Drug DUI Charges

Basics

Most DUIs in Utah are for being under the influence of alcohol while driving a vehicle. But a person can also be charged with DUI if an officer believes he or she is under the influence of any drug to a degree which makes driving unsafe. This includes any type of drug, including drugs that are otherwise completely legal (such as allergy medicine, cold medicine, or pain medication) and otherwise legal prescription drugs (such as birth control, antibiotics, or sleeping medications). The most common drug DUI charges are for driving while on sleeping medications, cold & flu medications, or pain medications.

These cases are often hard to prove because the government is required to prove that you were under the influence of the drug and the drug contributed to your unsafe driving. Unfortunately, defending these cases is often an uphill battle because once prosecutors file criminal charges, they are reluctant to dismiss DUI cases. An attorney is often needed to refute the evidence and point out the weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

Penalties

The penalties for a drug DUI conviction are typically the same as the penalties for DUI. This will include a possible driver’s license suspension, jail time, fines, treatment, and probation. Occasionally, if a judge believes there are other factors involved, he or she will order other penalties as part of the criminal sentence.

Contact a Dedicated Utah Criminal Defense Attorney

Because drug DUI charges often involve blood tests, eyewitness evidence, field sobriety tests (FSTs), and constitutional issues, it is always a good idea to speak with a lawyer about your case. Attorney Steven K. Burton at Intermountain Legal is a former DUI prosecutor who has handled thousands of cases in Salt Lake City and all of Northern Utah. He uses his experience and knowledge to provide you with the best defense possible. If you choose to hire an attorney or would like a free consultation, contact our experienced criminal defense attorneys.