Case Success: How Matthew Ruff Secured a Dismissal of Assault and Public Intoxication Charges and Record Sealing in Torrance Court

Posted on February 8, 2026 by thetorranceattorney
Matthew J. Ruff, DUI Attorney

When a 30-year-old engineer found himself facing criminal charges following a bizarre public confrontation in Manhattan Beach, his career and reputation were on the line. However, thanks to the aggressive representation of Local Defense Attorney Matthew Ruff, the entire case was dismissed and the record officially sealed.

The Incident: A Misunderstanding in Manhattan Beach

The case began on June 14, 2025, near the intersection of Highland Avenue and Manhattan Beach Boulevard. According to police reports, The client was arrested for public intoxication (647(f) PC) following a physical altercation, including allegations of assault in front of a Starbucks.  

The reporting officer noted objective symptoms of alcohol intoxication, including bloodshot eyes and a strong odor of alcohol. The other party involved alleged that the client had provoked the fight by sitting on his lap and flicking his hat.  

The Defense Strategy: Motion to Dismiss

While the police report painted a challenging picture, Matthew Ruff recognized key opportunities for a strong defense:

• Lack of Criminal Record: As a professional engineer with no prior criminal history, the defendant was an ideal candidate for leniency and record preservation.  

• The Nature of the Altercation: While a fight occurred, the other party suffered no injuries, which Matthew Ruff used to highlight the minor nature of the disturbance.  

• Insufficiency of Evidence: Mr. Ruff challenged whether the client was the aggressor and truly unable to care for his own safety—a high legal standard required for a drunk in public, 647(f) PC conviction.  

The Result: Case Dismissed and Sealed

By filing a strategic motion to dismiss in the Torrance court, Top Tier Defense Attorney Matthew Ruff successfully argued that his client’s lack of a criminal record and the specific facts of the case did not warrant a permanent mark on his professional life and career as an engineer.

The Torrance Judge, ultimately agreed, granting Matthew’s motion to dismiss and a subsequent motion to seal the arrest record. This critical outcome ensures that the arrest will no longer appear on background checks, allowing the client to continue his engineering career without the shadow of a criminal charge.

If you are facing similar charges in the South Bay or Torrance area, contact Manhattan Beach Defense Attorney Matthew Ruff for a consultation to protect your future.

Office Locations

Matthew J Ruff, Long Beach DUI Attorney
444 W. Ocean Blvd.
Long Beach CA 90802
(562) 473-5390

Matthew J Ruff, DUI Attorney
18411 Crenshaw Blvd.
Torrance CA 90504
(310) 527-4100

Matthew J Ruff, San Pedro DUI Attorney
222 W. 6th St.
San Pedro CA 90731
(310) 514-0877

Matthew J. Ruff, DUI Attorney
333 S. Grand Avenue
Los Angeles CA 90012
(877) 213-4453

Matthew J. Ruff, Huntington Beach DUI Attorney
17011 Beach Blvd.
Huntington Beach CA 92647
(877) 212-2090

Matthew Ruff, DUI Defense Lawyer -Santa Monica Office
100 Wilshire Blvd.
Santa Monica CA 90401
(877) 213-4453

☎️ Call Matt Directly NOW 310-527-4100

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CASE RESULT: Felony Evading & DUI Charges Dropped in Just 3 Days via Early Intervention

Posted on February 4, 2026 by thetorranceattorney

The Situation: A Nightmare Arrest

Imagine being arrested and facing a laundry list of serious charges that could ruin your future. That was the reality for a young Manhattan Beach client arrested by the CHP Baldwin Park Station on January 31, 2026. The allegations were severe:

• Felony Evading Police (VC 2800.2): A felony charge that carries prison time.

• DUI (VC 23152 A & B): Driving under the influence of alcohol.

• Speeding over 100 MPH (VC 22348 B): A major infraction resulting in massive fines and license suspension.

Most people in this situation wait weeks for their court date, hoping for the best. But in criminal defense, waiting is the biggest mistake you can make.

