Santa Monica Drug DUI Defense Attorney

Drug DUI vs. Alcohol DUI

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 the law, "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.

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 Cron, Israels & Stark a DUI defense lawyer 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.

Drug DUI Defense Lawyer In Los Angeles

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.