DUI Defense in a Marijuana Violation

Posted by & filed under marijuana dui charges, The Travis Law Firm Blog.

The Travis Law Firm – Marijuana DUI Attorneys

When you face charges of driving under the influence involving a marijuana violation, you need legal representation that can present a strong DUI defense. An experienced DUI attorney can help navigate the intricacies of DUI laws and provide the defense necessary to protect your rights. Unlike alcohol-related charges, marijuana DUIs can be more complicated due to factors such as the absence of a standardized testing method and varying legal limits across jurisdictions.

Potential Consequences of a Marijuana Violation

When dealing with a marijuana-related DUI, understanding the potential legal penalties is crucial. These penalties can vary significantly depending on the jurisdiction and the case’s specifics. The consequences of a marijuana DUI may include:

  • Fines: Monetary penalties that can range significantly, affecting your financial stability.
  • License Suspension: Temporary or permanent loss of driving privileges, hindering your mobility.
  • Probation: Being placed under court supervision for a specified period, during which you must comply with certain conditions.
  • Incarceration: Serving time in jail or prison, dependent on the severity of the offense.
  • Community Service: Mandatory completion of court-ordered service hours contributing to local communities.
  • Substance Abuse Programs: Enrollment in and completion of drug education or treatment programs.

Ways a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Defend Your Marijuana Charge

  • Challenge the Evidence: An attorney can scrutinize the evidence presented against you, such as the method and timing of chemical tests, to identify any inaccuracies or lack of credibility.
  • Question Police Conduct: If there were any procedural errors or a lack of reasonable suspicion for the marijuana violation stop, your lawyer might argue for the suppression of evidence or even dismissal of the case.
  • Demonstrate Lack of Impairment: Your lawyer could introduce evidence or expert testimony to prove that you were not impaired at the time of driving, such as medical conditions that mimic impairment symptoms.
  • Argue Insufficient THC Levels: Since THC can remain in the body long after impairment subsides, your defense could involve demonstrating that the levels present did not indicate current impairment while driving.
  • Raise Issues with Field Sobriety Tests: Highlighting the unreliability or improper administration of field sobriety tests can weaken the prosecution’s case of proving impairment due to marijuana use.
  • Explore Alternative Explanations: Present alternative reasons for behavior or signs of impairment that are unrelated to drug use, such as fatigue, anxiety, or environmental factors.

Current Pennsylvania Marijuana Laws

In Pennsylvania, marijuana laws have undergone significant changes in recent years, reflecting a shift towards a more lenient stance on cannabis, particularly for medical use. Medical marijuana was legalized in 2016, allowing patients with qualifying medical conditions to obtain a medical marijuana card and purchase cannabis from state-approved dispensaries. However, recreational use remains illegal, and possession of small amounts of marijuana for personal use is still considered a misdemeanor, punishable by fines and potential jail time.

Advantages of Hiring a Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Lawyer After Being Charged With a Marijuana Violation

Hiring a criminal defense lawyer in Pennsylvania can significantly impact the outcome of a marijuana-related charge. An experienced attorney is well-versed in the nuances of the state’s marijuana laws and can navigate the legal system to reduce penalties or even have charges dismissed potentially. They have the expertise to scrutinize evidence, challenge improper procedures, and negotiate plea bargains when necessary. 

Additionally, a defense lawyer can provide valuable advice on your rights and the best course of action for your charge of a marijuana violation, helping alleviate the legal process’s stress and uncertainty. This professional support is crucial, particularly given the complex and evolving nature of marijuana legislation in Pennsylvania.

The Travis Law Firm – Marijuana DUI Attorneys

When facing DUI charges related to marijuana, clients can rely on The Travis Law Firm for steadfast support and protection of their rights. We are committed to working tirelessly toward a favorable outcome for each case. Call us at (814) 277-2222 to arrange a complimentary case evaluation. Alternatively, you can reach us online.