What Counts as Driving Under the Influence in California?

Getting a DUI in California can change your life fast. The system can feel stacked against you, and the laws often leave room for confusion. Working with a trusted DUI lawyer in Mill Valley, CA, can help you make sense of it all and start building a defense that actually works.

Many drivers do not realize how easily a simple mistake or misunderstanding can turn into a DUI charge. California’s rules go beyond alcohol and can apply even if your car is not moving. That is why Attorney Mark Malachowski focuses on digging into every detail of the case and exposing weak evidence before it defines your future.

Here are the main situations that can lead to DUI charges in California and how a strong defense can protect your rights.

Key Takeaways

• Many DUI charges come from misunderstandings about what legally counts as “driving under the influence.”
• You can be arrested for DUI even if your blood alcohol level is below the limit or your vehicle never moves.
• The right attorney can uncover errors in testing, police reports, and assumptions that could change the outcome of your case.

When the Legal Limit Isn’t the Whole Story

A blood alcohol level under 0.08 percent does not always mean a driver is safe from a DUI charge in California. Officers can still arrest someone if their driving shows signs of impairment. Even small amounts of alcohol or drugs can affect reaction time and judgment behind the wheel.

A DUI lawyer can investigate how the stop and testing were handled. Mistakes in the process can weaken the case and even lead to dropped charges. Every detail matters, from the reason for the stop to the accuracy of the test equipment.

Alcohol Isn’t the Only Substance That Counts

Many drivers face DUI charges even when they have not been drinking. Prescription drugs and over-the-counter medicines can affect reaction time and coordination. A DUI lawyer in Mill Valley, CA, can explain how these substances might impact your case and what defenses could apply.

Even common medications can lead to serious legal trouble if they make you appear impaired. Officers can arrest you based on your behavior and driving, even without alcohol in your system. Attorney Mark Malachowski helps clients understand their rights and works to uncover mistakes that could reduce or dismiss the charges.

Can You Still Face DUI Charges If the Car Isn’t Moving?

Yes, you can face DUI charges in California even if your car never moved. Officers may claim you were in control of the vehicle if you were in the driver’s seat with the keys close by. The law allows an arrest based on potential intent to drive, even when the engine is off.

A DUI lawyer can look at every detail to build a strong defense and challenge those claims. Sometimes a plea bargain may be the best option to reduce penalties or avoid a license suspension. Every case is different, so skilled legal help can make a big difference in the outcome.

Protect Your Future With Help From a DUI Lawyer in Mill Valley, CA

A DUI charge does not have to define your future or your reputation. The outcome often depends on how well your defense challenges the evidence stacked against you. Attorney Mark Malachowski brings the experience and determination needed to turn a tough situation into a chance for a second start.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I was arrested for DUI but never actually drove?

You can still face charges if the police believe you were in control of the car, even while parked. A strong defense can show that you had no intent to drive and that the arrest went beyond what the law allows.

Can taking prescription medication really cause a DUI?

Yes, some medications can affect balance, speech, or alertness in ways that appear similar to intoxication. A DUI attorney can use medical records and expert testimony to prove your prescription did not impair your ability to drive safely.

How can a DUI lawyer fight breath or blood test results?

A good lawyer investigates how the tests were handled, from machine calibration to storage of samples. If any step was done incorrectly, those results can be challenged or ruled unreliable in court.