Most people are not aware that driving under the influence (DUI) includes more than just alcohol. In Florida, you could also be arrested and charged with a DUI if you are drug impaired. The type of drugs that could be included are illegal substances, prescription medications, or over-the-counter products. Drug-related DUI cases are often complex, and the penalties could be just as severe as those for alcohol-related charges. If you were arrested for a drug-related DUI, you need the experience and legal insight of a Jacksonville drug DUI lawyer.
At Problems? Pick Porter!™, we know that facing criminal charges can be frightening. Our DUI defense team is here to inform you of your rights. We recognize that this process can be overwhelming, and our team is ready to support you throughout it. We are committed to properly evaluating the evidence against you and aggressively pursuing the best possible outcome.
Understanding Drug-Related DUI Charges
In Florida, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of any substance that impairs your normal faculties. This includes controlled substances, such as marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, and opioids, but it also applies to lawfully prescribed medications and some types of allergy or sleep medications. If one of these substances affects your ability to drive safely, you could be charged with a DUI.
Alcohol-related DUI cases tend to be straightforward, since a breath test could determine your blood alcohol concentration. However, drug DUI cases typically rely on more complex evidence. Officers may base their arrest on a variety of findings, such as field sobriety tests, the presence of drugs in your system, or the observations of a drug recognition expert. This can lead to errors and false accusations.
Our Jacksonville attorneys know how to challenge flawed tests, questionable procedures, and weak evidence in drug DUI cases. We examine every detail of your stop, arrest, and testing process to determine whether your rights were violated and if the charges could be reduced or dismissed.
What Are the Consequences of a Drug DUI Conviction?
A drug DUI conviction carries serious legal and personal consequences. Penalties could include:
- Jail time
- Fines and court costs
- License suspension or revocation
- Mandatory DUI school
- Community service
- Probation
- Installation of an ignition interlock device (in some cases)
These penalties could be even more severe if it is your second or third DUI offense or your case involves an accident, injury, or property damage. A conviction may also affect other aspects of your life, including employment, insurance rates, and professional licensing.
Hiring a Jacksonville lawyer who has experience with drug DUI cases could help you avoid or minimize these penalties. We fight to protect your record, license, and freedom.
Building a Strong Defense
Every DUI case is different, and drug DUIs present unique challenges when building a defense. Our firm works to identify the factors that may help your case, including:
- Unlawful traffic stops
- Faulty field sobriety tests
- Improper drug testing
- Legitimate medical use
Our skilled drug DUI attorneys could thoroughly investigate your case and explain every legal option available to you in Jacksonville.
Speak With an Attorney in Jacksonville About Your Drug DUI Charges Today
Do not let a drug-related DUI charge define your future. At Problems? Pick Porter!™, we are ready to fight for your rights and help you seek the best possible result. Whether you were charged after taking a prescription medication or accused of driving under the influence of an illegal substance, we are here to help.
Call Jason K.S. Porter, PA to speak with a Jacksonville drug DUI lawyer and start building your defense.