The Strategy: Proactive Early Intervention

Instead of sitting back, Top Tier Los Angeles DUI Attorney Matthew Ruff immediately went to work. He didn’t wait for the police reports to slowly make their way through the system. He utilized a strategy known as Early Intervention, reaching out to the District Attorney early, soon after the arrest.

Matthew Ruff, DUI Attorney Outside West Covina Court

Matthew reached out directly to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office (Pomona Branch, West Covina Court) before the case was even filed. By preparing mitigating evidence and being ready to point out critical flaws in the arrest immediately, he was able to get ahead of the prosecution’s narrative.

The Result: “Declined to File Charges”

The timeline of this victory speaks for itself:

• Arrest Date: January 31, 2026

• DA Decision Date: February 3, 2026

In just 3 days—and well before the client ever had to step foot in a courtroom—the District Attorney issued a formal rejection letter. As stated in the official document from the DA’s office:

“A search of the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office database reveals that on 02/03/2026, our office declined to file charges… for his/her 01/31/2026 arrest.”

Actual Redacted Letter From DA Showing Felony Charges Dropped

Why This Matters

Because of Matthew Ruff’s swift action, a case that included Felony Evading, DUI and Speeding over 100 MPH was completely dropped. No court appearances, no conviction, and a clean record preserved.

The Lesson

If you or a loved one are arrested for a serious offense like DUI or Felony Evasion, do not wait for your court date to hire a lawyer. The window between arrest and filing is critical.

Contact Torrance DUI Attorney Matthew Ruff immediately to discuss Early Intervention strategies for your case. Though based in the South Bay (Torrance) Matthew defends DUI and criminal cases throughout Southern California.

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Matthew Ruff Recognized as One of “America’s Most Honored Lawyers” for 2025 – A Commitment to Excellence in DUI Defense

Posted on January 31, 2026 by thetorranceattorney

It is with immense pride and appreciation that we announce a significant achievement for Matthew Ruff, our dedicated DUI Attorney. Matthew has been officially recognized as one of “America’s Most Honored Lawyers” for 2025, an esteemed award certified by The American Registry. This prestigious designation places him among the Top 5% of American Professionals, a testament to his unwavering commitment to legal excellence and his relentless advocacy for his clients.

Matthew Ruff Awarded “America’s Most Honored Lawyers “

This isn’t just another award; it’s a profound acknowledgment of continuous professional recognition. The selection process for “America’s Most Honored Lawyers” is rigorous, taking into account a comprehensive range of criteria including significant mentions in the press, honors bestowed by recognized trade groups, and, perhaps most importantly, acclaimed recognitions from both peers and clients. To be included in this elite group speaks volumes about the consistent high standards Matthew maintains in his practice.

What Does This Mean for Our Clients?

For anyone facing the complexities of a DUI charge, choosing the right attorney can make all the difference. This honor reaffirms what our clients already know: With over 30 years experience, Matthew Ruff brings a unique blend of expertise, dedication, and a deep understanding of DUI law to every case. His inclusion in the Top 5% signifies:

• Proven Track Record: Consistent recognition from various sources points to a history of successful outcomes and satisfied clients.

• Peer Respect: Being acknowledged by fellow legal professionals highlights a reputation built on integrity and skill.

• Client Confidence: The emphasis on client recognition underscores a commitment to effective communication and achieving the best possible results for those he represents.

• Exceptional Legal Acumen: This award is a clear indicator that Matthew Ruff possesses the advanced knowledge and strategic thinking necessary to navigate even the most challenging DUI cases.

A Dedication to Justice

Matthew Ruff’s work extends beyond the courtroom; it’s about safeguarding futures and ensuring fair treatment under the law. His passion for justice and his meticulous approach to every detail of a case have been key factors in earning this national recognition. It’s a daily commitment to upholding the highest ethical standards while providing aggressive and effective defense.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Matthew Ruff on this outstanding achievement. It’s an honor well-deserved and a reflection of the hard work, expertise, and client-focused approach that defines his practice.

If you or someone you know is in need of an attorney who is recognized among the nation’s best for DUI defense, Torrance DUI Lawyer Matthew Ruff stands ready to provide the exceptional representation you deserve.

