Possible Penalties for Stoned Driving
5 years ago by Justin M. Schiks
Stoned driving in Woodbury falls under the umbrella of drugged driving or driving while impaired – sometimes referred to as DWI offense, Minnesota prohibits individuals from operating a motor vehicle while they are under the influence of drugs and other harmful or hazardous substances. The reason for these laws is extremely simple: to prevent motor vehicle accidents and other harmful consequences from occurring.
If you are convicted of a DWI offense, you will likely be facing some serious penalties, including possible jail time. Consequently, you want the best possible legal representation in your corner when the time comes to go to a hearing or trial.
The Woodbury criminal defense lawyers at JS Defense, PA. understand the seriousness of a DWI charge and the potential penalties upon conviction. Let our legal team provide you with insightful, result-oriented legal representation to help you achieve the best possible result in your case.
What is “Stoned” or Drugged Driving?
A motor vehicle operator could be charged with and convicted of a drug DWI if he or she drives or physically controls a vehicle in the following circumstances:
- While the accused is determined to be under the influence of a controlled substance
- While the accused is knowingly and intentionally under the influence of a substance which is considered hazardous and which significantly impairs a person’s ability to operate a vehicle – or which substantially affects the user’s body
- While the accused is found to have a Schedule I or Schedule II controlled substance of any amount in his or her body
When it comes to DWI cases that involve drugs, the act of being “under the influence” is very specific. In order to be “under the influence,” the driver must not “possess the clearness of control and intellect” that he or she would have had under normal circumstances.
What are the Penalties for a DWI?
The potential penalties for a DWI that involves drugged driving are the same as those that apply to drunk driving in the State. In addition to administrative penalties (including potential driver’s license revocation for a maximum of 90 days), the first offense in ten years could result in up to 90 days in jail, along with a monetary fine of $1,000.
These penalties are subject to increase if the accused is found guilty and convicted of a second, third, or subsequent DWI offense. For example, a second DWI conviction in ten years (which is a gross misdemeanor) could result in up to one year of incarceration, along with a $3,000 fine. At the very least, a sentencing judge is required to issue a 30-day sentence (i.e., community service and/or jail time) in these cases.
Talk to an Experienced Woodbury Criminal Defense Lawyer
The experienced attorneys at JS Defense, PA. will do everything possible to minimize the penalties of a drugged driving conviction. To schedule a free consultation or case evaluation with a knowledgeable Woodbury criminal defense lawyer, please give us a call today at (651) 968-9652 or contact us online.
