Ocala DUI Drugs Defense Attorneys
Driving under the influence is illegal in Florida. However, when most people think of a DUI, they think of alcohol consumption. However, drugs can also be a reason, and not just illegal ones. While a person can face charges for being impaired by controlled substances, prescription drugs and even over-the-counter medications can also be to blame. Even if you only take the prescribed dose of medication, you can still be charged with a DUI and face serious criminal penalties. If you have been charged with any type of DUI, contact an Ocala DUI drug defense attorney for aggressive representation.
What is Impairment?
In Florida, impairment is determined in two ways:
- If a person’s blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) is over .08.
- If their normal faculties are impaired.
Under state law, “normal faculties” are defined as a person’s ability to do everyday tasks, such as walk, talk, hear, see, talk, make judgments, and perform daily tasks, both mental or physical. There is no standard for determining when mental faculties are impaired. This is subjective and pretty much up to the police officer’s discretion.
Law enforcement officials use primarily chemical testing to charge a person with a DUI. They may also use field sobriety exercises and objective evidence.
Law enforcement also uses DUI testing to measure a person’s blood-alcohol concentration (BAC). Those who have a BAC of .08 or higher are considered intoxicated by Florida law. Since drugs don’t always show up in breath analysis, most officers will use blood or urine testing on drugged drivers. These tests are arguably problematic and are known to give skewed results.
Penalties for DUI Drugs
The penalties for drug-related DUIs are the same as ones for alcohol DUIs. Even for a first-time offense, you could face various forms of punishment, including the following:
- Up to six months in jail
- A fine between $500 and $1,000
- License suspension for up to six months
- Up to 50 hours of community service
- Vehicle impoundment for 10 days
- Requirement to install an ignition interlock device.
Contact an Ocala DUI Drugs Defense Attorney Today
Law enforcement officials are always learning new ways to identify drug impairment. An “expert” may try to pull you over and accuse you of drug impairment.
You need the right legal help on your side. Get solid defense from the criminal defense attorneys from Meldon Law and avoid a conviction. Schedule a consultation with an Ocala DUI drugs attorney by calling (800) 373-3000.
