A major update to the "Driving with a Measurable Controlled Substance" (or metabolite DUI) law has relaxed Utah's previous "zero tolerance" towards marijuana DUI charges. Previously, drivers could be convicted of driving under the influence if marijuana metabolites were found in their system. Many opponents pointed out the flawed logic of this law - metabolites can remain in an individual's system weeks or months after drug consumption. Under this law, therefore, completely sober and innocent individuals could be charged with a DUI. This includes individuals that consumed marijuana in legal states and those who used marijuana with a medical prescription.
After much debate, the law has been updated to reflect a more fair system. Drivers accused of a DUI can no longer be convicted on the basis of an inactive metabolite in their system.
Utah is a state that is non-tolerant of recreational marijuana usage, yet many surrounding states have legalized recreational marijuana. You may have legally used marijuana in one of these neighboring states days or weeks previous. If pulled over while driving or stopped at a DUI checkpoint, the officers at the scene may have charged you with a metabolite DUI. This is unfair, as you were sober at the moment you were driving and within your rights to use marijuana in a state where recreational marijuana is legal.
Laws regarding drug metabolite DUIs are not as cut and dry as alcohol DUIs, especially laws that have been amended. It may be that the officer or prosecutor involved in your case is unaware of the recent changes to the "Driving with a Measurable Controlled Substance" law which may lead to you being charged unfairly. In order to build a strong defense, you need strong representation from a knowledgeable marijuana criminal defense attorney.
The Utah metabolite law is confusing and, oftentimes, citizens that are unprepared do not get the best outcome when facing cannabis charges. Branson West is an expert Utah lawyer who has handled hundreds of cannabis charges and metabolite DUI charges. As a top lawyer, he stays informed of changing laws and is always the first prepared to build an expert defense. Branson West will inform you of your rights, explain the Utah metabolite laws to you in basic language and prepare you with an expert defense.
Contact us today for a free consultation on your metabolite DUI case in Utah. Branson West Law is the expert marijuana criminal defense attorney you can rely on.
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Whether under the influence of drugs or alcohol, Utah takes DUI charges very seriously. While updates to the metabolite DUI law allow for better resolution, the state of Utah still considers driving under the influence of drugs a serious crime. Drivers caught with possession of marijuana or paraphernalia will automatically lose their license for six months. Other circumstances, such as being obviously intoxicated, can further complicate a DUI case.
Whether you were wrongfully accused under the metabolite clause or caught driving while in possession of marijuana and/or paraphernalia, a positive outcome depends on a strong defense.
Branson West is a proponent of fair justice, and he promises to build a strong defense for his clients. Don't throw your future away - start fighting your case today with the best marijuana DUI lawyer in Utah. Call 801-285-5550 today for a free Utah metabolite defense consultation.