This week, we are highlighting a significant legal victory achieved by Torrance DUI Attorney Matthew Ruff for a client facing a second-offense DWI charge in Hermosa Beach. Through meticulous defense and a focus on procedural compliance, the potential for a long-term license suspension and a second DUI conviction was successfully averted.
The Incident and Charges
The case began on July 26, 2025, when the client was stopped at a DUI checkpoint in the 500 block of Pier Avenue in Hermosa Beach. Following the stop, the client was arrested and charged with:
• California Vehicle Code 23152(a): Driving under the influence of an alcoholic beverage.
• California Vehicle Code 23152(b): Driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher.
Further complicating the matter, the prosecution filed an amendment to the complaint in the Torrance Court, alleging a prior DUI conviction within the last ten years. Specifically, records indicated a previous DUI related prior violation on March 24, 2019, which resulted in a conviction later that year.
Critical Evidence and Testing
During the initial DWI checkpoint investigation, law enforcement noted several objective symptoms, including watery eyes and horizontal nystagmus. Preliminary Alcohol Screening (PAS) and subsequent breath tests at the police station yielded the following results:
• PAS Test 1: 0.123% BAC.
• Official Breath Samples: Two consecutive samples both showed a breath alcohol concentration of 0.11%.
The Defense Outcome
Despite the high BAC readings and the presence of a prior conviction, Hermosa Beach DUI Lawyer Matthew Ruff’s defense strategy led to a remarkably favorable outcome for the client:
• DUI Charges Dismissed: The original 23152(a) and 23152(b) charges were dismissed in court.
• Charges Reduced: The matter was successfully reduced to a “wet reckless” charge.
• DMV Victory: The DMV administrative suspension was rescinded, and the client’s driving privileges were fully reinstated.
This case demonstrates the importance of experienced Hermosa Beach DUI Attorney representation in navigating the complexities of both the court system and DMV administrative hearings, especially when facing the heightened penalties of a second DUI offense.
Matthew Ruff is a Top Tier DUI Defense Lawyer in Torrance California with over 30 years experience.
