Getting arrested for driving under the influence of marijuana can be confusing and frightening. Your license, job, and freedom could all be at risk. You can get legal help with your case from a Pomona marijuana DUI lawyer. They can explain your rights and guide you on what to do next.
A marijuana DUI charge isn’t the same as an alcohol-related offense for driving under the influence (DUI). Officers may base the arrest on signs of impairment, even if there’s no proof that you were too high to drive.
These cases are hard to prove and full of legal gray areas. Having a skilled Pomona DUI lawyer handling your case can make a difference in your outcome. You can review your legal options when you call Los Angeles DUI Lawyer to get connected with an attorney for a free consultation.
What Is a Marijuana DUI in California?
Driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal in California, even though recreational use is legal. You don’t have to be drunk to get a DUI. It is against the law to drive while under the influence of any drug, including cannabis.
Unlike alcohol DUIs, there is no clear legal limit for THC, which stands for tetrahydrocannabinol, the active ingredient in marijuana. This makes these cases more complex. Police often rely on physical signs of being high, like red eyes, slow speech, or poor coordination. However, other things can cause these signs.
Penalties for a marijuana-related DUI offense may include:
- Jail time
- Fines and court fees
- Probation
- Mandatory drug treatment
- License suspension
- Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID)
Penalties can be worse if this is your second or third offense, or if there was an accident involved.
What to Expect After a Marijuana DUI Arrest in Pomona, CA
Here’s what might happen after law enforcement arrests you:
- Your driver’s license could be taken away.
- You may be asked to take a blood or urine test.
- The state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) could start a license suspension.
- You may get a court date for a criminal hearing.
After a DUI arrest, it’s common to feel unsure about what happens next. Many people don’t realize how serious the penalties for a DUI in California can be. A lawyer can step in, protect your rights, and take care of deadlines and paperwork so you don’t miss your chance to defend yourself.
DMV Hearings and License Suspension
Many people don’t realize that a marijuana DUI triggers two separate processes:
- A criminal court case
- A DMV administrative action that can suspend your license
After a DUI arrest in California, you usually have just 10 days to request a hearing with the DMV.
If you miss this deadline, the state could automatically suspend your driver’s license, even before your court date.
A lawyer can request a hearing for you and represent you during the process. They may be able to argue that your license should not be suspended, especially if the evidence is weak or the arrest was unlawful.
How a Lawyer Can Help With a Marijuana DUI in Pomona, CA
If you’re facing a marijuana DUI charge in Pomona, a criminal defense lawyer can do more than just go to court with you. They can take steps to protect your freedom and future.
You can expect an attorney working on your behalf to:
- Review the evidence: Challenge the reason for the traffic stop or the arrest.
- Dispute drug test results: THC can stay in your system for days or weeks, even if you weren’t high while driving.
- Question the officer’s opinion: Fight claims that you were impaired based only on appearance or behavior.
- Negotiate with prosecutors: Push for reduced charges or dismissal.
- Represent you in court: Defend you at hearings or a trial.
- Handle license issues: Help with DMV hearings to protect your driving privileges.
- File an appeal: If needed, file paperwork to challenge an unfair result.
When Should You Hire a Marijuana DUI Lawyer?
You do not have to wait until you face formal charges. A lawyer can start helping you as soon as you are:
- Pulled over for suspected DUI
- Arrested on DUI charges
- Under investigation
- Asked to speak with the police
Early legal help can keep you from saying something that may be used against you later. A Pomona marijuana DUI offense lawyer will explain how California law affects your case and start building a strong defense right away.
What Makes DUI Cases Involving Cannabis Hard to Prove?
Marijuana affects people in different ways, and THC doesn’t leave the body right away. This makes it hard to know if someone was actually impaired while driving.
Problems with proving marijuana impairment include:
- No official limit like a 0.08% BAC for alcohol
- Blood tests only show recent use, not impairment
- Field sobriety tests are not made for drug use and can give false results
- An officer’s opinion is often subjective and can be wrong
An experienced lawyer for marijuana DUI charges in Pomona will challenge any weak spots in your case.
Possible Defenses to a Marijuana DUI Charge in California
Not every DUI charge ends in a conviction. A lawyer can use many defenses, depending on your case.
Common defenses include:
- You were not impaired at the time of driving.
- You were pulled over without legal cause.
- The officer did not follow proper procedures.
- The test results were flawed or unreliable.
- You have a medical condition that explains your behavior.
- You were using marijuana legally and responsibly.
Every DUI case is different, and the right defense depends on the facts. A Pomona marijuana DUI attorney can review what happened, explain your options, and build a strategy that fits your situation.
You don’t have to face these charges alone—get the guidance you need to protect your future. Call Los Angeles DUI Lawyer today.
What to Do After a Marijuana DUI Arrest
Getting arrested for a marijuana DUI can be overwhelming. What you do next can affect your case and your future. Here are important steps to follow:
- Stay calm and respectful: Don’t argue with the officer or try to explain. What you say can be used against you.
- Say as little as possible: You have the right to remain silent. You are not required to answer questions about marijuana use.
- Don’t agree to DUI field sobriety tests: These tests are voluntary and often unreliable, especially in marijuana cases.
- Ask for a lawyer: You have the right to legal counsel before speaking with the police.
- Avoid talking about the case: Don’t share details with friends, family, or on social media.
- Write down what happened: As soon as you can, write down everything you remember about the stop and arrest.
Reaching out to a Pomona marijuana DUI lawyer early can help protect your rights and guide your next steps.
Get Help From a Lawyer for a Pomona Marijuana DUI Offense
A marijuana DUI charge can change your life, but it doesn’t have to ruin it. A Pomona marijuana DUI lawyer will explain what California Vehicle Code § 23152(f) means and how it could affect the outcome of your case.
They will also protect your rights, fight to keep you out of jail, and work to get the best outcome for you. Don’t wait to get the help you deserve. Call Los Angeles DUI Lawyer to learn about the next steps to take and get connected with a local attorney for a free consultation.