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Restoring a Reputation: A Heartfelt “Thank You” to Matthew Ruff

Posted on January 18, 2026 by thetorranceattorney

In the world of criminal defense, we often talk about “wins” in terms of legal motions and court dates. But for our clients, a win is about something much deeper: it’s about getting their life back.

We recently received a moving thank-you card from a client who faced devastating false allegations. When the system seemed stacked against them, Defense Attorney Matthew Ruff stepped in to ensure the truth was heard.

The Client’s Note

“Matthew,

At a time when I thought all hopes of winning my case had been exhausted, you came through again and again and kept all hopes alive. I want to thank you for your professionalism, the faith and confidence you instilled in me, and the way you fought the case to go in my favor. It is very rare to find an attorney with such qualities nowadays.

Again, thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping me move on and put all of this behind me. You didn’t just win a case; you gave me my life back.”

Why “False Allegation” Cases Require a Unique Defense

Defending against false allegations is uniquely challenging because the damage starts the moment the accusation is made. Matthew Ruff’s approach focuses on:

  • Aggressive Investigation: Scrutinizing every detail of the police report to find inconsistencies or “multiple hearsay” issues that can render a report untrustworthy.
  • Constitutional Protections: Identifying violations of due process or illegal government overreach to secure a complete dismissal of charges.
  • Protecting the Future: Ensuring that a case doesn’t just end in a “deal,” but in a resolution that keeps a client’s record clean—crucial for those protecting professional licenses or immigration status.

A Message of Hope

If you or a loved one are facing false allegations, remember that you do not have to face the “black hole” of the legal system alone. As this client’s story shows, with the right advocate in your corner, it is possible to reverse the spiral and secure a new beginning.

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Defense Attorney Matthew J. Ruff Secures Dismissal of Major Drug Case on Constitutional Grounds

Posted on January 9, 2026 by thetorranceattorney
Top Tier Defense Attorney Matthew Ruff

TORRANCE, CA – January 9, 2026 – Noted California criminal defense attorney Matthew J. Ruff today announced a significant victory for his client, resulting in the complete dismissal of all charges in a high-stakes case. The dismissal was granted by the court based on a successful defense motion arguing a critical violation of the client’s constitutional rights.

The charges, as contained in Court case number 100410B (redacted for privacy reasons), included serious allegations of drug sales and cultivation, were dropped after Attorney Ruff demonstrated that law enforcement and the prosecution failed to adhere to the fundamental protections guaranteed under the U.S. Constitution. This outcome upholds the principle that all individuals are entitled to due process and protection against government overreach.

“Our Constitution provides crucial safeguards against unlawful government action, and when those rights are violated, the courts have a duty to intervene,” said Attorney Ruff. “This dismissal is a testament to the importance of an aggressive defense that scrutinizes every aspect of a case to ensure justice prevails.”

This details of the case involved a large-scale Marijuana cultivation investigation in the Mojave area.

Key Facts:

  • Operation Size: Deputies located 63 greenhouses, most containing over 24,000 live marijuana plants.
  • Evidence & Testing:
    • Over 200 pounds of processed marijuana and cannabis were located and seized.
    • Field tests and subsequent lab tests on samples confirmed high THC content (marijuana), not CBD (hemp).
  • Other Seizures:
    • Over $25,000 in U.S. currency was found and seized as drug proceeds
    • Multiple semi-automatic handguns were also located.

Matthew J. Ruff has a distinguished record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients by exposing flaws in police procedure, scientific evidence, and constitutional compliance, with a high success rate in getting charges dismissed or significantly reduced across Southern California courts.

About Matthew J. Ruff, Attorney at Law:

Matthew J. Ruff is a top-rated criminal defense lawyer and Top Tier DUI defense attorney with over 30 years of experience serving clients in Los Angeles, Orange, and Kern Counties. He specializes in defending individuals against a wide range of criminal charges, including DUI, domestic violence, drug possession, and other felony and misdemeanor cases, and is known for his commitment to client communication and trial advocacy.

