to $10,000 for handling an impaired-driving case, depending on its complexity and whether it goes to trial.
1. Matthew Gould
Address: 1212-363 Broadway
Phone: +1 204-272-7327
Business hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Matthew Gould, an associate at Brodsky & Company Barristers, has been handling DUI cases since 2008. He also practices criminal defense exclusively, so you know you’re in good hands.
One forte of his is alcohol DUIs—he dives into the nitty-gritty of how the samples were taken and whether your Charter rights were respected.
A more modern challenge is drug DUIs, which involve narcotics. It’s a messy area of the law, but he stays on top of the latest science and legal precedents to avoid a conviction.
What’s amazing is that he offers a free consultation with zero strings attached for impaired driving cases. Not only will he discuss the strengths and weaknesses of your situation, but he’ll also give you a transparent quote.
It’s only fair to mention that, like any high-profile lawyer, you might hear about instances of unprofessional behavior online.
Matt is an excellent DUI attorney
“Matt is an excellent DUI attorney. I must admit that I am very satisfied with the work he put in. It was an extremely frightening situation, and he helped me get through my impaired driving case.”
— Norma Pierce, Google Review
His knowledge in the area of DUI was amazing
“Matt was great. He took care of everything from start to finish. His knowledge and expertise in the area of DUI were amazing. I highly recommend that you consider Matt if you need a dui attorney in Winnipeg.”
— Lee Hartford, Google Review
2. Joshua Rogala
Address: 155 Carlton St #1640
Phone: +1 204-770-6268
Business hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Joshua Rogala is another go-to for DUI cases, with over a decade of courtroom experience under his belt. He has spent years winning motions across the legal system, from Manitoba’s Provincial Court to the Court of King’s Bench.
He’s a pro at handling driving at over 80 charges, where he spots technical errors by the police that can lead to an acquittal.
If you couldn’t successfully blow into the machine or flat-out refused to provide a sample, he’ll determine reasonable and appropriate grounds—such as medical issues or a denial of your right to counsel—to help you avoid a conviction.
Unlike many high-profile attorneys, Joshua actively accepts Legal Aid Manitoba cases; this is a huge win for those on a budget.
The only catch is that he can be a bit hard to book due to his popularity.
He will make things less scary
“From the very first phone call, Josh made me feel at ease about my sophisticated matter almost immediately. From every interaction to the big day in front of the governing body, Josh will be there for you, working hard to get the result you are looking for. Generally, there is a lot of emotion tied to these situations. Look no further and call Josh; he will make things less scary and give you the confidence you may need to take back control of your life. Thank you, Joshua Rogala.”
— Daviide, Google Review
Led to the best possible outcome for my case
“Josh was very professional and non-judgmental regarding my situation. He was transparent regarding all interactions with the crown and possible outcomes for my case. His quick response and well-written emails led to the best possible outcome for my case. Thank you, Josh.”
— James Vincent, Google Review
3. Mat Schwartz
Address: 155 Carlton St #1640
Phone: +1 204-815-8098
Business hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Before he was called to the bar, Mat Schwartz was already helping the community, working with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Winnipeg and Macdonald Youth Services. He’s now a popular practitioner who only handles criminal cases.
Impaired driving cases are his bread and butter, specifically when it comes to protecting your wallet from the economic hit of a DUI. He lets you save thousands in long-term fees and insurance hikes by helping you avoid a conviction.
Mat is also a fierce defender against the permanent impact of a criminal record; his goal is to keep your future as open as possible.
What clients appreciate most about him is that he doesn’t just decide your fate—he discusses every possible action and outcome, so you can make the final decision.
One tiny warning, though; we heard mentions of hidden fees.
Sharp, responsive, and genuinely had my back
“Mat is an outstanding lawyer. From day one, he was sharp, responsive, and genuinely had my back. He explained everything clearly, stayed on top of the case, and helped get an extremely stressful situation resolved. His professionalism and dedication made a huge difference, and I couldn’t have asked for better representation. Highly recommend Mat to anyone who needs a lawyer they can truly trust.”
