Phoenix Drug DUI Attorney 

Experienced Representation for Drug-Related DUI Charges in Scottsdale & Throughout Arizona

Driving under the influence of drugs (Drug DUI) is a serious crime in Arizona. Unlike alcohol-related DUIs, a Drug DUI involves impairment caused by controlled substances, whether they're prescription medications, cannabis, or illicit drugs. Arizona's strict driving laws mean it’s possible to face charges even if you weren’t aware that the drugs in your system could impair your ability to drive.

If you’ve been charged with a drug DUI in Phoenix, it’s essential to have an attorney who can analyze the specifics of your case, including the type of drug involved and the circumstances of your arrest. At The Koplow Law Firm, I use my knowledge of forensic evidence and over two decades of experience to challenge evidence and protect my client's rights.

Call (602) 560-7837 today to discuss your case with our skilled drug DUI attorney in Phoenix. Virtual consultations are available.

Types of Drug DUIs in Arizona

Drug DUIs are not limited to illicit drug use. Arizona law is broad and encompasses various situations where drugs might impair your driving. Understanding the types of Drug DUIs can help you better grasp the specific accusations you are facing. 

Here are some common categories of Drug DUIs:

• Prescription drug DUI – Even medications prescribed by a licensed doctor can lead to a DUI charge if they impair your ability to drive safely. Common examples include painkillers, anxiety medications, and sedatives.
• Marijuana DUI – With the legalization of recreational and medical marijuana in Arizona, DUIs for cannabis impairment have become more frequent. Even if you’re legally allowed to use marijuana, it’s illegal to operate a vehicle while impaired.
• Illegal drug DUI – DUIs involving controlled substances such as cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, or other illicit drugs carry severe penalties and heightened scrutiny under Arizona law.
• Drug metabolites – Arizona law allows for charges based on the detection of drug metabolites in your system. This means even if you are no longer impaired, trace amounts of a drug's residue could still result in prosecution.

Each type of Drug DUI brings its own complexities, and understanding the details of your case is crucial to building an effective defense.

Penalties for a Drug DUI Conviction in Arizona

Drug DUIs in Arizona carry serious penalties, which grow more severe with repeat offenses or aggravating circumstances. 

Some of the consequences you could face include:

First-offense penalties

• Mandatory jail time (typically at least 10 days, though this can vary)
• Fines and surcharges exceeding $1,000
• License suspension for up to 90 days
• Substance abuse counseling or treatment programs

Second or subsequent offense penalties

• Increased jail time and fines
• Longer license suspension or revocation
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID) requirements on your vehicle
• Harsher penalties if the Drug DUI occurred in combination with a DUI for alcohol or other aggravating circumstances

Additional consequences

• Criminal record that can impact future employment, housing, or education opportunities
• Higher insurance premiums for years to come

Arizona’s DUI penalties are some of the toughest in the country. A skilled attorney can help mitigate the consequences and make sure your case is handled effectively.

Potential Defenses for Drug DUI Charges in AZ

A strong legal defense can significantly affect the outcome of a Drug DUI case. I carefully investigate every aspect of the charges against you to identify errors and weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. 

Some potential defenses include:

• No impairment established – Arizona law requires proof of impairment. Just having a substance in your system doesn’t always mean you were unable to drive safely.
• Unreliable tests – Blood, urine, or chemical tests used to detect drugs can sometimes yield false results or be mishandled by law enforcement.
• Improper traffic stop – If the officer had no valid reason to pull you over, your charges could be challenged on constitutional grounds.
• Medical necessity – For prescription or medical marijuana users, a defense could argue proper use under the law while challenging the impairment claim.
• Errors in law enforcement procedure – Any mishandling during the arrest or testing process could result in evidence being excluded from your case.

By carefully analyzing the evidence and applying creative legal strategies, I work to protect my client's rights and secure the best possible outcome.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Defense Strategy

When facing drug-related DUI charges, the choice of defense strategy can significantly impact the outcome of your case. At The Koplow Law Firm, we understand that every situation is unique, and we take the time to develop a personalized defense that aligns with your specific circumstances. Our experienced attorneys will meticulously analyze the details of your case, considering factors such as the legality of the traffic stop, the reliability of the drug testing methods used, and any potential violations of your rights.

Some effective defense strategies may include:

• Challenging the legality of the stop: If law enforcement did not have probable cause to pull you over, we may be able to have the evidence against you dismissed.
• Questioning the accuracy of drug tests: Many drug tests can yield false positives or be improperly administered, which can be a critical point in your defense.
• Proving lack of impairment: We can present evidence to demonstrate that you were not impaired at the time of driving, even if drugs were present in your system.
• Exploring diversion programs: In some cases, we may be able to negotiate a plea deal or enroll you in a diversion program to avoid a conviction.

Our goal is to provide you with the best possible outcome while protecting your rights throughout the legal process. 

Don't leave your future to chance—contact The Koplow Law Firm today to discuss your case with our Phoenix drug DUI attorney and explore your defense options.