DUID Attorney in Newport Beach

Drug-Related DUI Charges in Newport Beach—Your Defense Starts Here

If you face allegations of drug-impaired driving in Newport Beach, you need a DUID lawyer who brings deep local knowledge and respected courtroom judgment. At Corrigan Welbourn Stokke, APLC, our former prosecutors know how Newport Beach police and Orange County prosecutors handle these cases. 

We deliver thorough guidance from the moment of your arrest through each step in the legal process. Our team supports you by interpreting the evidence, advising you on critical actions, and preparing effective legal strategies that reflect a strong understanding of DUID defense.

Protect your future and professional license from a DUID conviction. Contact Corrigan Welbourn Stokke, APLC for a free consultation. We are available 24/7 to start building your defense. Call (949) 251-0330 or reach out online today.

Understanding California’s DUID Law (VC §23152(f))

California Vehicle Code §23152(f) makes it illegal to drive while under the influence of any drug, whether illegal, legally prescribed, or over-the-counter, if that substance impairs your ability to operate the vehicle safely.

Key Elements of the Crime

To secure a conviction for DUID, the prosecution must prove two core elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

• Operation: The defendant was driving a vehicle.
• Impairment: When driving, the defendant was "under the influence" of a drug—meaning the substance affected their nervous system, brain, or muscles to the extent that they could not drive with the caution of an ordinarily sober person.

The Role of the Drug Recognition Expert (DRE)

Because DUID lacks a reliable roadside test like the breathalyzer, law enforcement often relies on a specially trained officer—the DRE—to establish impairment. The DRE conducts a highly subjective, 12-step evaluation protocol designed to measure symptoms like pupil size, blood pressure, muscle rigidity, and performance on FSTs to form an opinion that the driver is impaired by a specific category of drug.

We understand that the DRE protocol is susceptible to error, misinterpretation, and bias, and we aggressively challenge the DRE's training and subjective conclusions in court. By drawing from recent court rulings and new developments in forensic testing, we position your defense with the strongest available arguments. 

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of a DUID Conviction in California

A DUID conviction carries the same criminal and administrative penalties as a standard alcohol DUI, with penalties escalating for repeat offenses or felony enhancements.

Direct Sentencing Consequences

• First Offense (Misdemeanor): Up to six months in county jail, fines up to $1,000, mandatory DUI school, and license suspension.
• Second/Third Offense: Increased jail time (up to one year) and longer license suspensions (up to three years).
• Felony DUID: A DUID is charged as a felony if it is the fourth offense within 10 years or if the DUID resulted in bodily injury or death to another person. Felony penalties include state prison time (up to 16 years for multiple injuries) and a "strike" under the Three Strikes Law.

Collateral Consequences

• Professional Licensing: Conviction for DUID (VC §23152(f)) may result in disciplinary action by state licensing boards (e.g., medical, law, commercial drivers).
• Immigration: Drug-related offenses are often considered severe crimes under federal immigration law, triggering mandatory deportation or inadmissibility.
• Employment: A criminal record for DUID is a major barrier to employment, especially in jobs requiring commercial driving or security clearance.

The California Criminal Defense Process for DUID

A DUID defense strategy in Orange County requires attacking the subjective evidence used to prove impairment.

• Immediate Counsel and Testing: We use our 24/7 availability to advise clients immediately upon arrest. Unlike alcohol DUI, DUID arrests do not automatically trigger an administrative license suspension (APS) if alcohol is ruled out. However, refusal to submit to a blood or urine test after the arrest results in a mandatory one-year license suspension. We advise clients on the complexities of this implied consent rule.
• Challenging the Traffic Stop: We scrutinize the arresting officer's report and dashcam footage to determine if the officer had reasonable suspicion for the initial stop. If the stop was unlawful, we file a Motion to Suppress, which can dismantle the entire case.
• Attacking the DRE Evaluation: We file motions and use cross-examination to argue that the DRE's evaluation was unreliable. This includes asserting that the symptoms of impairment noted (e.g., poor coordination, pupil dilation) were caused by factors unrelated to drug use, such as:
  • Medical conditions (e.g., acid reflux, fatigue, illness).
  • Medication side effects (legal or prescribed drugs).
  • Environmental factors (e.g., poor lighting, cold weather).
• Challenging Toxicology: Blood tests only prove the presence of a drug (e.g., cannabis or methamphetamine metabolites), not impairment at the time of driving. We use toxicology experts to testify that the levels of the drug in the client's system were insufficient to cause impairment, creating reasonable doubt on the central element of DUID.
• Plea Negotiation and Diversion: We leverage weaknesses in the DRE or toxicology reports to negotiate a reduction of the charge to a non-drug related offense, such as "wet reckless" or general reckless driving, or seek Judicial Diversion (PC §1000 and others) to obtain an outright dismissal.

Why Clients Trust Corrigan Welbourn Stokke With DUID Defense

Clients who choose Corrigan Welbourn Stokke get direct access to accomplished DUID attorneys with real trial experience. Each case receives attention from our former prosecutors, not delegated to inexperienced associates. Our attorneys possess over 100 years of combined criminal law experience.

Our collaborative style drives consistent, hands-on service for every DUID defense case we accept. Our attorneys meet regularly to discuss the facts, legal strategy, and new developments, keeping your needs a top priority. Because we remain a small, focused team by design, you communicate directly with our founding partners. 

We pride ourselves on availability, clarity, and reliability—offering 24/7 availability and same-day appointments. Your questions are answered promptly, and you never worry about being passed between unfamiliar attorneys or administrators.

Each step offers opportunities for skilled defense attorneys to identify weaknesses, challenge procedures, or clarify evidence.

• Customized strategy: We tailor our approach to the unique facts, substances involved, test results, and your specific circumstances.
• Local knowledge: Our understanding of how Newport Beach and Orange County authorities enforce California’s DUID law helps us address regional challenges.
• Collaborative defense: We work together to examine testing records, arrest details, and the approach of the prosecution—identifying opportunities that a single perspective may overlook.
• Personal attention: Direct access to our founding attorneys builds trust, transparency, and steady communication.

Contact a DUID Attorney in Newport Beach for Guidance Today

If you are facing a DUID charge or have questions about the process in Orange County, connect with our Newport Beach legal team now. You will work directly with experienced attorneys who provide responsive support, clear communication, and strategic guidance. 

Contact Corrigan Welbourn Stokke, APLC for a confidential conversation today. Call (949) 251-0330 to take control of your next steps and get the informed, attentive legal advocacy you deserve.