— Chirag Singh, Google Review
My experience with Mat was nothing but positive
“My experience with Mat was nothing but positive. I would recommend him to anyone needing legal representation. He helped ease my mind by clearly explaining exactly what to expect and the options available to me, all while always being easy to get a hold of if I had any questions. I believe he made the experience as painless as possible and that he provided me with the best possible outcome I could have hoped for. Extremely professional. Thanks, Mat!”
— Brett W, Google Review
4. Jessie S. Brar
Address: 444 St Mary Ave #1450
Phone: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Business hours: +1 204-996-8080
As a Partner at Steigerwald Hodge Pinx & Brar, Jessie S. Brar has built a rep for high-level advocacy, taking cases all the way to the Supreme Court. In addition to private retainers, he also accepts Legal Aid certificates, making him more accessible.
That accessibility is a major plus, especially when you’re facing impaired driving charges. He understands that a DUI isn’t just a simple ticket—it can lead to full-on criminal prosecution and long-term driving prohibitions.
Jessie also handles the immediate hardships that come with a DUI arrest, such as immediate vehicle seizures and mandatory rehab programs.
We love that he can serve Winnipeg’s diverse population since he’s fluent in both English and Punjabi.
Of course, for this premium track record, expect his fees to be a bit steep.
Exceptionally insightful, professional, and friendly
“Jessie was exceptionally insightful, professional, and friendly throughout the entire case. He was always quick to reply, no matter how busy he was, and very easy to talk to, and he explained everything very thoroughly. And most importantly, it was clear that he genuinely cares about his clients and only wants the best for them. I would like to say a big thank you to Jessie for all his support and hard work. I would 100% recommend him to anyone looking for a defence lawyer.”
— Jot, Google Review
Patient, professional, and very easy to talk to
“Thank you, Jessie Brar, for your excellent support and guidance. You were patient, professional, and very easy to talk to. You explained everything clearly and kept me informed at every step, which really helped me feel calm and confident. I truly appreciate your honesty, hard work, and dedication. I highly recommend Jessie Brar to anyone looking for a reliable and trustworthy lawyer.”
— SAHIBDEEP SINGH, Google Review
5. Alan Pearse
Address: Kennedy St #183
Phone: +1 204-333-3997
Business hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Since 2000, Alan Pearse has carved out a niche across Canada by focusing exclusively on DUI litigation—unlike other firms that handle other criminal law cases.
He is a literal authority in the field. He wrote the technical textbook, the Guide to Breathalyzer Certificates in Canada, plus he has an Alan Pearse Impaired Driving Newsletter.
No wonder he can handle a huge spectrum of cases, from over 80 charges and impairment by drugs to underage DUIs and probation violations.
You don’t even have to shell out anything for your first meeting; he offers a free, no-risk consultation to evaluate your case.
The only heads up: we heard that a few clients felt rushed during their appointments. Thankfully, this doesn’t seem to be the norm.
Case dismissed without any fines or charges
“I’ve had a great experience with Mr Alan Pearse as my lawyer. He has been very professional and prompt in keeping me updated with my court proceedings. He successfully defended me and was able to have my case dismissed without any fines or charges. I am very pleased with the service that he provided, and having him by my side made me feel very confident. He is par excellence and will always hire him in any legal services that I may require in the future.”
— Gary Sarwara, Google Review
Very efficiently had my case dismissed
“I don’t like being in tight spots. But boy, did I ever get myself in one. I was facing a refusal; I thought they had me dead to rights. It didn’t help that this would have been my second offence within 5 years. I knew I needed one hell of a good lawyer. So I hired the best in Canada. Without even having to step foot in the courtroom (Mr. Pearce had me wait in my vehicle), I was cleared of all charges within 15 minutes of the courtroom doors opening. Anxiety can run high when faced with a DUI or a refusal. Alan eased my mind, acted quickly, and very efficiently had my case dismissed. If you find yourself in the same situation, do not hesitate to give Mr. Pearce a call. He’s your best chance. Straight up and honest, he’ll tell you whether you have a chance in hell, or if it’s in your best interest to take the charge. When in doubt, hire the best.”
— Jordan Henderson, Google Review