Montgomery County Drug DUI Defense Lawyer

Driving under the influence of drugs (DUI) poses significant legal challenges for individuals accused of such offenses. Unlike alcohol-related DUIs, where evidence like breathalyzer results are more straightforward, drug DUIs often involve complex factors such as blood tests and subjective evaluations. Pennsylvania law prohibits operating a vehicle with any amount of a controlled substance in the blood, making even small traces a potential legal issue. If you are facing a drug DUI charge, understanding the laws and your rights is essential. This remains the case even where the driver has a marijuana card.

At Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C., we understand how overwhelming it can be to face these accusations. Our firm has decades of experience helping individuals in Pennsylvania navigate the complexities of DUI charges, including those involving drugs. With a dedicated team, we aim to provide clarity and strong legal representation to help protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case.

Understanding Pennsylvania’s Drug DUI Laws

Pennsylvania law defines drug DUIs broadly, prohibiting individuals from driving while impaired by illegal drugs, prescription medications, or even over-the-counter drugs that impact driving ability. The law uses a zero-tolerance approach, meaning the presence of any controlled substance in the blood may lead to a DUI charge. This differs significantly from alcohol-related DUIs, where specific blood alcohol content thresholds are established.

Evidence in drug DUI cases often includes blood or urine tests conducted after a traffic stop. However, these tests are not always reliable. Some substances remain detectable in the bloodstream long after their impairing effects have subsided. For example, marijuana metabolites can be present in urine for weeks, or blood for up to 12 hours, leading to potential charges even when the driver was not impaired at the time of the stop.

Pennsylvania also penalizes individuals who refuse chemical testing during a DUI investigation. This refusal can result in an automatic suspension of driving privileges under the state’s implied consent laws. Understanding these nuances is crucial for building a defense strategy, as it may be possible to challenge the validity of the evidence or the procedures used during the arrest.

Building a Strong Drug DUI Defense

Defending against a drug DUI charge requires careful examination of the evidence and the circumstances surrounding the arrest. One common defense strategy is questioning the reliability and accuracy of chemical tests. Laboratories may mishandle samples, or testing equipment may yield false positives. Highlighting these issues can weaken the prosecution’s case.

Another important consideration is whether law enforcement officers followed proper protocols during the traffic stop and arrest. Officers must have reasonable suspicion to initiate a traffic stop and probable cause to conduct a DUI investigation. Violations of these procedural requirements may result in the suppression of evidence, which could lead to a dismissal of the charges.

Legal defenses may also include presenting alternative explanations for the observed impairment or the presence of substances in the blood. For instance, prescription medications taken as directed should not automatically result in a DUI conviction. Your attorney can present evidence, such as medical records or expert testimony, to demonstrate compliance with prescribed treatments.

The Consequences of a Drug DUI Conviction

A drug DUI conviction in Pennsylvania carries severe consequences that can impact multiple aspects of your life. Penalties include fines, mandatory license suspension, and even jail time. The severity of these penalties often depends on factors such as prior DUI offenses, the specific substances involved, and whether the incident caused harm to others.

Beyond legal penalties, a conviction may also lead to long-term consequences like increased insurance premiums, difficulty obtaining certain jobs, and damage to personal relationships. Additionally, Pennsylvania requires individuals convicted of a DUI to complete drug and alcohol education programs, which can be both time-consuming and costly.

Understanding the full scope of these consequences underscores the importance of mounting a strong defense. By working with a qualified attorney, you can explore options such as negotiating reduced charges, entering diversion programs, or seeking alternative sentencing to minimize the impact on your life.

Why Choose Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C. for Your Drug DUI Case?

At Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C., we understand the complexities of drug DUI cases and the significant impact they can have on your life. With over 65 years of experience serving individuals in Pennsylvania, we have the knowledge and resources to handle even the most challenging cases. Our firm has earned recognition as a “Best Law Firm” by U.S. News & World Report and consists of a dedicated team committed to protecting your rights.

We offer personalized attention and strategic legal representation tailored to your unique circumstances. From challenging the evidence to negotiating with prosecutors, we aim to provide the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us today at (215) 822-7575 or through our contact form to discuss your legal needs.