Redmond Marijuana DUI Lawyer

Redmond Marijuana DUI Attorney

Marijuana’s accessibility through legalization has heightened the number of DUI incidents. A marijuana DUI charge can come with serious consequences. A Redmond marijuana DUI lawyer from Peters Associates, LLC, understands the complexity of DUI cases. We can protect your rights, driving privileges, and future with our experienced DUI lawyer in Redmond.

Marijuana DUI Charges in Washington

In Washington, DUI laws apply to alcohol and drugs, including marijuana. A person can be convicted of a DUI if:

• They’re operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
• They have a THC concentration of five nanograms per milliliter of blood or more.

THC metabolizes differently in each person, and blood tests often fail to reflect the true impairment. This is why marijuana DUI cases can be so complex and require experienced legal representation.

The risk of driving under the influence remains great, which is why these charges are taken so seriously. Since 2014, approximately 704 people have died in crashes where the driver causing the accident tested positive for THC. Most of these drivers were males between the ages of 16 and 25.

The safety concerns aren’t only for others on the road but also for the impaired driver. Those under the influence are also 43% more likely to speed, 30% less likely to wear a seat belt, and 17% more likely to get distracted while driving.

The Complexities of THC Testing

THC can be difficult to measure in a way that correlates with impairment. It is a fat-soluble substance, remaining in the body long after any intoxicating effects have worn off. A regular marijuana user may test above the legal limit, despite not taking any marijuana for several hours or even days.

Some of the problems with THC testing within DUI cases include:

• Variable tolerance: Those who frequently use marijuana develop a tolerance to the drug, which diminishes their impairment.
• Delayed effects: Unlike alcohol, the impaired effects of marijuana take time to appear. This can make it difficult to determine the time of use.
• Unreliable testing: Blood draws need to be performed quickly to most accurately determine THC levels.

At Peters Associates, LLC, we can challenge these unreliable testing methods. Our firm can fight to make sure our clients are not wrongfully convicted of a crime based on a testing flaw.

Penalties for Marijuana DUI in Washington

A marijuana DUI conviction can bring serious consequences and a lasting criminal record. Some of the possible penalties include:

• Jail time
• Hefty fines
• License suspension or revocation
• Court-ordered drug and alcohol evaluation and treatment programs
• Installation of an ignition interlock device
• Probation

If your license is suspended, you have seven days to request a hearing at the Washington State Department of Licensing at 7225 170th Ave. NE in Redmond, WA.

If this is not your first offense or there were aggravating factors, like excessive speed, the penalties are much more severe. A criminal record also impacts your future employment and professional licensure. You can also expect an increase in your insurance rates or a possible denial of coverage in some instances.

How Can Peters Associates, LLC, Help?

At Peters Associates, LLC, we provide aggressive and thorough representation for individuals charged with marijuana DUI. We tailor our defense strategies to each unique case and the facts surrounding the charge.

Some defense tactics we may employ include:

• Challenging traffic stops: If the police lacked reasonable suspicion to pull you over, we may choose to file a motion to suppress evidence, which could result in the case dismissal.
• Disputing the officer’s observations: Police often cite drowsiness, bloodshot eyes, or slow responses as signs of marijuana impairment. We can challenge subjective observations and demonstrate other possible causes.
• Questioning THC blood tests: We can analyze when the test was taken, the chain of custody, and the lab’s testing methods. THC blood tests do not always accurately depict marijuana use or impairment.
• Negotiating with prosecutors: If dismissal is not an option, we can work with prosecutors to reduce charges and negotiate for alternative sentencing options, such as deferred prosecution, reduced penalties, and treatment-based resolutions.

FAQs About Redmond, WA Marijuana DUI Law

What Is the Most Likely Outcome for a First-Time DUI?

For first-time DUI offenders, the most common outcomes generally include paying fines, probation, license suspension, and completing alcohol education classes. You may be required to serve a short jail sentence or engage in community service. However, many first-time offenders avoid jail time by making plea deals or completing diversion programs.

Can a Blood Test Detect Marijuana for a DUI?

Yes, a blood test can detect marijuana usage for DUI purposes by measuring the level of THC in the bloodstream. In Washington, drivers can be charged with DUI if their THC concentration is elevated. Unlike alcohol, THC levels don’t always correlate directly with impairment since THC can remain in the bloodstream for many hours or days after it enters the body.

How Much Do Most Lawyers Charge for a DUI?

The cost of hiring a lawyer for a marijuana DUI charge varies. In some situations, the attorney may request a flat fee, particularly for non-violent, first-time offenders with simple charges. However, for more complex cases with more severe charges, the cost can increase. Other factors that influence fees include the location and the attorney’s experience with handling marijuana DUI charges.

How Long Does Marijuana Stay in Your System for DUI?

Marijuana can stay in your system for a while, but it varies based on the usage frequency, your body composition, and your metabolism. Blood tests administered by law enforcement are meant to detect active THC. Detection, however, does not always indicate impairment. This is why having a skilled DUI marijuana attorney on your side is crucial when preparing your defense.

Contact a Redmond Marijuana DUI Lawyer

A marijuana DUI charge requires skilled legal support. Even though recreational cannabis use is legal in the state, operating a vehicle under the influence remains a serious criminal offense.

At Peters Associates, LLC, we understand the nuances of THC-related DUI cases, including the complexity of field sobriety tests and toxicology reports. Our defense team works to question flawed procedures and unreliable evidence. We can safeguard your rights, driving privileges, and future.

Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation so we can determine your legal options.