Item: Los Angeles DUI Lawyers Hoffman and Associates
Rating: 5
Author: Micaiah Botts

Drugs and DUI

California DUI Stop and Drugs

Driving under the influence in California is not just driving after drinking alcohol. According to California Vehicle Code Section 23152, it is unlawful for a person to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs or both when operating a motor vehicle. Don’t be fooled into thinking that you cannot be charged with DUI if you have not had any alcohol to drink. If your driving is impaired by the use of drugs of any type, you may be pulled over for suspicion of DUI.

The same rules apply to probable cause, whether the impairment to driving is from drugs or alcohol or both. For example, a law enforcement officer may stop you for an expired registration on your car (probable cause) and observe behavior that leads him to believe you may be under the influence of some substance.

What Drugs can Result in a DUID in California?

For purposes of a DUI investigation, the term "drug" is defined as any substance or combination which could affect the nervous system, brain, or muscles of a person and impairs his or her ability to drive in a way that an ordinary, prudent, and cautious person would using reasonable care. What many people don’t understand about drugs involved in a DUI case is that they may include:

Prescription drugs (medical marijuana, pain medications, opiates) Over-the-counter medications (Benadryl, etc.) Illegal drugs (cocaine, meth, heroin, etc.)

Even though you may have a lawful prescription for Vicodin or medical marijuana, it does not mean you should drive while under the influence of those substances. It is more difficult for a police officer to pinpoint drug use during a DUI stop because alcohol is more transparent. But if the officer suspects drugs are affecting your ability to drive your vehicle safely, he or she may begin an investigation.

Knowledgeable DUI Defense Attorneys Fight for Your Rights

At Hoffman & Associates, we have an extensive track record of successfully defending DUI cases in California. Our 30 years of daily courtroom experience work in your favor because we can craft a skillful defense to a DUI case involving drugs. For example, it may be that you were experiencing exhaustion or anxiety that mimicked the symptoms of drug impairment when you were pulled over. Or perhaps the blood or urine samples taken from you were not handled properly and out of compliance with California laws.

Our skilled DUI defense attorneys practice in courts throughout California and offer a phone or office consultation. To speak with a California DUI expert, give us a call at 323-655-3900 and let us get started on preparing a strong defense to protect your rights.

★★★★★

I can't begin to thank Mr. Hoffman enough for his extensive efforts throughout the entire case. He went absolutely above and beyond throughout the entire process. From day one he was immediately actively pursuing ways to prevent my case from ever going to court and once that was no longer an option, actively began working on getting the case ultimately dismissed. His communication was consistent and reassuring, despite my frantic worries all the time... Micaiah Botts

My family and I simply owe our life and future to Ron Hoffman. If you are looking for a lawyer that goes above and beyond the call of duty you can't find a better lawyer than Ron. He took my case head on from the moment I called his office. I was involved in an accidental hit and run where I was unaware of the injury. Every step of the way, Ron guided me through an almost two year long investigation and court settlement process and was constantly by my side through out every crossroad... Bill Martin

Ron Hoffman and his staff were Fantastic when dealing with such a serious issue of DUI. When I first Called Ron I was very nervous and worried for my daughter and her freedom. She had a failure to appear on top of her DUI and I knew just how bad this could be. Ron was able to immediately put me at ease and gave me the confidence that there was hope and a light at the end of the tunnel. Ron was able to get the failure to appear dismissed and also no jail time for my daughter... Claude Brown

I have been working with Mr. Hoffman for over 11 years. I have seen first hand his genuine dedication to his clients, and how his experience, knowledge and passion have gotten clients fantastic results. He treats each of his clients as his only client, and takes the time to develop detailed strategies and defenses for each individual case. I have never hesitated to refer Mr. Hoffman to anyone who has asked me for a good Criminal Defense attorney. He is a fantastic attorney!... Neeta P.

I had a DUI issue recently. I have never had a problem with the law as serious as this one. I did panic a bit after and knew I had to get a lawyer to help my future. I researched the Web and read the reviews for awesome DUI Lawyers. Hiring a lawyer can be intimidating. Ron's 30 years experience and step by step guidance helped me with my case. Jonie was amazing with keeping me calm. Ron Hoffman is a great lawyer and I would refer any friends or family to him... Manuel Gomez

Ron was so accommodating and professional. With a Firm like his you wouldn't expect him to be as accessible, but he immediately returned phone calls, was easy to communicate with and was very sympathetic to my situation. He went above and beyond and was able to get a better result than I'd hoped or expected. I highly recommend Ron Hoffman and his firm. He made a difficult and anxiety fueled process bearable and made me feel safe. He is a lovely man. One does not wish to need a criminal attorney, but if you do need one, Ron's the guy to call... Teri A.

Ron and his team were the perfect pairing for what I needed taken care of. Every step of the way he was extremely helpful and informative (not his first rodeo). His work ethic and attitude were exemplary and it showed with the results of using his services. I would recommend anyone I know to give Ron a call if they need help in his realm of expertise. Many thanks Ron and associates!... Donald N.

I didn't hire a lawyer for my first DUI... What a mistake! Ronald goes above and beyond with his art and knowledge of custom strategy according to your case. lawyer of the year (every year)... Adam R.

I hate lawyers. They are hard to get a hold of, greedy and unreliable. Ron is the opposite of all these things. He deserves 6 stars, and I very much recommend him. He helped me through my case with nothing but kindness, understanding, and knowledge and eventually got it dropped. Thanks for everything Ron!... Avi Z.

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