Marijuana DUI Lawyer in Toronto

Our Law Firm Can Help in Your Fight Against Crown Charges

When cannabis was legalized throughout Canada, big changes happened overnight. Many of these changes were in regard to driving laws. While someone may be able to enjoy marijuana in their free time, the law does not allow for driving under the influence of the drug. However, testing for cannabis impairment is far less scientific than testing for alcohol. This simple fact may prove integral to having charges dropped — especially with the right marijuana DUI lawyer in Toronto on your side.

At AR Law, our law firm is committed to helping our clients secure the best possible legal outcomes. When charged with driving under the influence of cannabis, this could mean having charges dropped altogether due to faulty testing procedures. In other instances, it may mean avoiding the stiffest penalties. Contact us today to discuss your options. There are various defences against these charges, and you can learn more during a free consultation.

What Is a Charge of Marijuana DUI?

When people think of driving under the influence, the first thing that comes to mind is typically alcohol intoxication. However, Canadian law treats driving under the influence of marijuana as an equally serious criminal offence. Even if you’re more capable of maintaining control than most, impaired driving linked to cannabis use can still result in a criminal record.

Of course, marijuana DUI laws are a bit newer than those related to alcohol. This has created a drive towards developing roadside chemical tests similar to the breathalyzer, but the science has proven flimsy at best. In most cases, police rely on an initial physical conditioning test to support a charge of cannabis impaired driving. If an officer believes you’re under the influence of marijuana, you will likely be charged with a DUI. At that point, your future could be uncertain.

If you agree to a plea with the Crown Attorney, there are minimum mandatory penalties you’ll face. This is true even if it’s your first conviction. Unfortunately, this could include jail time. Even in a best-case scenario, you could face serious fines along with losing your right to drive a motor vehicle. Remember, you can always take a plea deal if necessary — but why immediately resign yourself to a future of increased insurance, high fines, and other difficulties? Speak with a Toronto marijuana DUI lawyer today to learn your options.

What Are the Penalties for Marijuana DUI in Toronto?

If you’re convicted of driving under the influence of marijuana, there are various penalties you may be exposed to. If the evidence shows that you have a certain amount of THC in your system within two hours of driving, you could face a quick summary conviction that results in fines of up to $1,000. However, the Crown Attorney may also opt for an indictment. Even for your first criminal offence, this could result in the following penalties:

Jail time
Mandatory fines
Mandatory probation
Restriction of driving rights
Immigration issues
Increased penalties for aggravating factors

Additionally, there are various consequences that may occur outside the court. For instance, you could see your car insurance rates increase dramatically, and you may experience career difficulties due to a criminal record. This is why you should consider speaking with a marijuana DUI lawyer in Toronto before making any major decisions. Driving under the influence of drugs is never a wise move, but you’re entitled to a dedicated defence just like anyone else.

How Can You Beat Toronto Marijuana Impaired Driving Charges?

Individuals charged with impaired driving often accept a summary conviction and simply move on with their lives. This is particularly the case when the Crown Attorney promises leniency. This decision is often driven by the idea that there’s no solid defence against driving after marijuana use. While pleading guilty may be in your best interest — particularly if a marijuana DUI lawyer in Toronto can get you a fair deal — it’s important to remember that there are legitimate defences against these charges.

Such defences include — but are not limited to:

Technical issues during the Standardized Field Sobriety Test
Illegal arrest
Breach of right to counsel
No intent to drive
Language and translation issues

Driving under the influence of marijuana is a serious charge, and that’s why you should take your defence seriously. Even if the biggest charge you’re facing is a refusal to conduct a sobriety test, the penalties could potentially alter your life. Since you can speak with a Toronto DUI lawyer during a free consultation AR Law, there’s nothing to lose from learning more about your rights. Even if the evidence doesn’t support charge dismissal, it’s possible to secure a more beneficial outcome.

Contact a Marijuana DUI Lawyer in Toronto Today

Facing a charge of impaired driving — regardless of the underlying inebriant — is a stressful experience. However, things can become much more worrisome due to the inexact science related to marijuana DUI charges. There are worries that roadside THC saliva tests may return false positives, and most of the evidence used against defendants is related to field tests that are oftentimes arbitrary. Don’t let a charge of impaired driving wreck your future. Seek legal help today.

At AR Law, we understand that the consequences of marijuana DUI are strict. Even a first offence can carry harsh penalties, but the Crown Attorney may assure you that they’re offering a fair plea deal. In reality, they want to move you through the criminal system as quickly as possible. Don’t fall for this. Contact us today by calling (647) 503-5251 to schedule a free case evaluation. A marijuana DUI lawyer in Toronto can help you decide the best way of moving forward.