Cannabis DUI Laws in Georgia – Understanding the Risks of Driving High

Facing a DUI charge, especially one involving cannabis, can be overwhelming and confusing. If you’re feeling uncertain about your rights or the consequences of your situation, you’re not alone. It’s completely normal to have worries about how a cannabis-related DUI could affect your life, job, and reputation. At our firm, we understand the anxiety that comes with these charges, and we’re here to help you navigate through this difficult time. We aim to provide you with clear, honest, and reliable guidance so you can make the best decisions for your future.

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What Does a Cannabis DUI Mean in Georgia?

In Georgia, driving under the influence of cannabis (or marijuana) is taken very seriously. While cannabis has become legal for medicinal use in many states, in Georgia, it remains illegal for recreational use. This means if you are caught driving under the influence of cannabis, you can be charged with a DUI. The law in Georgia doesn’t specifically focus on a set number of nanograms of THC (the active component in cannabis) in your bloodstream, unlike alcohol. Instead, the law focuses on whether or not a person’s driving ability is impaired due to drug use.

Even if you’re a medical marijuana patient with a valid prescription, it’s important to note that driving while impaired can still lead to legal consequences. In the eyes of the law, if cannabis use affects your ability to drive safely, you could be charged with a DUI.

How Does Cannabis Affect Your Ability to Drive?

Cannabis can have a range of effects on a person’s body and mind. While some people may not feel impaired, others may experience a drop in reaction time, difficulty concentrating, or altered perception. These effects can make it dangerous to operate a vehicle. Even a small amount of cannabis in your system could impact your driving skills, putting you at risk for an accident.

It’s important to understand that law enforcement officers are trained to look for signs of impairment, including erratic driving behaviors, slow response times, or the smell of cannabis. If an officer believes you are under the influence of cannabis, they will likely conduct a field sobriety test, which could involve asking you to perform certain physical tasks to test your coordination and balance.

Greg Willis has been successful at defending DUI cases (over 93% without a conviction)

He's the only lawyer in the State of Georgia to ever be recognized for all three of these accomplishments.

Received the Samurai Lawyer Award for having gone to jail for a total of 4 days in order to save his own client

Received the BadAss Lawyer Award for the biggest impact of all DUI lawyers in DUI defense in the country

Received the vote of Georgia Lawyers as a Superlawyer in DUI Law for 10 straight consecutive years

 

What Happens When You Are Pulled Over for Suspected Cannabis DUI?

If you’re pulled over by a police officer in Georgia and they suspect that you are driving under the influence of cannabis, they may ask you to submit to a roadside sobriety test. If you fail the test or refuse to take it, they can arrest you on suspicion of DUI. After an arrest, you may be required to take a blood or urine test to determine the presence of THC in your system.

In Georgia, refusing to take a blood, breath, or urine test can result in severe consequences, including an automatic license suspension. Even if you refuse, you can still be charged with a DUI based on the officer’s observations and the results of any tests they have conducted. If you do take a test and THC is found in your system, it could be used as evidence against you in court.

Greg has truly mastered his craft. His preparation is second to none and his confidence helps reduce the nervousness and anxiety his clients face. He is a real life version of Harvey Specter and I highly recommend him.”

- Travis

Greg and his team are absolutely incredible. Greg explained everything to me in detail, as this is the first ever time I have been arrested. Regular updates throughout the process which allowed me to get on with everyday life. 200% I would recommend Greg and his team to anyone with a DUI case."

- James Hellens

Mr Willis is the best in the business. He knows the law inside and out. I was in a serious jam and Greg got my dui reduced to a reckless driving. This man will fight for you every step of the way."

- Anonymous

Consequences of a Cannabis DUI Conviction

The penalties for a cannabis-related DUI in Georgia can be severe. If you are convicted, you could face fines, mandatory drug education programs, license suspension, and possibly even jail time. In addition to the immediate legal consequences, a DUI conviction can also affect your future job prospects, insurance rates, and personal reputation.

First-time offenders might face less severe penalties, but repeat offenders or those with a history of substance abuse could face harsher consequences. It’s important to remember that a DUI conviction is a criminal charge and could have long-lasting effects on your life.

How Can an Attorney Help with Your Cannabis DUI Case?

If you are facing a cannabis-related DUI charge in Georgia, it is essential to have an experienced attorney by your side. An attorney can help you understand your rights, explain the legal process, and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.

In many situations, there may be ways to challenge the evidence against you or negotiate a reduced sentence. For example, your lawyer may argue that the officer did not have probable cause to pull you over or that the sobriety tests were not conducted properly. Additionally, your attorney can help you understand Georgia’s DUI laws and advise you on the best course of action moving forward.

At our firm, we are committed to providing personalized legal assistance to those facing cannabis DUI charges. We understand the unique challenges of these cases and work hard to ensure that your rights are protected every step of the way. If you find yourself facing a cannabis DUI charge, having a knowledgeable attorney can make all the difference in achieving a favorable outcome.

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Can You Fight a Cannabis DUI in Georgia?

Yes, you can fight a cannabis DUI charge in Georgia. In fact, it is highly recommended that you seek legal counsel if you are facing these charges. Your attorney can help you review the evidence, question the validity of the sobriety tests, and explore any possible defenses you may have. There may be factors in your case that can be used to get the charges reduced or dismissed.

In some instances, there may be technical errors in how the test was conducted, or you may have been subjected to an unlawful traffic stop. A thorough review of the circumstances surrounding your arrest can help determine if there is a basis for challenging the charges against you.

While the law in Georgia is clear about the illegality of driving under the influence of cannabis, it’s also important to remember that the prosecution must prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. This is where a skilled attorney can be your best ally, ensuring that every detail of your case is carefully examined and that your defense is as strong as possible.

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The Importance of Getting Legal Help Early

If you’ve been charged with a cannabis DUI, it’s important to act quickly. The sooner you contact an attorney, the better your chances of building a strong defense. At the very least, a lawyer can help you understand the process and prepare you for what lies ahead.

The legal system can be intimidating, especially when dealing with DUI and drug charges. But with the right help, you can navigate the process more effectively and increase your chances of a favorable outcome. Don’t wait until it’s too late to get the assistance you need.

If you’re facing a cannabis-related DUI charge in Georgia, you need experienced and compassionate legal representation. At our firm, we’re dedicated to fighting for your rights and helping you achieve the best possible result in your case. Don’t face this challenge alone – contact us today to learn how we can assist you in your case.

To learn more about this subject click here: What to Know About Georgia’s Open Container Laws and DUI Penalties