Drug DUI (DUID)
Drug DUI cases require close attention to impairment evidence, testing, and alternative explanations for an officer’s observations.
Under California Vehicle Code 23152(f), it is illegal to drive under the influence of any drug, including prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, marijuana, and illegal substances. Unlike alcohol, there is no per se legal limit for drugs, which means the prosecution must prove that the drug actually impaired your ability to drive safely.
The evidence may include driving observations, an officer’s evaluation, statements, and laboratory results. The presence of a drug is not the same question as impairment at the time of driving. A prescription does not excuse impaired driving. Counsel can evaluate how the evidence connects to the legal elements of the charge.
Jack challenges drug DUI cases by questioning the DRE’s qualifications and methodology, challenging blood test procedures and chain of custody, presenting evidence that the drug did not impair driving ability, and demonstrating that symptoms attributed to drug use could have other explanations such as fatigue, medical conditions, or nervousness.
Find local DUI defense information for Pasadena, Glendale, Burbank, and Downtown Los Angeles:
Our DUI blood-test guide explains records worth discussing with counsel. For the first consultation, follow the after-arrest preparation checklist.
Yes. If a prescription medication impairs your ability to drive safely, you can be charged with DUI even if you have a valid prescription.
Cannabis-related DUI is evaluated under California’s drug-impaired-driving law. The case turns on the evidence of impairment at the time of driving, including observations and testing. The absence of a numeric THC threshold does not make a case automatically weak.
"I was charged with DUI for prescription medication. I had a valid prescription but the officer arrested me anyway. Jack challenged the drug recognition expert's testimony and got the case dismissed. He understood the science and used it to win."
"I was arrested for marijuana DUI even though I was not impaired. Jack explained that drug DUI cases are much harder for prosecutors to prove than alcohol DUI, and he used that to my advantage. Charges reduced to a traffic infraction. Incredible result."
"Jack took the time to understand the specifics of my drug DUI case. He brought in expert testimony about blood test reliability and challenged the prosecution at every turn. The outcome was far better than I expected. Very satisfied with his work."
Disclaimer: Client reviews are submitted voluntarily and reflect individual experiences. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Each case depends on its own facts and circumstances.
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