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Marietta Criminal Defense Lawyer / Norcross DUI Drugs Defense Lawyer

Norcross DUI Drugs Defense Lawyer

At Arca Law, we understand the serious consequences that come with a DUI drugs charge in Georgia. Driving under the influence of drugs is treated just as severely as alcohol-related DUIs, and it can be even harder to defend against. Georgia law prohibits operating a vehicle under the influence of any controlled substance, prescription medication, or over-the-counter drug that impairs your ability to drive safely. Our experienced DUI defense attorney, Alejandro Arca, has received specialized training in the Advanced Roadside Impairment Driving Enforcement (ARIDE) and Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) courses that many police officers take, so he won’t let the jury be taken in by the prosecution’s arguments. Arca Law is committed to protecting your rights and providing an aggressive defense to help you navigate these complex charges. Contact our experienced Norcross DUI drugs defense lawyer today.

What Is DUI Drugs in Georgia?

Under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-391), it is illegal to drive with any amount of a controlled substance (including marijuana) in your system, even if you do not exhibit outward signs of impairment. Unlike alcohol DUIs, which require proof that your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) exceeded 0.08%, there is no legal threshold for drugs. This means that you could be charged with a DUID if any detectable amount of drugs—whether illegal narcotics or certain prescription medications—are found in your system.

It’s important to note that Georgia’s DUI laws don’t only target illegal drug use. Prescription medications, such as painkillers or anxiety medication, can lead to a DUI drugs charge if they impair your ability to drive. Even some over-the-counter drugs, including sleep aids or cold medications, can cause impairment and result in charges.

Penalties for a DUI Drugs Conviction

If convicted of DUI drugs, you could face harsh penalties similar to those for alcohol-related DUI offenses, including:

  • Fines: First-time offenders may face fines ranging from $300 to $1,000.
  • Jail Time: A first offense can result in a minimum of 24 hours in jail, with the potential for up to 12 months.
  • License Suspension: A conviction could lead to a driver’s license suspension for one year, with the possibility of reinstatement after four months or a limited driving permit.
  • Probation: You may be subject to 12 months of probation, with restrictions on your driving privileges and other freedoms.
  • Community Service: First-time offenders must complete at least 40 hours of community service.
  • Mandatory Drug and Alcohol Counseling: Many individuals convicted of DUI are required to attend drug and alcohol treatment programs.

Subsequent offenses carry even more severe consequences, including longer jail sentences, increased fines, and extended license suspensions.

Defending Against DUI Drugs Charges in Norcross

A DUI drugs charge is complex, and law enforcement’s methods for detecting impairment due to drugs can be flawed. Unlike alcohol, there is no breathalyzer test for drugs, and the presence of drugs in your system does not necessarily indicate impairment at the time of your arrest. Alejandro Arca is well-versed in the nuances of DUI drug defense and will thoroughly investigate your case to challenge the evidence presented against you.

Some potential defenses include:

  • Questioning Drug Testing Procedures: Blood and urine tests are often used to detect drugs, but these tests can be unreliable. False positives can occur, or tests may fail to demonstrate when the drug was taken. Our team will scrutinize the procedures used by law enforcement to ensure proper testing protocols were followed.
  • Challenging the Officer’s Observations: In many cases, DUI drugs charges are based on an officer’s subjective observations of your behavior, such as erratic driving or slurred speech. However, these symptoms can also result from fatigue, anxiety, or medical conditions unrelated to drug use.
  • Prescription Drug Defense: If you were taking a legally prescribed medication, you may have a defense if the drug was not consumed in an improper or illegal manner. We will argue in appropriate cases that your use of prescription medication did not impair your driving ability.

Why Choose Arca Law for DUI Drugs Defense in Norcross?

At Arca Law, our skilled DUI defense attorneys have a deep understanding of Georgia’s DUI laws and a proven record of defending clients in Norcross against DUI drugs charges. We know how to challenge drug test results, contest law enforcement procedures, and fight for reduced penalties or dismissed charges. Every case is unique, and we will work closely with you to build a customized defense strategy tailored to the specifics of your situation.

A DUI drugs conviction can have lasting consequences, including a criminal record, loss of driving privileges, and increased insurance premiums. Don’t face these charges alone—our legal team is here to provide you with the experienced representation you need to defend your rights and safeguard your future.

Contact Arca Law for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been charged with driving under the influence of drugs in Norcross, it is critical to seek legal counsel as soon as possible. Contact Arca Law today at 770-800-8100 for a free consultation. We will review your case, explain your legal options, and develop a strategy to help you achieve the best possible outcome. Our Norcross DUI defense team is ready to fight for you.