DUID Attorney in Los Angeles

Driving Under the Influence of Drugs in California? Put +30 Years of Criminal Defense Experience on Your Side

If you’re facing allegations of driving under the influence of drugs in Los Angeles, working with a dedicated DUID attorney in Los Angeles can make all the difference. At Shevin Law Group, we bring over 30 years of experience navigating complex criminal defense matters, including DUID, with an in-depth understanding of California’s evolving drug and cannabis laws. Our approach ensures your rights are fiercely protected as we work to secure your future and minimize the impact on your life.

We offer free consultations, affordable services, and are available 24/7. Call (818) 918-5838 or contact us online to speak with a DUID attorney in Los Angeles today. We also offer bilingual services.

Understanding DUID Laws in California

In California, the laws governing Driving Under the Influence (DUI) are broad and cover both alcohol and drugs. The crime of DUID is primarily defined under California Vehicle Code § 23152(a), which makes it unlawful for any person who is "under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle." 

It's crucial to understand that, unlike an alcohol-related DUI, there is no "per se" legal limit for drugs. The prosecution must prove that the drug actually impaired your ability to drive. This is a critical distinction that a knowledgeable DUID attorney in Los Angeles will meticulously analyze to build a strong defense.

Key Elements the Prosecution Must Prove

To convict you of a DUID, the state must prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, the following elements:

• Operation of a Vehicle: The state must prove that you were in actual physical control of the vehicle.
• Intoxication: The prosecution must prove that you were under the influence of a drug. This is typically established through a combination of the following:
• "Impairment of Normal Faculties": The state proves that your mental or physical faculties were impaired due to a drug, even if your BAC was below 0.08%. This is often proven through an officer's observations of your driving and your performance on Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs).
• Chemical Test Results: The results of a blood or urine test that show the presence of a drug in your system.

The prosecution's case often relies on a variety of evidence, including police officer observations of your driving, your performance on FSTs, and the testimony of a Drug Recognition Expert (DRE). This highly subjective evidence is frequently ripe for challenge by an experienced Los Angeles DUID lawyer.

Classifications and Penalties of the DUID Offense in California

In California, a DUID is a serious criminal offense. The charge is typically a misdemeanor for a first offense, but it can be elevated to a felony under specific circumstances. The penalties increase significantly based on the number of prior convictions and the presence of aggravating factors.

• First Offense (Misdemeanor): A first DUID conviction is a misdemeanor. The penalties can include a fine of $390 to $1,000, a jail term of 96 hours to six months, and a license suspension of at least six months.
• Second or Subsequent Offense (Misdemeanor or Felony): A second, third, or fourth DUID conviction within 10 years is also a misdemeanor, but the penalties are significantly increased. A fourth DUID within 10 years is automatically a felony.
• Felony DUID Causing Injury (Vehicle Code § 23153): If a person, while driving under the influence of drugs, causes an injury to another person, the charge can be filed as a felony. The penalties for this offense are severe and can include a state prison sentence and a "strike" on your record under California's Three Strikes Law.
• DUI Manslaughter ("Watson Murder"): If a DUID results in the death of another person, you could face this felony charge. If a person has a prior DUI conviction, they can be charged with second-degree murder, also known as "Watson Murder." This is the most serious DUI-related charge, and a conviction can result in a state prison sentence of 15 years to life.

A knowledgeable DUID attorney in Los Angeles will work to prevent any enhancement of your charges and will fight for a resolution that minimizes the impact on your life.

Collateral Consequences

A criminal record for a DUID can make it incredibly difficult to find employment, obtain professional licenses, or secure housing. Many employers and professional licensing boards have zero-tolerance policies for these convictions, and landlords often deny rental applications to those with a criminal record.

Additionally, a felony conviction will result in a permanent ban on owning or possessing a firearm. For non-citizens, a conviction can have severe immigration consequences, including deportation. The social stigma attached to these crimes can also damage your reputation and personal relationships.

Building a Strategic Defense Against DUID Charges

Every case is unique, and we develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances. 

As a seasoned Los Angeles DUID lawyer, we will leverage every possible defense, including:

• Challenging the Traffic Stop: An officer must have reasonable suspicion to pull you over. If the stop was illegal, all evidence obtained as a result may be suppressed.
• Disputing Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs): These tests are notoriously unreliable. We can argue that your performance was affected by medical conditions, fatigue, or environmental factors rather than intoxication.
• Questioning Chemical Test Accuracy: The accuracy of blood and urine test results can be challenged based on issues with the equipment, the testing procedures, or the chain of custody. We can argue that the presence of a drug metabolite in your system does not mean you were impaired at the time of driving.
• Challenging Drug Recognition Experts (DREs): DREs are not infallible. We can challenge the validity of their conclusions and their training. Their evaluations are subjective and can be easily misinterpreted.
• Constitutional Violations: We will challenge any violation of your rights, such as an unlawful search and seizure or a coerced confession.
• Lack of Impairment: The prosecution must prove that the drug actually impaired your ability to drive. We can present evidence that despite the presence of a drug in your system, you were able to drive safely.

How Our DUID Defense Stands Out in Los Angeles

At Shevin Law Group, we stand out for our:

• Decades of dedicated criminal defense: Since 1992, we’ve developed lasting relationships within Los Angeles courts and law enforcement that strengthen our ability to defend your case.
• Leadership in cannabis law evolution: Our hands-on involvement since the Compassionate Use Act gives us deep insight into strategies for cannabis and drug-related cases.
• In-depth investigation and tailored defense: Each client benefits from a thorough case review and strategy that addresses individual medical, prescription, or factual circumstances unique to Los Angeles.
• Clear and consistent client communication: We keep you informed and supported throughout your case, so you always know what to expect.

Our attorneys blend extensive legal skill with genuine concern for our clients’ well-being and future prospects. Over decades, we’ve adapted along with California’s changing cannabis laws and know how to apply new legal precedents to current DUID defense strategies. 

Our deep ties to the Los Angeles legal community mean we advocate effectively both in negotiations and at trial. By providing clear, practical advice at each critical decision point, we help you make confident choices. It’s this combination of legal savvy and client-focused guidance that consistently sets our service apart for clients facing DUID charges across Los Angeles.

Contact a DUID Attorney in Los Angeles—Get Answers & Protect Your Future

Facing DUID charges in Los Angeles can have life-changing consequences—but you don’t have to do it alone. When you contact Shevin Law Group, you receive the benefit of decades of legal experience, in-depth knowledge of drug and cannabis law, and a client-focused approach designed to relieve stress and provide clarity. 

Our team is ready to guide you from the first call to the resolution of your case, with personalized strategies and supportive communication along the way. 

Call (818) 918-5838 for a confidential consultation today. Let us help you find a path forward with confidence and trusted representation.