While most drivers know it is vital to avoid driving while under the influence of alcohol, many are unaware of the risks of driving high. Operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of marijuana can reduce your reaction time and endanger others, leading to devastating consequences and criminal charges. A marijuana DUI charge can have a major impact on your life, making it essential to do everything in your power to avoid the potential consequences.
If you were arrested and charged with a marijuana DUI, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney without delay. At Bernal Law, our principal Marijuana DUI attorney in San Diego has extensive experience prosecuting and defending against drug and DUI charges in California. He can offer you unparalleled support throughout the legal process as he fights for justice on your behalf. Our team has access to several helpful resources, strategies, and tools to help our clients fight the charges they face.
Defending Against Marijuana DUI Charges
It is essential to remember that even testing positive in a marijuana chemical test is not definitive proof that you were impaired. Those who use marijuana regularly can still have metabolites of the drug in their systems for several days after their last use. However, most highs only last a few hours after consuming the drug.
The prosecution’s job is to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were impaired while driving, which can be a tall task when facing an experienced and prepared San Diego Marijuana DUI attorney. A few common defenses to marijuana DUI charges in California include the following:
- The officer had no probable cause to pull you over
- The officer unlawfully arrested you before administering a chemical test
- Your blood was taken without your consent and a warrant
- The test produced a false positive
- You were not intoxicated while behind the wheel
- Your Miranda Rights were violated
While other defenses may apply to your case, a medical marijuana license is not among them. Just because you carry a marijuana prescription does not make it legal for you to drive while high. Your Marijuana DUI lawyer must be able to prove you were not impaired to successfully fight your marijuana DUI charges.
What Steps Should You Take If You Are Charged With a Marijuana DUI?
If you face charges for driving while under the influence of marijuana, there are several steps you can take to protect your rights and support your defense. The following strategies can help you reduce the risks associated with criminal charges:
Avoid Social Media
When you are involved in a criminal investigation, avoiding posting on your social media accounts is in your best interests. Doing so can help you avoid accidental incrimination, as any text, photos, or comments may be used against you by the prosecution. Even if your accounts and posts are private and unrelated to your case, they may still be used to challenge your alibi or establish your drug use. Deactivating your accounts throughout this process ensures that you cannot harm your case with your posts.
Do Not Discuss Your Case with Others
While speaking with friends and family about the charges you face may feel cathartic, discussing your case can lead to self-incrimination. The only exception to this rule is speaking with your Marijuana DUI lawyer in San Diego. We can support you throughout the legal process, as you will have the privacy and confidence an attorney-client relationship provides. Limiting your discussions about your case to interactions with your San Diego Marijuana DUI attorney can significantly decrease the risks associated with sharing information about your case.
Contact a Marijuana DUI Attorney in San Diego
A marijuana DUI defense attorney can help you throughout the legal process, including investigating every detail of your case, collecting and analyzing evidence, and building a solid defense on your behalf.
Speaking with a Marijuana DUI lawyer as soon as possible will also increase the likelihood of a successful outcome. This will allow your Marijuana DUI attorney adequate time to interview witnesses, pour over evidence, and work with you to understand the details of your case. Your Marijuana DUI lawyer in San Diego, CA should also be able to negotiate with the prosecution to have your charges reduced or dismissed before your case proceeds to trial.
Speak With a Skilled Marijuana DUI Defense Attorney at Bernal Law
At Bernal Law, we understand how challenging facing marijuana DUI charges can be and are here to help you fight for your rights. We believe in representing the criminally accused and work to ensure our clients receive a quality defense and a fair trial. Our lead Marijuana DUI attorney, Pedro Bernal, is fluent in both English and Spanish and provides a personalized approach to every case. Attorney Bernal has extensive experience working as a prosecuting attorney and can apply his unique perspective to help you fight your charges.
To discuss your case with a seasoned criminal defense attorney, schedule a free consultation today by calling (619) 736-9092 or completing our online contact form.