When considering the crime of impaired driving, most people think of the use of alcohol. However, a conviction is also possible when a person is under the influence of a controlled substance.
If you have been charged with this offense, a Denver drug DUI lawyer may be able to help. The right attorney could investigate your arrest, review the state’s evidence, and identify the best possible strategy for fighting against these charges. Let our dedicated DUI defense lawyer advocate for you.
The challenge for prosecutors in drug DUI cases is that blood, breath, or urine test results will not always provide definitive answers as they relate to someone’s alleged impairment. The police are not always equipped to perform these tests, and some drugs will not show up in the results, even while they continue to impact a person’s capabilities.
The result is often a prosecution built on assumptions, which can lead to charges against a person who is not under the influence of anything at all. A Denver attorney could help fight a drug DUI charge based on the speculative nature of the case.
Many substances can lead to an arrest and conviction for DUI drugs. It is a common misconception that these charges only involve illegal narcotics, but that is not the case. A person could face arrest if they are impaired by over-the-counter medication or even prescribed drugs. Some examples include:
Having a valid prescription is not a defense against this crime. While a doctor might authorize the use of certain medication, that does not mean it is safe to drive while using it.
However, there are options for fighting back against these charges. Often, the state will rely on weak evidence to suggest a person was impaired while they were behind the wheel. A seasoned attorney in Denver could assist with highlighting the weakness of that drug DUI evidence.
There are many available defense strategies, depending on the facts in a given case. One of the best options involves challenging the traffic stop that led to the arrest. The police do not have unlimited powers to pull over drivers. If they lacked reasonable suspicion that a traffic offense or other crime was committed, the stop was illegal, and any evidence collected could be thrown out at trial.
A Denver attorney might also challenge the evidence of drug impairment. Usually, the state relies on subjective details like poor driving or suspicions of intoxication by the arresting officer. This evidence might not be enough for the state to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
If you have been arrested under suspicion of impaired driving, now is the time to speak to an attorney. You have the chance to beat these charges, but a strong defense is crucial for a positive outcome. Contact a Denver drug DUI lawyer today to learn more.