Lakewood Drug DUI Defense Lawyer
Fierce Advocacy for Clients in Jefferson County & Denver, CO
Facing drug-related DUI charges can be a daunting experience, with the potential for severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. These cases often involve complex legal and scientific issues, from challenging field sobriety tests to disputing other impairment evidence, so you might need the help of a DUID attorney in Lakewood.
Landy Legal has extensive experience in navigating the intricacies of drug DUI defense. We are dedicated to protecting your rights, thoroughly examining the details of your case, and fighting to secure the best possible outcome. When the stakes are high, you can rely on our compassionate and skilled attorney to be a steadfast advocate.
Arrange for a free case assessment with our DUID attorney in Lakewood. Call Landy Legal at (720) 790-7110 or submit our online contact form.
Colorado Drug DUI Charges
A DUID (Driving Under the Influence of Drugs) occurs when operating a motor vehicle with substantial impairment due to the influence of drugs. This includes illegal substances, such as cocaine, methamphetamine, and other unlawful drugs, marijuana, prescription medicines, and over-the-counter medications.
Common sources and factors involved in DUID charges in Colorado include:
- Illegal drugs: Cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, and other controlled substances.
- Marijuana: Both recreational and medical marijuana, which can lead to DUID charges even with a valid prescription if impairment is suspected.
- Prescription medications: Opioids, sleep aids, and anti-anxiety medications may result in charges if they affect your ability to drive safely.
- Over-the-counter drugs: Cold or allergy medications or any other substance that may impair alertness, judgment, or coordination.
- Observed impairment: Behavioral signs or field sobriety test results interpreted by law enforcement or drug recognition experts in Jefferson County and Lakewood.
Any drug that impairs your ability to drive safely can result in a DUID arrest. You can also be arrested for DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired) when affected to the slightest degree by drugs; this includes being affected mentally or physically, such as reducing your judgment, reaction time, or physical control of your vehicle.
Drug DUIs may be charged based on observed impairment by law enforcement, field sobriety tests, and blood test toxicology reports. Unlike with alcohol DUIs, no specific blood level limit for many drugs has been made.
However, for marijuana, Colorado law presumes impairment if a driver has five nanograms or more of THC per milliliter of blood. Even levels below this threshold can result in a drug DUI if the driver is deemed impaired.
In DUID arrests, law enforcement relies heavily on observations, behavioral cues, and, in some cases, specialized drug recognition experts to assess impairment. It is crucial for those facing these charges to work with an experienced attorney who understands the intricacies of drug DUI and DWAI laws to pursue a fair process that protects your rights.
Why Choose Landy Legal?
Strong Defense for DUI & Traffic Violations
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Proven Experience, Trusted LeadershipWith 16 years of experience and a tenure as President of the Colorado Criminal Defense Bar, Josh Landy has earned a reputation for excellence in DUI and traffic defense.
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Focused on Results, Committed to You
We take DUI and traffic cases seriously, working hard to minimize penalties, protect your record, and keep you on the road. Our approach is thorough and strategic, and our track record speaks for itself.
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Client-Focused ApproachLegal trouble can be overwhelming, but we’re here to ease the stress—not add to it. We pride ourselves in being approachable and compassionate, making sure you feel heard, respected, and supported every step of the way.
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Free Consultations AvailableNot sure what to do next? We offer free consultations so you can get honest, straightforward advice before making any decisions.
Drug DUI & DUID Penalties in Lakewood
In a first-offense drug DUI, typical penalties include:
- A license suspension of up to nine months
- Five days up to a year in jail
- Fines of $600 to $1,000
- 48 to 96 hours of public service
- 12 points on your DMV driving record
- Potential drug education classes
A first-offense DWAI involving drugs can carry the following penalties:
- Jail time of two to 180 days
- Fines of $200 to $500
- 24 to 48 public service hours
- Eight points on your DMV driving record
Repeat offenses typically involve steeper penalties.
You could also face additional drug crime violations under Colorado law, such as those involving possession of cocaine, ecstasy, heroin, methamphetamine, and more.
How a DUID Attorney in Lakewood Builds Your Defense
Facing a DUID or drug-related DUI charge in Lakewood puts your freedom, license, and reputation at risk. Building a defense requires a clear understanding of both the scientific and legal issues involved in these cases. At Landy Legal, clients receive personalized attention from our DUID attorneys in Lakewood backed by over 15 years of experience and a thorough knowledge of Colorado’s regulations.
A strong defense often starts with a comprehensive review of the stop, arrest, and testing process, focusing on identifying any law enforcement errors or violations of your rights. Our approach may include questioning the accuracy or handling of blood or urine tests, reviewing the procedures used during field sobriety or drug recognition expert assessments, and looking for inconsistencies in the officer’s report. In Jefferson County and the Lakewood area, even minor procedural errors can affect whether evidence is allowed in court.
- Analyzing stop validity: Reviewing whether the initial traffic stop was lawful and based on reasonable suspicion.
- Evaluating testing protocols: Investigating if blood or chemical samples were properly collected, stored, and analyzed under state guidelines.
- Assessing medical conditions: Considering whether unrelated health issues could explain observed signs of impairment.
- Scrutinizing officer conduct: Looking for inconsistencies in the officer’s observations, documentation, or timeline.
- Understanding local procedures: Applying knowledge of Lakewood and Jefferson County court practices to anticipate challenges in your defense.
Developing a tailored legal strategy with these tactics can make a difference in the outcome of DUID proceedings. Working with a local attorney who knows the details of Lakewood's legal environment can help ensure the best available defense is presented.
Call Landy Legal for Vigorous Legal Help
With over 15 years of experience defending clients against drug-related DUI charges, our firm understands the complexities of these cases and the serious consequences you may face.
From questioning field sobriety tests to challenging toxicology results, we are committed to building a thoughtful defense tailored to your situation. If you have been charged with a drug DUI, let us put our dedication and professionalism to work in protecting your rights, license, and future.
Call (720) 790-7110 or contact us online to discuss your case in a free consultation with our DUID lawyer in Lakewood.