Driving Under the Influence of Drugs

If you or someone you know has been arrested for driving under the influence of drugs, it’s important to contact a qualified criminal defense attorney immediately. California Vehicle Code §23152 makes it “unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle.” Anyone who is found to be driving under the influence of any type of drug may potentially be charged with this offense.

Driving under the influence of drugs is referred to as DUID, and has similar consequences to a DUI. Potential sentences include a range of jail time, a fine, community service, or even drug rehabilitation classes. Most first time offenders face the lesser punishments and often simply have to pay restitution through community service, pay a small fine, or attend drug or alcohol education classes.

A DUID is harder to prove in court because there is not a set numerical standard for determining when someone is under the influence of a drug or drugs. For example, one way to prove a DUI is through a blood alcohol test. A person is found to be under the influence of alcohol when their blood alcohol content is at .08% or higher. However, when you are under the influence of drugs, an officer has to make a subjective determination if you are in an altered mental state. A simple blood, breath or urine test may not always provide an accurate answer as to whether someone is under the influence of drugs. Accordingly, the prosecutor must prove the case by presenting facts and circumstances that would indicate the person accused was under the influence of drugs.

Prescription Drugs and DUID

In many cases, a person who is driving while under the influence of prescription drugs may also be cited with a DUID. Even though prescription drugs are completely legal, they come with certain warnings advising against the use of heavy machinery and/or operating a vehicle. With the help of an experienced and knowledgeable DUI attorney, a DUID case involving prescription drugs may be dismissed, or the charges reduced significantly.

Hire An Experienced DUI Lawyer

A DUI and criminal defense attorney who specializes in driving under the influence cases has the knowledge and expertise to prepare a powerful defense and defend your rights and reputation. With the right argument, the facts of any case can be presented in a light most favorable to you. When it comes to keeping your record clean, trust the DUI defense lawyers at Hoffman & Associates who have over 30 years of experience with DUI cases and have successfully defended thousands of clients facing these types of charges.

We offer a phone or office consultation to discuss the facts of your case and let you know what your options are. The laws surrounding driving under the influence of drugs can be complex and only a qualified DUI attorney should negotiate on your behalf. Call us today and put our experience to work for you!

Client Reviews
★★★★★
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.