FIGHTING A MARIJUANA DUI
Marijuana DUI
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DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF MARIJUANA
As of December 2023, recreational and medical marijuana are legal in Ohio, but the State’s DUI/OVI laws remain unchanged. A driver can still be charged with a DUI if (a) the police officer believes that the driver is impaired; or (b) a drug test shows the driver to be over the legal limit for THC.
An arrest for driving under the influence of marijuana DUI (aka drugged driving DUI) in Columbus is just as severe as an alcohol-related DUI.
Common
Questions
01
Is a marijuana or drug DUI a misdemeanor or felony offense?
Drugged driving is treated the same as drunk driving and is most often charged as a misdemeanor. However, depending on the circumstances surrounding your arrest, you could be charged with a felony. For example, if law enforcement believes that you drove under the influence of marijuana or other drug and caused the death of another person, you could face an aggravated vehicular homicide charge. Aggravated vehicular homicide is a felony of the second degree or higher, punishable by incarceration, substantial fines, and other penalties.
02
What are the risks of misdemeanor marijuana or drug DUI?
If you are charged with misdemeanor marijuana or drug-related DUI in Columbus, the consequences can include:
- Suspension of your driver’s license
- Loss of driving privileges
- Fines between $350 – $1,000
- Up to 1 year in jail
- House arrest
- Court-mandated drug program
03
How accurate are Marijuana DUI field tests?
While the enforcement of marijuana DUIs laws are on the rise, blood tests, and marijuana/drug DUI field tests are not always reliable. The blood tests used to determine if someone is under the influence of drugs do not necessarily reflect how recently the drug was consumed. It is possible you consumed drugs weeks ago and still test positive for inactive drug metabolites. Inactive metabolites do not, generally, impair a person’s ability to drive. Law enforcement may claim to have training in drug impairment and even have the title of a “Drug Recognition Expert.” Yet the training is often insufficient, and the officers often fail to comply with their limited training.
Don’t wait to take action after your DUI arrest.
If you have been arrested for a marijuana or drug DUI in Columbus, you need a defense attorney who will fight to protect your rights. See recent case results. At Akamine Law, we have experience in reducing as well as completely dismissing drugged driving charges. No matter what facts you are up against, we will draw upon 20 years of DUI experience to seek the best defense. Do not go to court unprepared, hire Nathan Akamine.
Contact Akamine Law to start fighting your DUI charge.
If you or a loved one is facing a DUI charge in Columbus, Ohio, don’t face it alone. We are here to help. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step towards protecting your rights and fighting your DUI charge. We are ready to stand by your side and provide the expert legal guidance you need during this challenging time.