Experienced Raleigh Lawyers for Driving Under the Influence of Drugs
If you have been charged with Driving Under the Influence of Drugs (DUID), you may be facing severe penalties. North Carolina has no separate charge for Driving Under the Influence of Drugs (DUID). Drug-impaired driving falls under the same statute as driving while impaired (DWI), which prohibits operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of an impairing substance, regardless of whether it is alcohol, illegal drugs, prescription medication, or a combination of substances.
Sandman, Finn & Fitzhugh has a depth of experience representing clients who have been charged with DUID. We understand the complexities each case entails and take a personalized approach to provide the best defense possible. We explore the details to construct a defense strategy that addresses the specifics of your case.
Our team of legal experts diligently researches the circumstances surrounding your arrest, including the legality of the traffic stop and the procedures used by law enforcement to determine the impairment at the time of arrest.
Legal Basis and Definition of DUID in North Carolina
Driving under the influence of drugs (DUID), as defined in the N.C. General Statute § 20-138.1 is the act of operating a vehicle while a substance, whether legal or illegal, has impaired your ability to drive safely. The legal basis includes prohibiting driving with faculties impaired by drugs, with definitions of “under the influence” but generally referring to impairment of reflexes, judgment, or coordination.
DUI/DWI Charge
- A DUI/DWI charge is the accusation that a person operated a vehicle while their ability to do so was negatively impacted by alcohol, marijuana, or other substances.
- The terms “DUI” and “DWI” are interchangeable in North Carolina’s legal system.
Factors Influencing the Severity of DUID
Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs, whether prescription or illegal, carries serious consequences that are often comparable to those for alcohol-related DUIs. The specific penalties vary by jurisdiction and can include both criminal and administrative punishments.
- DWI Levels: There are six levels of DWI sentencing in North Carolina, ranging from Aggravated Level One to Level Five.
- Aggravating Factors: These are circumstances that make a DWI offense more serious, such as a high Blood Alcohol Concentration (.15% or above) or a prior DWI conviction within the last seven years.
- Prior Convictions: Repeated DWI offenses, such as three or more in 10 years, can result in a felony charge for Habitual DWI.
Potential Penalties of DUID
Penalties vary significantly based on the level of the DWI and the presence of aggravating factors, but can include:
- License suspension or revocation
- Fines and court costs
- Probation
- Jail or prison sentences
- Mandatory alcohol testing devices or ignition interlock devices
Benefits of Hiring the DWI Lawyers at Sandman, Finn & Fitzhugh
When you hire the DWI attorneys at Sandman, Finn & Fitzhugh, you can expect
- Over 3,000 DWI cases defended: bringing deep experience to every client’s situation
- 1000’s of DWI charges dismissed: attributed to strategic, aggressive defense
- Comprehensive expertise in license-related matters: including limited driving privileges, ignition interlock compliance, and DMV license restoration
- Trial-ready representation: unlike many attorneys who default to guilty pleas, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial when it’s in your best interest
- Former Assistant District Attorney: with firsthand knowledge of how the prosecution builds DWI cases
Contact the Experienced Attorneys at Sandman, Finn and Fitzhugh for a Free Consultation on DUID Charges
If you have been charged with Driving Under the Influence of Drugs Charges, contact our legal team at Sandman, Finn & Fitzhugh. We have over 60 years of combined legal experience with a proven history of success. As your advocate, both in and out of court, we will be with you throughout the complex legal process, keeping you informed, setting realistic expectations, and acting as your ally. Call (919) 845-6688 to speak with a Raleigh DWI Lawyer for a free consultation. Contact us today.