Many people associate driving under the influence (DUI) charges with alcohol, but drivers can face DUI charges for driving while high on marijuana. In Connecticut, driving while under the influence of marijuana is a crime with serious penalties. Just like an alcohol based DUI, you can face license suspensions, fines, probation, and even a jail sentence. 

You Need an Aggressive Marijuana DUI Attorney Fighting for You

Have you been arrested for driving while under the influence by marijuana in Waterbury, Connecticut, or the surrounding area? If so, you will benefit from discussing your case with an aggressive criminal defense attorney today. The attorneys at The Kaloidis Law Firm, LLC, have a well-deserved reputation for being fighters for our clients.  We will immediately begin aggressively advocating for you and your rights.

The Elements of a Marijuana DUI Charge

Sometimes people assume that marijuana-related charges are not as serious as other criminal charges. Connecticut has legalized the use of small amounts of marijuana recreationally, but drivers can still face DUI charges related to marijuana. The possession and use of up to 1.5 oz of marijuana are now legal for recreational purposes. You can also possess up to 5 ounces in a locked container.  However, if a person uses marijuana, even an amount that is legal, and then decides to drive while under the influence of marijuana, DUI charges result. 

Prosecutors must be able to prove that the driver did operate a vehicle while under marijuana’s influence. Proving impairment is more difficult in marijuana DUI cases than alcohol-related ones. For example, Law Enforcement Officers can use breathalyzer tests to determine a driver’s blood alcohol level. It is not as easy to determine how marijuana is affecting the driver.

Do I Have to Take a Blood or Urine Test for Marijuana?

No, you do not have to consent to a test. However, if you refuse to take the test, you can face penalties. Connecticut is one of many implied consent states. Vehicle operators who drive on the roads gave plaid consent to submit to urine, blood, or breathalyzer testing when suspected of driving while impaired. A driver who refuses to test could face an administrative driver’s license suspension. If you have already refused to submit to a test, we recommend reaching out to an attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can represent you during the administrative hearing and fight for your right to keep your driver’s license.

The Penalties for a Marijuana DUI Conviction 

If you are convicted of driving while under the influence of marijuana in Connecticut, you are at risk of facing the same penalties as those convicted of drunk driving. If you are a first-time offender, you could face up to six months in jail, expensive fines, and losing your driver’s license for up to a year. Defendants convicted of a DUI again within 10 years of the initial conviction will face even more serious penalties. 

They could face extended jail time, more expensive lines, and the possibility of losing their driver’s licenses for longer. Depending on the case, a driver’s license suspension could also be a potential penalty. Defendants can also face loss of employment, negative immigration implications, and other personal and professional difficulties if convicted. 

We Offer Clients an Aggressive Legal Defense in Marijuana DUI Cases

To convict a defendant of a marijuana DUI charge, prosecutors must prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt, which is the highest standard of proof. We handle marijuana DUI cases the same way we handle other cases; we will prepare the case as if we are going to trial. 

When you work with one of the aggressive attorneys at The Kaloidis Law Firm, LLC, you can rest assured that we will investigate your case and determine the weakest points of the prosecutor’s case against you. We will negotiate aggressively with the prosecutor in an effort to have the charges against you dismissed, or reduced. Contact The Kaloidis Law Firm, LLC today to schedule an initial consultation.