Drug DUI Lawyer in Huntsville, AL
In Alabama, driving a vehicle under the influence of a controlled substance is a criminal offense. The state treats this crime just like drunk driving and pursues similar criminal penalties. If you are convicted of driving under the influence (DUI), you could be sentenced to jail and have to pay hefty fines. Convictions also result in license suspensions and the required use of interlock ignition devices (IID).
Have you been arrested for driving under the influence of drugs? Contact Ward Law. We have the answers to your pressing questions and can provide the guidance and advocacy you need as you move through the criminal process. Our Huntsville drug DUI attorney, Frank Ward, has represented individuals in cases like yours for 15+ years. With his experience, focus on DUI law, and drive to do what is best for clients, you can turn to him confidently.
Call (256) 578-7729 today or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
The Penalties for Driving Under the Influence of Drugs in Alabama
A conviction for driving under the influence of drugs will generally result in penalties similar to those for drunk driving.
The penalties for a first offense include:
- Fines between $600 and $2,100
- Up to a year of imprisonment
- A 90-day license suspension
The penalties for a second offense include:
- Fines between $1,100 and $5,100
- Up to a year of imprisonment
- A year-long license suspension
The penalties for a third offense include:
- Fines between $2,100 and $10,100
- Up to a year of imprisonment
- A three-year-long license suspension
A fourth conviction for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs within ten years is a felony offense. Also, if you have ever been convicted of a felony DUI, no matter how old, a new DUI charge will be treated as a felony. The penalties for felony DUI include fines between $4,100 and $10,100, anywhere from one to ten years of imprisonment, and a five-year license suspension.
Is It Illegal to Drive Under the Influence of Prescription Drugs?
In short, yes. Driving under the influence of any drug is illegal. This includes all kinds of prescription drugs, in addition to other controlled substances like marijuana, heroin, cocaine, and more.
Possible Defenses Against Drugged Driving Charges
Even though you may have been charged with a drug DUI, you should not despair. Our attorney can pursue many defenses to secure a lesser sentence, reduce your charges, or persuade a judge to drop your case altogether.
Potential arguments he can make include:
- The arresting officer did not have probable cause to stop you for DUI
- The validity of a drug test or evidence the officer collected is questionable
- The prosecution’s evidence is insufficient to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were driving while impaired by drugs
- The prosecution’s evidence is inadmissible in court
- A potential sentence is too harsh, and you would be better suited to receive a lesser punishment or participate in a drug addiction program
Why Choose Ward Law?
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ExperiencedAttorney Ward has represented clients throughout North Alabama for more than 15 years and tried cases in many courts. He has even co-authored a book for other attorneys on Alabama DUI defense.
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FocusedMr. Ward endeavors to never lose focus on the needs of his clients, and to do his utmost to achieve their goals. Let him focus on your needs and get you results.
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DrivenThe practice of law is not just a job for him; it is his passion. He is driven to strive for the best possible outcome he can for each of his clients, and he wants to put that drive to work for you.
Arrested for Drug DUI? Call Ward Law.
At Ward Law, we are prepared to fight for your rights and freedoms. After an arrest, turn to our drug DUI lawyer in Huntsville for the defense you deserve. Learn more about our firm and what our attorney can offer in a free consultation.
Call us 24/7 at (256) 578-7729 or get in touch via our online contact form.