Oakland County DUI Drug Lawyer

Driving while under the influence of even a small amount of a controlled substance could lead to DUI charges in Oakland County. Depending on the number of prior convictions a person has, the consequences for a charge of driving while on drugs can be drastic. Fortunately, you do not have to face allegations of wrongdoing on your own.

An Oakland County DUI drug lawyer can help defend against a prosecutor’s claims or build a strong strategy for trial. An experienced criminal lawyer could answer questions regarding the charges you face, the potential consequences, and how to protect your rights.

The Michigan Vehicle Code §257.625 outlines the laws related to driving while under the influence of a controlled substance. Any trace amount of a Schedule 1 controlled substance could lead to a conviction for driving under the influence.

The law does not allow sobriety checkpoints in Oakland County. For this reason, the police may pull people over a driver if the officer suspects drug intoxication. However, the police are unable to test for drugs on the side of the road and must rely on other methods to determine impairment, such as driver observation and field tests. If the police find probable cause to arrest a person, they can conduct further drug tests.

A seasoned criminal lawyer could investigate charges and determine the legality of police conduct leading to a DUI drug arrest. Depending on the circumstances, an Oakland County DUI drug attorney can use this information to build a strong defense to any charges of driving while intoxicated by drugs.

If the police suspect a driver is under the influence of a controlled substance, has any amount of a Schedule 1 drug in their system, or is visibly impaired, they may arrest that driver. If the prosecution proves the alleged drug intoxication offense, the court will typically punish a first offense with up to 360 hours of community service, a maximum of 93 days in jail, and a fine between $100 and $500.

However, prior convictions of DUI offenses could increase penalties. If the driver was convicted of one intoxicated driving offense within the previous seven years, the penalties increase to a prison sentence of up to one year. The court can also order the driver to complete up 90 days of community service and pay a fine ranging from $200 to $1,000.

If the driver had two or more prior convictions in total, regardless of when they occurred, the court will charge the alleged offender with a felony. On conviction, a judge may order the convicted individual pay at least $500, with a maximum potential fine of $5,000. The court may also send the driver to jail for up to one year, with a minimum of 30 days, and 60 to 180 days of community service.

If the police have accused you of driving while under the influence of a drug, you may be at risk of a DUI drug conviction. Even a first-time offense could affect your freedom, your life, and create a permanent record. A knowledgeable Oakland county DUI drug lawyer could help you develop a strong defense strategy. Allowing an aggressive defense attorney to assist you may make all the difference in protecting your rights. Do not hesitate to reach out for advice and to schedule a review of your criminal case today.