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Victory in Oceano Dunes: How DUI Attorney Matthew Ruff Won the “Rising BAC” Case

Posted on January 8, 2026 by thetorranceattorney

In a significant case out of Oceano Dunes California (SLO County), California DUI Attorney Matthew Ruff leveraged the scientific principle of retrograde extrapolation to successfully challenge his client’s breath test results and achieve a dismissal of the license suspension. This victory hinged on proving the client was still in the “absorptive phase” of alcohol consumption, meaning his blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at the time of driving was below the legal limit of 0.08%, despite higher readings later at the police station. 

The Facts of the Case

  • 15:08: Client pulled over by law enforcement.
  • 15:16: Client arrested after displaying objective signs of intoxication (odor of alcohol, bloodshot/watery eyes).
  • 15:40: First breath test administered, result: 0.089% BAC.
  • 15:43: Second breath test administered, result: 0.091% BAC.
Actual Police Report (Redacted)

The “Rising BAC” Defense Strategy

The core of the defense was to exploit the time gap between the initial stop (15:08) and the breath tests (starting at 15:40). California law prohibits driving at or above a 0.08% BAC, but if the tests are taken while alcohol levels are still rising, the results may not reflect the actual level at the time of driving. 

Attorney Ruff used a linear extrapolation (also known as retrograde extrapolation) to estimate the client’s BAC at the moment he was pulled over. 

  1. Calculate the Rate of Increase: The client’s BAC increased from 0.089% to 0.091% over a 3-minute interval (15:40 to 15:43). This rapid increase was key evidence that the client was in the absorptive phase.
  2. Project Backward: Mr. Ruff demonstrated that by projecting this rate backward in time to 15:08 (32 minutes before the first test), the client’s BAC would have been below 0.08%.
    • Calculation: The increase was 0.002% in 3 minutes. Over 32 minutes, the projected drop in BAC was approximately 0.021%.
    • Result: 0.089% (at 15:40) – 0.021% = ~0.068% at the time of driving. 

This expert analysis showed that the client was likely innocent of the core DUI charge (driving with 0.08% or more BAC). 

The Outcome: License Suspension Set Aside

By highlighting the discrepancy between the time of driving and the time of testing, and providing a scientifically sound estimate of a sub-0.08% BAC, Matthew Ruff successfully challenged the validity of the evidence at the DMV hearing.  In addition, Matthew showed other “evidence” relied upon by the police officer was not reliable, such as the conclusions drawn from a horizontal gaze nystagmus (HGN) test.

The DMV hearing officer agreed, and the administrative per se (APS) license suspension order was set aside, and the arrest was removed from the client’s DMV record. This outcome is considered a total victory, protecting the client’s driving privileges and avoiding severe penalties. 

Actual Order of Dismissal (Set Aside)

It is also noteworthy that Matthew got the criminal charges of VC 23152a and VC 23152b dismissed in Court following negotiations with the DA, thereby avoiding a trial in Court. The client, a commercial driver, was elated. The consequences he was facing was a lifetime disqualification of his commercial license.

Would you like to know more about how Matthew Ruff has used challenges to police observation periods or breath machine accuracy to win other cases? Visit Matthew’s website Best DUI Defense.

Matthew Ruff is a top-rated criminal defense and DUI attorney in Southern California with over 30 years of experience. He specializes exclusively in DUI and criminal law, having handled over 4,000 cases including standard DUIs, high BAC cases, and underage offenses. 

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CASE VICTORY: DUI Attorney Matthew Ruff Secures DMV Dismissal of .12/.13 Breath Case by Challenging “Conclusory” Police Reports

Posted on January 5, 2026 by thetorranceattorney

Top-rated DUI defense attorney Matthew Ruff has successfully secured a “Set Aside” of a driver’s license suspension in a contested DMV administrative hearing, despite breath test results of .12/.13, by exposing critical flaws in the police officer’s sworn statement, Ruff demonstrated that the Department of Motor Vehicles failed to meet its burden of proof, resulting in a full dismissal of the suspension action against his client and immediate reinstatement of driving privileges.

The Case: “Reckless Driving” Without the Facts

The case centered on a traffic stop initiated by law enforcement for alleged “reckless driving.” and subsequent breath test results of .12%/13% BAC. However, the official report (Form DS 367) relied entirely on a single, vague statement: “the subject was contacted after being pulled over for reckless driving by CHP officer Fromm”.  

