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Drugs And DUI

Los Angeles DUI of Drugs Attorney

In addition to it being illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol in California, it is also illegal to operate a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs, whether illegal or prescription.

According to DUI laws in California, “under the influence” is defined as unable to operate a vehicle with the same caution characteristic of a sober person, of ordinary prudence, under the same or similar circumstances. If you are arrested for a drug DUI it is vital that you seek the help of a practiced DUI defense attorney.

The primary issue in drug related DUI offenses is for the police to show that you were intoxicated on substance that you voluntarily took and it impacted your ability to operate a motor vehicle safely.

In our experience, we have seen drug related cases rise significantly. In many cases, drivers are taking lawfully prescribed drugs, but still find themselves arrested for DUI of drugs.

It's important to note this is a lawful arrest due to the fact the law is clear that if you take something that effects your ability to drive, you can be charged with a DUI.

If you have been accused of driving under the influence of drugs, known as “DUID,” call a Los Angeles DUI attorney at our law firm to review the details of your case.

Submitting to DUI Chemical Tests

Unlike alcohol there is no “illegal limit” of drugs in the system that would cause someone to be placed under arrest. The arresting officer will use subjective methods to judge if you are under the influence of drugs and unable to operate your vehicle safely.

Once arrested you would be taken to a facility and administered a blood or urine test to determine if the officer's subjective reality was correct or not regarding your being under the influence of drugs.

The process is slightly different from an alcohol DUI in that you would not have your driver's license automatically suspended upon arrest. You must first be convicted of the DUI before a suspension would occur.

Drug DUI charges are serious. However, by contacting our defense lawyers can begin building a sound defense in order to attempt to resolve your case as quickly as possible with minimal upset to your life.

Although officers can be trained as Drug Recognition Evaluators, their expertise can be challenged, as can the equipment, protocols and capabilities of the blood/urine tests.

If you have been charged with felony DUI or causing injury under VC 23153, we might be able to help you avoid jail time.

Defenses for a DUI Drug Charge in In Los Angeles

Our experienced Los Angeles DUI lawyers can use a variety of legal defenses to fight your DUI of drugs charges:

  • You were not under the influence of drugs – perhaps we can show your physical condition was due to exhaustion or anxiety mistaken for drug impairment.
  • Inaccurate chemical test – perhaps we can show the chemical testing was in  error due to contaminated medical equipment or improper handling of the samples.
  • Collection and storage of your blood or urine samples were not handled properly according to procedures under California's Title 17.
  • Challenge the probable cause – perhaps we can make an argument there was insufficient probable cause to initiate the DUI traffic stop

Being convicted of a drug DUI can cause serious complications and can adversely affect your job, your future and your family.

With our combined legal experience of over 100 years, our firm can assure you will get the best defense possible based on the circumstances surrounding your arrest.

We use various DUI defense strategies to get your charges reduced or dismissed. We can guide you through the entire DUI court process and if you have multiple DUIs.

If you have been arrested for a drug DUI, get informed help by contacting Cron, Israels & Stark so we may begin a proper investigation into your charges.

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Cron, Israels & Stark is committed to answering your questions about All Misdemeanor and Felony Crime law issues in Santa Monica and Los Angeles, California.

We offer a free consultation and we'll gladly discuss your case with you at your convenience. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

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