When most people think of a DUI, they automatically think of drinking and driving. However, many people in Provo and throughout the state of Utah are charged every month with driving under the influence of marijuana or some other drug related DUI. The common scenario typically goes something like this: A person is driving down the road when suddenly they notice a police officer behind them with their lights on pulling them over. The officer approaches the vehicle, mentions the driver was pulled over for some minor traffic issue such as failing to signal, speeding, or any other number of possibilities. After a minute or two the officer starts asking questions about pot. The officer perhaps indicates he/she smells weed in the vehicle. Almost always the cop then asks permission to search the car. If the driver is smart they say no. However, more often than not driver either consents to the search or even just hands over the marijuana and/or paraphernalia. The driver is then asked to exit the vehicle and given field sobriety tests. In many cases a blood sample is taken from the driver as well. The driver is ultimately charged with a drug related DUI, possession of marijuana, and paraphernalia. If this sounds like your case, you need to speak with a Provo DUI attorney at our office as soon as possible.
Utah Drug Related DUI Laws
In Utah, the penalties for a drug related DUI can be severe. As with an alcohol related offense, a marijuana case can result in the loss of your driver’s license. There is always the potential for jail time so you should take this matter very seriously. When you have been charged with a drug DUI, a DUI metabolite in Utah, the state need only prove you were driving with any measurable controlled substance. This is unlike an alcohol related offense where the .08 standard applies. For more information on the Utah drug related DUI laws, call us today at 801.900.3371.
Provo Criminal Defense Lawyer
A Provo criminal defense lawyer at our Utah County law firm is ready to help you through this difficult process. We view these cases from every angle and work hard to get you the best possible result. In DUI cases, you only have a few short days to request a hearing on your driver’s license; otherwise your license is suspended automatically. Don’t delay, call or email us now to get started. We are open all the time and you can get us retained right over the phone.