Actual Redacted Police Report of Case Matthew Won

Torrance DUI Attorney Matthew Ruff argued that this statement was legally insufficient. Under California law, an officer must possess “specific and articulable facts” to justify a detention, rather than “mere legal conclusions”. Ruff contended that simply labeling driving as “reckless” is a subjective opinion, not an observational fact.  

The Winning Strategy: Exposing Hearsay and Lack of Evidence

The defense strategy focused on two major legal deficiencies in the DMV’s case:

1. The “Conclusory Evidence” Argument

Matthew Ruff utilized the DMV’s own Driver Safety Manual to argue that an officer must document specific behaviors—such as swerving, near-misses, or extreme speed—rather than just checking a box or writing a conclusion like “reckless driving”.

“A statement that a driver was ‘reckless’ is a legal conclusion, not a fact… Under DMV guidelines, ‘reckless driving’ is a subjective label that does not meet the constitutional threshold unless supported by a detailed description.” 

2. The “Multiple Hearsay” Defense

Crucially, the officer who wrote the report was not the officer who witnessed the alleged driving. This created a “multiple hearsay” issue. Ruff argued that because the reporting officer lacked personal knowledge of the facts, the report was “untrustworthy” and failed to qualify for the Official Records exception to the hearsay rule. 

“A reporting officer who did not witness the stop lacks the personal knowledge required to make the record ‘trustworthy’.” 

The Result: License Suspension Set Aside

Because the DMV bears the burden of proving the stop was lawful, and because the evidence provided was merely a conclusion without supporting facts, the hearing officer was compelled to rule in favor of the licensee. The attorney successfully argued that accepting such a vague report would violate the driver’s Due Process rights to a fair hearing by a neutral fact-finder.  

This victory highlights the importance of retaining an experienced DUI attorney who understands the nuances of the DMV administrative process and knows how to challenge the “official duty presumption”.  

About Matthew Ruff

Matthew Ruff is a seasoned criminal defense attorney with over 30 years of experience defending clients in DUI and DMV hearings across California.

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Matthew Ruff Recognized as a Top 3 DWI & DUI Lawyer in 2025

Posted on December 27, 2025 by thetorranceattorney
Matthew Ruff, Top Rated DUI Lawyer

Matthew Ruff, Attorney at Law, is proud to announce his recognition by the independent rating service, Three Best Rated, as one of the Top 3 Best Rated DWI & DUI Lawyers for 2025. This prestigious local award underscores the firm’s unwavering commitment to providing superior legal defense for the Torrance community.

The Three Best Rated award is the result of a rigorous 50-point inspection process that evaluates local businesses on a variety of metrics including reputation, history, complaints, ratings, and overall client satisfaction. Unlike other accolades, businesses cannot pay to be listed, ensuring an unbiased selection that reflects genuine community trust and professional excellence.

“Being acknowledged as a top-tier defender in the very community where I live and work is a true honor,” said Matthew Ruff. “My commitment to the residents of Torrance, especially our local dock workers and port employees, is to provide aggressive advocacy and ensure their rights are protected when facing complex DUI and criminal charges”.

With over 30 years of experience, Matthew Ruff has built a reputation as a fierce litigator known for challenging evidence and securing favorable outcomes, including dismissals of charges and avoidance of license suspensions.

The Torrance office of Matthew Ruff, Attorney at Law, is conveniently located at 18411 Crenshaw Blvd., Torrance CA 90504. Residents facing a DUI or criminal charge are encouraged to seek a consultation to understand their rights and explore defense strategies.

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Success Story: From DUI Charge to “Dry Reckless” Result

Posted on December 18, 2025 by thetorranceattorney
Matthew J. Ruff, DUI Attorney

At the Law Offices of Matthew Ruff, we understand that a DUI charge can feel like an insurmountable weight on your future. Our primary goal is to lift that burden through aggressive advocacy and deep legal expertise. Today, we are proud to share a recent success story from a client who saw their life-changing results firsthand.

