Marietta DUI Drugs Defense Lawyer
Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs is a serious charge in Georgia that can result in severe penalties, including fines, driver’s license suspension, and even jail time. Attorney Alejandro Arca, the lead attorney at Arca Law, is specially trained in drug recognition and can go toe-to-toe with law enforcement officers and prosecutors in the courtroom. If you have been arrested for driving under the influence of drugs in Cobb County, trust your case to a skilled and experienced Marietta DUI Drugs defense lawyer at Arca Law.
What Constitutes DUI Drugs in Georgia?
In Georgia, it is illegal to drive under the influence of any drug to the extent that it is less safe to drive. This includes illegal substances like marijuana, cocaine, and methamphetamine, as well as prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs. Even if you have a valid prescription, you can still be charged with DUI if the drug impairs your driving ability. Georgia’s DUI laws do not differentiate between illegal drugs and legally prescribed medications when it comes to impaired driving.
Unlike alcohol-related DUI cases, where a breathalyzer can measure blood alcohol concentration (BAC), there is no equivalent test for drug impairment. As a result, DUI drug cases often rely on subjective evaluations by law enforcement officers along with chemical tests such as blood or urine tests. Any detectable amount of a controlled substance is enough to lead to a DUI arrest in Georgia. These laws can make DUI drug charges more complex than alcohol-related cases, but they can also open the door to challenges in court.
Defending Against DUI Drug Charges in Marietta
A DUI drug charge can feel like a crushing weight on your life, but with an experienced defense attorney, you can fight back. At Arca Law, we carefully examine every aspect of your case to develop the strongest defense possible. Here are some common defense strategies for DUI drug charges:
- Challenging the Traffic Stop: If law enforcement did not have probable cause to pull you over, any evidence obtained during the stop could be thrown out. We investigate whether the stop was lawful and whether your constitutional rights were violated.
- Questioning the Drug Recognition Evaluation (DRE): Georgia law enforcement officers may use drug recognition evaluations to determine impairment, but these evaluations are not always accurate. We scrutinize the DRE process and the qualifications of the officer who conducted it. Alejandro Arca has himself received ARIDE and DRE training, so he knows what the police know when it comes to this critical step.
- Contesting Chemical Test Results: Blood and urine tests can sometimes produce inaccurate results due to contamination, improper handling, or faulty testing procedures. We work with experts to analyze the accuracy and reliability of the testing methods used in your case.
- Prescription Medication Defense: If you were taking a legally prescribed medication, we may be able to demonstrate that the medication did not impair your ability to drive safely.
Potential Penalties for DUI Drugs in Georgia
The penalties for a DUI Drugs conviction in Georgia can be severe, and they often escalate with subsequent offenses. First-time offenders may face:
- Fines ranging from $300 to $1,000
- A minimum of 24 hours in jail, with the potential for up to 12 months
- Mandatory drug and alcohol evaluation
- DUI school
- 12 months probation – no drugs or alcohol
- Subject to random drug and alcohol screen
- A 12-month driver’s license suspension
- Community service
For second and subsequent DUI drug offenses, the penalties increase significantly, including longer jail sentences, larger fines, and extended license suspensions. Additionally, a DUI Drugs conviction can have long-term consequences, including difficulty securing employment, higher insurance premiums, and a permanent criminal record.
Why Choose Arca Law for Your Marietta DUI Drug Defense?
At Arca Law, our attorneys have extensive experience defending clients against DUI drug charges in Marietta and the surrounding areas. We understand the nuances of Georgia’s DUI laws and are dedicated to protecting your rights throughout every stage of the legal process. Our firm’s approach is client-centered, focusing on personalized defense strategies tailored to the unique circumstances of your case.
We take the time to investigate the evidence thoroughly and work to identify any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Whether it’s negotiating for a reduction in charges, seeking alternative sentencing options, or taking your case to trial, our team will fight for the best possible outcome.
Contact Arca Law Today
If you or a loved one has been charged with DUI drugs in Marietta, don’t wait to seek legal help. The sooner you have an experienced attorney on your side, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome. Contact Arca Law today at 770-00-8100 for a free consultation, and let us provide the strong defense you need to protect your future.