DeKalb County DUI Drugs Lawyer
Most people know that they can be arrested and charged for driving under the influence of alcohol. However, it is critical to know that charges can apply if you drive under the influence of drugs, as well. There are different types of charges that can apply in these cases. Our DeKalb County DUI drugs lawyer explains what these are, the associated penalties, and more below.
DUI Drugs Less Safe
Just as Georgia law outlines a crime of DUI less safe associated with alcohol, you can also be charged with DUI less safe if you have drugs in your system and are impaired to the point that it is not safe for you to operate a vehicle. The prosecution can still proceed with charges for DUI drugs if you have refused a chemical test such as a breath, blood, or urine test.
When pursuing these charges, the prosecution also does not have to show that there was a certain level of drugs in your system. They must only present evidence that you were impaired, which may include:
- Bloodshot eyes
- Constricted or dilated pupils
- Erratic driving
- Slurred speech
- Evidence of drugs in the vehicle
- Admittance to using drugs
Prescription Medications are Not a Defense to DUI Drugs
When many people think of DUI drugs charges, they often think of illegal drugs such as marijuana, LSD, cocaine, and more. However, you can also face charges of DUI drugs if you are under the influence of prescription medication. In these cases, though, you cannot be charged with possession if the medication was legally prescribed to you. The prosecution must be able to show that the use of prescription drugs made it impossible for you to drive safely.
Penalties for DUI Drugs
A charge for DUI drugs is generally classified as a misdemeanor. The penalties include up to 12 months in jail and a maximum $1,000 fine. Other penalties may include 12 months of probation, 40 hours of community service, clinical drugs and alcohol evaluation, and DUI school. Driver’s license suspensions of six months are also very common in DUI drug cases. These penalties are similar to DUI cases involving alcohol.
The penalties become harsher when a person is convicted of subsequent DUI drugs. For a second conviction in ten years, a person will be sentenced to at least 72 hours in jail, a minimum $600 fine, 12 months of probation, 30 days of community service, clinical drug and alcohol evaluation, and DUI school. Your driver’s license will also be under a ‘hard suspension,’ meaning you cannot obtain a limited work permit.
Our DeKalb County DUI Drugs Lawyer Can Provide the Defense You Need
At The Spizman Firm, our DUI drugs lawyer in DeKalb County can review the facts of your case and determine the best defense strategy that will help you beat the charges and retain your freedom. Reach out to us to schedule a consultation with our experienced attorney and to get the sound legal advice you need.