Client Spotlight: A Path to Relief

We recently received this feedback from a client navigating the complexities of the California legal system:

“Mr. Matthew Ruff helped me get my DUI charge expunged and reduced to a dry reckless driving offense, which was a huge relief. From start to finish, he was professional, knowledgeable, and always took the time to explain everything clearly. He truly cared about my case and worked hard for the best possible outcome. I’m very grateful for his help and would highly recommend him to anyone needing a DUI lawyer.”

Click here to read the actual client review post on Google

Why This Result Matters

Securing a “Dry Reckless” (California Vehicle Code 23103) reduction is a significant victory. Unlike a standard DUI, a dry reckless charge:

  • Does not carry the same “priorable” weight as a DUI.
  • Typically results in lower fines and shorter probation periods.
  • Is often viewed more favorably by employers and licensing boards.
  • Does not result in a mandatory license suspension or requirement of an IID (ignition interlock device) on your car.

Matthew was also able to win the DMV hearing in the case resulting in the reinstatement of driving privileges and set aside of the dui arrest from the client’s DMV record. Furthermore, by following this reduction with an expungement, this client can now move forward with a clear record, ensuring that past mistakes do not dictate their future opportunities.

Dedicated Legal Representation in 2025

Legal standards and courtroom tactics evolve every year. Whether you are facing a first-time offense or seeking to clear your record, Matthew Ruff remains committed to providing the same professional, knowledgeable, and compassionate counsel described in this review.

If you or a loved one are facing DUI charges, don’t navigate the system alone. Experience the relief that comes with having a dedicated advocate in your corner. Matthew has a documented history of winning DUI cases, including “Not Guilty” Verdicts and reduction of charges.

Contact DUI Attorney Matthew Ruff today:

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Case Study: How Pre-Filing Intervention Dropped Public Intoxication and Resisting Arrest Charges in Long Beach

Posted on December 17, 2025 by thetorranceattorney
Matthew Ruff, Top Tier DUI & Criminal Defense

Facing criminal charges for Public Intoxication (PC 647(f)) and Resisting Arrest (PC 148) can be a terrifying experience, especially for a college student with their entire career ahead of them. In Long Beach, attorney Matthew Ruff has proven that the most effective defense often happens behind the scenes—before a case ever reaches a courtroom.

The Strategy: Proactive Pre-Filing Intervention

In a notable recent case, a local college student was arrested after an encounter with police in the busy nightlife district of Long Beach. Realizing that a criminal record could jeopardize the student’s financial aid, internships, and future job prospects, Matthew Ruff immediately went to work.

Rather than waiting for the scheduled court date, Ruff initiated a pre-filing intervention. This involves:

  • Direct Outreach to the Prosecutor: Ruff contacted the Long Beach City Prosecutor’s Office shortly after the arrest.
  • Presenting a “Human” Element: He provided evidence of the student’s academic achievements and lack of a prior criminal history, arguing that a permanent record was a disproportionate punishment for a one-time mistake.
  • Legal Arguments Against PC 647(f): Ruff challenged the prosecution’s ability to prove the student was truly unable to care for their own safety—a high legal bar required for a Public Intoxication (drunk in public) conviction.

The Result: No Charges Filed

By intervening early, Ruff successfully convinced the prosecutor that the interests of justice would not be served by moving forward. The City Prosecutor agreed to reject the case, meaning:

  • The Charges Were Dropped: No formal criminal complaint was ever filed with the court.
  • Clean Record: The student avoided the “resisting arrest” stigma that often prevents graduates from passing professional background checks.
  • No Courtroom Stress: The matter was resolved discreetly, allowing the student to stay focused on their studies without the shadow of a pending trial.

Why Local Expertise Matters

In Long Beach, the window between an arrest and a filing decision is narrow. Matthew Ruff’s deep familiarity with the Long Beach City Prosecutor’s policies allows him to present mitigation that often results in “DA Rejects” or “City Attorney Rejects.”

For any student or parent dealing with a recent arrest, the lesson is clear: don’t wait for the court date. If you or a loved one are facing charges, you can reach out to the Law Office of Matthew Ruff to discuss a pre-filing strategy.

Matthew Ruff is a Long Beach DUI Attorney and Criminal Defense Lawyer with over 30 years experience in Torrance, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Huntington Beach and throughout Southern California.

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