Panorama City, CA asked in DUI / DWI for California

Q: 20 yrs ago .was charged for d.w.i. for meth in blood test.had used three days prior .was not under influence at time

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2 Lawyer Answers
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: Under California law, a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) charge can be based on having drugs in your system while operating a vehicle, even if the substance was used days before. The key factor is whether the drugs were affecting your ability to drive safely at the time you were stopped. The presence of methamphetamine in a blood test can be significant, as it can potentially impair driving ability.

If you were charged with a DWI 20 years ago due to methamphetamine in your blood test, and you believe you were not under the influence at the time of driving, it's crucial to understand how this might affect you now. If the case was resolved (through conviction, plea, or dismissal), it would be part of your criminal record. However, the impact of this record depends on the specifics of your case and subsequent legal history.

If you're facing current legal issues or concerns related to this past charge, it may be beneficial to consult with an attorney who has experience in criminal defense or DUI law. They can review the details of your past case and advise you on any steps you might take to address the matter, including exploring options like expungement if applicable. Remember, every situation is different, and legal advice should be tailored to your specific circumstances.

Robert Kane
Robert Kane
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Eagan, MN
  • Licensed in California

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