DUI with Marijuana? We can help.
Though the laws surrounding the possession of marijuana are changing, driving under the influence of any controlled or illegal substance still carries harsh penalties.
The penalties for driving under the influence of marijuana are going to rival those of alcohol, that is to say, you’re still going to face the same kind of punishments you would in a more traditional DUI. Though there will be significant differences in your case, the harsh reality is the same.
Marijuana Possession in Maryland
In 2014, the possession of 10 grams of marijuana or less was decriminalized in the state of Maryland. If you are caught with 10 grams of marijuana or less in Maryland, and you are not part of the medical marijuana program, you will face a $100 fine for your first offense.
The crime is considered a civil offense and carries no jail time. However, larger amounts of the drug in your possession or the intent to distribute, are still criminal offenses are are punished accordingly.
That being said, driving under the influence of marijuana is different. You will be treated as if you are driving under the influence of alcohol even though this is a non-alcohol related DUI offense. You may lose your license, owe fines, and possibly be sent to jail. So, needless to say, if you find yourself in this situation, you need to contact a Maryland marijuana DUI attorney.
The Big Difference Between an Alcohol DUI and a Marijuana DUI
The biggest difference when it comes to handling a DUI for marijuana is at the arrest. The police officer who stopped you will have to prove you were under the influence of marijuana at the time of your arrest.
This is because, as of August 2018, there is no definitive test to determine whether or not a person is under the influence of marijuana at that exact moment. This is why it’s even more important to have a qualified Maryland DUI attorney on your side to protect you.
Why Work With Albers & Associates
We know the intimate details of handling marijuana DUI cases in Towson, Westminster, Columbia, and other regions of Maryland. Contact Albers & Associates today for a free consultation.
