Even though recreational marijuana is legal in California, it is illegal to drive while impaired. Being charged with a marijuana DUI can carry serious consequences that affect your future. You have the right to defend yourself, but you’ll need an experienced marijuana DUI lawyer in Westminster to do so effectively.
An attorney will carefully review your arrest and the circumstances of your traffic stop, gather evidence, and build a strong defense. Los Angeles DUI Lawyer can connect you with a trusted Westminster DUI lawyer who has the experience and knowledge to pursue the best possible outcome.
How a Westminster Marijuana DUI Lawyer Can Assist
If you’re charged with a marijuana DUI, an attorney can guide you through the legal process, answer your questions, and work to protect your driving record.
An experienced Westminster marijuana DUI attorney can:
- Examine police reports, bodycam footage, and lab results
- Identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
- Develop a strong defense strategy tailored to your situation
- Negotiate for reduced charges, such as reckless driving
- Represent you at DMV hearings to help prevent license suspension
- Explore alternatives like DUI education programs
- Prepare for trial and defend your case in court
- Keep you informed at every step of the process
Acting quickly is crucial. You only have 10 days from your arrest to request a DMV hearing to challenge an automatic license suspension. Your lawyer will advocate for you during the hearing to protect your driving privileges.
What Qualifies as a Marijuana DUI in California
In California, you can be charged with a marijuana DUI if you drive while impaired and your ability to operate a vehicle safely is affected. Under California Vehicle Code 23152(f), driving under the influence of any drug, including marijuana, is illegal.
Unlike alcohol, no set THC level automatically proves impairment. Instead, officers assess your behavior, administer field sobriety tests, and may use blood or urine tests to detect the presence of THC.
Marijuana DUI Penalties in Westminster
Penalties for a marijuana DUI are similar to those for alcohol-related DUIs and vary depending on whether it’s your first offense or if you have prior convictions. Even though marijuana is legal in California, driving while impaired is still a crime.
First Offense
A first marijuana DUI can result in up to six months in jail, fines up to $1,000 plus additional fees, license suspension, DUI classes, and probation. You may be eligible for a restricted license during the suspension. Probation usually lasts three to five years and may include court-mandated conditions.
Second and Third Offenses
Repeat offenses carry stiffer penalties, including longer jail time (up to one year), higher fines, and extended license suspensions, sometimes up to three years. Offenders may also be required to attend longer DUI education programs, typically 18 to 30 months, and install an ignition interlock device.
DUI Involving Injury or Death
If your DUI caused injury or death, it can be charged as a felony, leading to state prison time, higher fines, and restitution to victims. The severity of penalties depends on the extent of injuries and the number of victims involved.
Other Long-Term Consequences
A marijuana DUI conviction can have lasting effects. You may face higher insurance rates, a 10-year mark on your driving record, and difficulties with employment or professional licensing. The impact can continue to affect your personal and professional life for years.
Legal Defenses a Lawyer Can Use Against a Marijuana DUI
Being charged with a marijuana DUI doesn’t automatically mean you’ll face severe penalties. A Westminster marijuana DUI lawyer can build a strong defense and work to have your charges reduced or dismissed.
Depending on the facts of your case, your attorney may use defenses such as:
- You were not impaired, even if THC was in your system
- Errors occurred in testing, storing, or handling your blood sample
- Police failed to follow proper procedures, making the evidence invalid
- Officers did not have probable cause to stop your vehicle
Every case is different. These are just a few examples of defenses a lawyer can use. Contact a qualified attorney to explore your options and get the guidance you need to protect your future.
Hire a Westminster Marijuana DUI Lawyer With Local Experience
A local DUI attorney understands California’s marijuana laws and how they apply to your situation. Working with someone familiar with your area can strengthen your defense and improve your chances of a favorable outcome.
A Westminster marijuana DUI lawyer knows the local courts, judges, and prosecutors, as well as the specific rules that may affect your case. Their experience can be valuable when negotiating reduced charges or seeking alternative sentencing options.
Get Help From a Westminster Marijuana DUI Lawyer
In California, a marijuana DUI is treated as seriously as an alcohol DUI, and prosecutors often push for the harshest penalties. Facing the legal system can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone.
A marijuana DUI attorney in Westminster will review your case, protect your rights, and work to reduce the impact on your life. In some situations, an attorney may even help get your charges dropped or prove your innocence in court.
Los Angeles DUI Lawyer has years of experience connecting Californians facing DUI charges with skilled attorneys who can guide them through this challenging time. Call today to get the support and legal representation you need.
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