When facing a DUI in Los Angeles, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A conviction for driving under the influence carries mandatory fines, programs, and a permanent criminal record. However, as a recent case handled by the “Master of DUI Defense” Matthew Ruff at the Los Angeles Metropolitan Courthouse demonstrates, the right legal strategy can transform a dire situation into a manageable resolution.
In this specific matter, our client was originally charged with two serious counts under the California Vehicle Code:
• VC 23152(a): Driving under the influence of alcohol.
• VC 23152(b): Driving with a BAC of .08% or higher.
The Strategy: Challenging the Prosecution’s Narrative
The police reports indicated that the defendant was found stopped in a lane of traffic on the I-110 freeway. Officers reported a “strong odor of an alcoholic beverage” and claimed the driver performed poorly on Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs). To make matters more difficult, preliminary breath tests recorded levels of .149% and .145%—nearly double the legal limit.
Despite these daunting numbers, Matthew Ruff conducted a forensic review of the evidence. By scrutinizing the “welfare check” procedures and the timeline of the chemical testing, the defense was able to highlight significant evidentiary weaknesses.
The Outcome: Full DUI Dismissal
Through aggressive negotiation and by demonstrating the risks the prosecution faced if the case went to trial, Matthew Ruff secured a major victory for the client. As shown in the official court records:
• Count 01 (DUI) was DISMISSED.
• Count 02 (High BAC) was DISMISSED.
• The case was reduced to a single count of VC 23103 (Reckless Driving), commonly known as a “Wet Reckless.”
Why This Matters
A reduction to reckless driving is a superior outcome for several reasons. It typically involves shorter probation periods, lower fines, and avoids the more severe social and professional stigmas associated with a DUI conviction.
This case proves that even with high breath test results and freeway-side arrests, a “guilty” verdict is never a foregone conclusion. Professional intervention and a deep understanding of the Los Angeles court system are the keys to protecting your future.
“The goal is always to protect the client’s record. By getting the DUI counts dismissed, we ensured this individual could move forward without the weight of a criminal DUI conviction.” — Matthew Ruff, Lead Attorney
Matthew Ruff is a Los Angeles DUI Attorney with over 30 years experience.
