Under The Influence Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Under The Influence, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Under The Influence?

(n) Under the influence phrase is used when someone is not acting in his full consciousness state of mind. Such state of mind may occur due to intake of alcohol, excessive seductive medicine or intoxicating drugs etc.Contracts entered ‘under the influences’ are not enforceable.

History and Meaning of Under The Influence

The term "Under The Influence" is a legal term used to describe a state of impairment caused by alcohol, drugs, or other intoxicating substances. The legal definition varies by jurisdiction, but generally, it refers to a state where someone has consumed enough of a substance to affect their physical and mental abilities. The term has been present in legal vocabulary for many years and is used in DUI/DWI cases worldwide.

Examples of Under The Influence

  1. A police officer may arrest an individual for suspicion of DUI if they smell alcohol on their breath, observe erratic driving, and notice slurred speech and disorientation.

  2. A worker who smoked marijuana before coming to work and is unable to perform their job responsibilities due to their intoxication could be let go by their employer.

  3. An individual who is under the influence of a prescription medication that affects their ability to drive may face charges for driving under the influence.

Legal Terms Similar to Under The Influence

  1. Driving Under the Influence (DUI): A criminal charge for operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol.

  2. Driving While Intoxicated (DWI): A criminal charge for operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol.

  3. Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC): The percentage of alcohol in a person's bloodstream. It's used as a measure of a person’s level of intoxication.