Bakersfield DUID Lawyer
Defending Clients Facing Drug DUI Charges in Bakersfield, CA
If you've been arrested for driving under the influence of drugs (DUID) in Bakersfield, you're likely facing serious legal consequences. A conviction can result in license suspension, heavy fines, probation, and even jail time. More importantly, a DUID charge can permanently affect your reputation, employment opportunities, and your freedom. At Humphrey & Thompson, our experienced Bakersfield DUID attorney is here to help you understand your rights, challenge the evidence against you, and aggressively fight for the best possible outcome.
Contact us at to schedule a consultation and learn how we can assist you in safeguarding your future.
Common Types of Drugs Involved in DUID Cases
Unlike alcohol-related DUIs, a DUID charge can involve a wide variety of substances — both legal and illegal. The most commonly cited drugs in Bakersfield DUID arrests include:
- Marijuana (Cannabis): Even though recreational use is legal in California, driving under the influence of marijuana remains illegal. THC can impair reaction time, focus, and motor skills.
- Prescription Medications: Drugs like Xanax, Vicodin, OxyContin, Adderall, and Ambien are often legally prescribed but can still impair your ability to drive safely. Even if prescribed by a doctor, you can still be charged with a DUID.
- Illegal Narcotics: Cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, LSD, and ecstasy are all frequently cited in DUID cases and carry severe legal consequences.
- Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications: Antihistamines, sleep aids, or cold medications can cause drowsiness and impair driving, potentially resulting in a DUID arrest.
It’s not the legality of the drug that matters—it’s whether it impaired your ability to drive safely.
California Drug-Related DUI Laws
In California, DUIDs are prosecuted under Vehicle Code § 23152(f), which makes it illegal to drive under the influence of any drug. Here are some critical points to understand:
- "Under the Influence" Standard: Prosecutors must prove that the drug impaired your mental or physical abilities to the extent that you could no longer drive with the caution of a sober person.
- No Legal Limit: Unlike alcohol, there’s no “per se” threshold (like 0.08% BAC) for drugs. The case often relies on police observations, field sobriety tests, Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) evaluations, and toxicology results.
- Blood and Urine Tests: Refusal to submit to chemical testing can result in automatic license suspension under California’s implied consent laws.
- Penalties: A first-time DUID offense may include:
- Fines up to $1,000 (plus penalty assessments)
- 6-month license suspension
- DUI education program
- Up to 6 months in jail
- Probation and community service
- Aggravating Factors: Penalties can increase if:
- You have prior DUI convictions
- There was a child in the vehicle
- An accident occurred causing injury or death
Because DUID cases depend heavily on subjective evidence and complex testing procedures, having a knowledgeable Bakersfield DUID lawyer on your side is essential.
FAQs About DUID Charges in Bakersfield, CA
What is the difference between DUI and DUID in California?
A DUI generally refers to driving under the influence of alcohol, while a DUID refers to impairment caused by drugs. However, both are prosecuted under similar sections of the California Vehicle Code, and penalties can be nearly identical.
Can I be charged with a DUID even if I have a prescription?
Yes. Even legally prescribed medications can lead to a DUID if they impair your driving ability. Having a prescription does not protect you from prosecution if you're found to be impaired.
How do police determine drug impairment?
Law enforcement officers may conduct field sobriety tests, observe physical signs (like red eyes or slurred speech), and rely on Drug Recognition Experts (DREs) to evaluate impairment. A blood or urine test may also be used.
Can marijuana lead to a DUID in Bakersfield?
Absolutely. THC, the active component in marijuana, can impair coordination and judgment. Even if marijuana use is legal, driving while high is not.
What happens if I refuse a blood or urine test?
Refusing a chemical test can result in an automatic license suspension for up to one year and may be used as evidence against you in court.
Will a DUID show up on my criminal record?
Yes, unless the charge is dismissed or you are granted a diversion or expungement later. A DUID conviction is a criminal offense and can impact background checks for jobs, housing, and more.
Is jail time mandatory for a first DUID?
Not always. Many first-time offenders can avoid jail with proper legal representation, especially if the case involves no aggravating factors. Alternatives may include probation, fines, and mandatory drug education classes.
Speak With a Bakersfield DUID Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been arrested for driving under the influence of drugs, it’s critical to act quickly. The consequences of a DUID can be life-altering, but with the right legal team, you may have strong defenses available. At Humphrey & Thompson, we have successfully defended clients throughout Bakersfield and Kern County facing drug-related DUI charges.
Schedule a free consultation today to discuss your case, understand your options, and begin building a solid defense strategy. Our goal is to protect your future and fight for the most favorable resolution possible.
Contact us now at to speak with an experienced Bakersfield DUID lawyer.
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Recognized by The State of California As Board Certified Criminal Defense Experts
At Humphrey & Thompson, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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- Aracele S.
I’d like to express my sincere gratitude to Kyle Humphrey at Humphrey & Thompson for his help with an unexpected case. He was highly thorough and made sure I understood every part of the process, which was especially important as this was my first and only legal matter. Many thanks to you and your team!
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- Jenna B.
My husband hired Jared Thompson to defend him against bogus charges. Their price was affordable and well worth the work they put in. Even though the DA's office was not helpful and kept delaying the case over and over, Mr. Thompson and his team never gave up. It was finally dismissed and we couldn't be more happy with the outcome.
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- Aimee G.
The process was easy and they made it so that I didn't have to appear in court. I highly recommended them!
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- Joe S.
His experience and knowing what to do helped and he has wisdom in sharing and saying the right thing to calm you in whatever you are going through. At times I was talked to as if I knew the law but when questioned what he was talking about he would take the time to explain. He is a very busy man so it seemed like he was hurried but would come back to explain. Happy with the outcome and glad that we were able to find a great attorney.
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- KC A.
I had an amazing experience with Kyle! He is a straight shooter and that was crucial for me to hear. I was able to keep all my rights, get my case dismissed and that was huge for me! Kyle was able to take a bad situation for our family and deliver results that allowed us to move forward and grow. I highly recommend Kyle and his team!
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- Rena B.
IF you are caught in a bad situation in life and are looking for a Lawyer and investigator to fight, do their job well in fighting to prove your innocence in your case, you need Kyle and Victor on your side!!!
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- Felicia E.
He values his clients and understands their individual needs. He will work hard to guarantee that justice is served for everyone involved. He is honest and supportive throughout the entire process. We will never forget what Kyle has done for us.
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- Randy K.
Due to the distance away from the Bakersfield area I was able to deal with the firm by phone and email. Phone service was very timely and they made me feel comfortable. If needed, I would use their services again and recommend this law office.
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Charges Reduced/Dismissed
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Molestation and Sexual Abuse of Minors
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Sex Offense
Juvenile Client Has Felony Sex Offense Case Dismissed and Is Not Required to Register
Why Choose Humphrey & Thompson?
At Humphrey & Thompson, we bring years of experience and a deep understanding of California’s DUI laws to every case. We know how Bakersfield prosecutors operate and how to challenge:
- Faulty or inaccurate drug test results
- Improper police procedures or unlawful stops
- Weak field sobriety test performance
- Questionable conclusions from Drug Recognition Experts
We’re committed to protecting your rights and minimizing the consequences of a DUID charge—or getting the case dismissed altogether when possible.
