It may be legal to possess small amounts of marijuana in Washington, but it is still illegal to drive while under the influence of marijuana and other drugs. If you are facing charges of driving while under the influence of marijuana, it is in your best interest to have a knowledgeable defense lawyer looking out for you.
I have been representing people in Bellevue, Seattle and surrounding areas of western Washington for more than 25 years. I have seen how the laws have changed and have a unique understanding of the jury pools that could make all the difference in the outcome of your case if it goes to trial.
How Is Marijuana DUI Measured?
Drivers are considered to be over the legal limit of alcohol when blood alcohol content is above .08. For marijuana, the chemical THC is measured in the blood and cannot be in excess of five nanograms per milliliter. The limit for drivers under the age of 21 is zero nanograms.
The Consequences Of Marijuana DUI
You face the same criminal and administrative issues that you would face if charged with driving under the influence of alcohol. That means if you do not fight at the hearing for the suspension of your driver's license, you will lose it for at least 90 days in addition to the criminal consequences that come with a conviction.
Defending against a marijuana DUI also has similarities to cases involving alcohol. There has to be probable cause for the traffic stop, and any tests that are performed must be done properly according to regulation using the right equipment. If there are evidentiary issues at play in your case, I will fight to have evidence suppressed or the charges dropped altogether.
Beyond the criminal and administrative consequences of marijuana DUI, your reputation and livelihood may also be at stake if you do not fight the charges. Even though marijuana is now legal, there is still a stigma in most places of employment involving employees using marijuana recreationally off the clock. As with many issues in someone's private life, this is clearly something most people would rather not have to discuss with their employer. I can help avoid having that difficult conversation.
I'm Ready To Fight For You
The best way to successfully defeat marijuana DUI charges is to have an attorney on your side who the prosecution knows is capable of winning a case at trial. That's what I can provide you with. Contact me today for a no-cost assessment of your defense options.