Under the Influence Charges in Orange County
Posted on August 9, 2017
Proving you were under the influence of a controlled substance can be more challenging than most would expect. Simply having police contact can cause someone to feel nervous, sweat, and/or trouble communicating (muttering their words). Unfortunately, these are all are common symptoms of being under the influence.
In most instances, the police officer will ask whether you ingested any substances. If you answer in the affirmative, then you’re merely building additional evidence against yourself. Therefore, it’s best not to give any statement when questioned by police.
Under the influence of a controlled substance is governed under California Health & Safety Code 11550(a). This offense is a misdemeanor carrying up to 1 year in the Orange County jail.
The defenses to this charge may include a Fourth Amendment violation of your search and seizure right; you had a valid prescription from a physician; you were not under the influence and the police are exaggerating the circumstances; you did not willfully consume a controlled substance; or you perhaps ingested the substance previously no longer feel its effects due to the lapse of time.
Contact Us to Schedule a Free Consultation
Contact our office to speak with an experienced Orange County Drug Crimes Defense Attorney if you’ve been arrested or charged with being under the influence of a controlled substance under HS 11550(a) for a free consultation.
