Understanding the Criminal Justice System
According to a 2012 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, more than 10 million people aged 12 or older reported driving under the influence of illicit drugs. Driving while high on marijuana impacts a driver’s attentiveness and ability to accurately judge time and speed. When marijuana use is combined with alcohol, driving capacity decreases significantly.
Under Indiana law, it is a crime to drive a vehicle while under the influence of marijuana or other drugs, alcohol, or a combination of drugs and alcohol. Any detectable level of marijuana in a driver’s blood or urine, including metabolites, is sufficient to show that a driver was under the influence while in physical control of a vehicle. It is important to note that it does not matter whether you were “high” or “impaired” at the time; if it’s found in your system – and the THC in pot stays in your system a lot longer than alcohol — you are “under the influence.”
Indiana law enforcement takes a harsh stance against driving under the influence and punishes violators of the state’s DUI/OWI laws. The penalties for driving under the influence of marijuana are the same as those for drunk driving in Indiana:
Violations are a class C misdemeanor, punishable by up to 60 days in jail, a fine of up to $500 and probation for up to two years. The judge may also order up to two years suspension of your driver’s license, the installation of an ignition interlock device, up to 180 hours of community service, substance abuse education and regular urine testing.
Violations are a class D felony, punishable by imprisonment of five days to three years, a fine of up to $10,000 and probation for up to two years. The court may also order up to two years suspension of your driver’s license, the installation of an ignition interlock device, up to 180 hours of community service, substance abuse education and regular urine testing.
Violations are a class D felony, punishable by up to three years imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000, probation for up to two years and license suspension for up to ten years. The judge may also order the installation of an ignition interlock device, up to 180 hours of community service, substance abuse education and regular urine testing.
For four or more DUI/OWI offenses, DUI/OWIs in which a minor was in the car, or DUI/OWIs causing injury or death, additional penalties apply.
Attorney John Razumich represents clients in defending the full range of criminal charges, including DUI/OWI offenses. If you have been charged with driving with marijuana in your system, Mr. Razumich will fight for you every step of the way to minimize the impact of the charges on your driving record and criminal record and allow you to move forward with your life.
This website has been prepared by John Razumich, Attorney at Law for informational purposes only and does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. The information is not provided in the course of an attorney-client relationship and is not intended to substitute for legal advice from an attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
