If you get charged with driving under the influence and decide to go to trial, the prosecution has to prove the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Otherwise, the jury is supposed to acquit you.
This article gives an overview of what the prosecution needs prove to get a DUI conviction. For more detailed information about the DUI laws in your state, see our state-specific pages.
Generally, the prosecution needs to prove two elements for a jury to find you guilty of a DUI charge. The prosecution must show that you were:
Some states also require the prosecution to prove that the defendant was driving on a public—rather than private—road.
If the prosecution can prove these elements beyond a reasonable doubt, chances are the jury will convict the defendant.
In many states, you can get a DUI even if you weren't actually driving. Though most of the states that don't require actual driving still call the crime "driving under the influence" (DUI) or "driving while intoxicated" (DWI), prosecutors in these states can prove the "driving" element by showing the motorist was "operating" or "in actual physical control" of a vehicle. In other words, proof that the driver was behind the wheel with the car in motion is sufficient—but not required—to prove the driving element.
State laws vary on what exactly it means to be operating or in actual control of a vehicle. But typically, the judge or jury deciding the case will look at a variety of factors when deciding whether the prosecution has proven the element. These factors are ordinarily based on police observations at the scene of the defendant's arrest and might include whether:
Some states, however, require proof of actual driving for a DUI conviction. For example, in California, a defendant can be found guilty of a DUI only if the prosecution proves "volitional movement of a vehicle."
To prove a driver was under the influence, the prosecution generally has two options:
Proving BAC is usually easier than showing impairment. However, it's common for prosecutors to file two charges in a DUI complaint—one based on impairment and a second alleging excessive BAC. By filing two charges—though perhaps only one might stick—the prosecution can maximize their chances of getting a conviction.
Some state laws prohibit driving under the influence anywhere in the state. In these states, you can get a DUI regardless of where in the state you were driving. In other states, however, drunk driving is illegal only in places that are "open to the general public." Places open to the public not only includes public properties like city streets and state highways, but also privately owned properties like shopping mall parking lots.
The consequences of a DUI conviction are serious, and DUI laws vary by state. If you've been arrested for driving under the influence, get in contact with an experienced DUI lawyer in your area. A good DUI attorney can analyze the facts of your case and tell you how the law of your state applies.