Were you arrested for driving under the influence of marijuana in Albuquerque, NM? call Jones Criminal Defense Attorneys at (505) 248-1400 for a free consultation.
A conviction for a marijuana-related DWI can have lasting consequences. However, know that you may still have time to defend yourself with help from our Albuquerque marijuana DWI lawyers
With 25 years of combined experience representing clients facing serious charges, such as these, we will guide you through the legal process every step of the way.
Contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation.
How Jones Criminal Defense Attorneys Can Help if You Were Arrested for a Marijuana DWI in Albuquerque, NM
At Jones Criminal Defense Attorneys, our experienced Albuquerque criminal defense attorneys understand how these cases are built and how to dismantle them. When you hire our firm, we will:
- Conduct a detailed review of your traffic stop, arrest, and chemical testing process
- Identify any violations of your constitutional rights
- Investigate the reliability of drug recognition experts (DREs) and testing methods
- Collect evidence that supports your defense, including witness statements and dashcam footage
- Negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss your charges where possible
- Represent you in court and fight for an acquittal at trial if necessary
DWI charges involving marijuana are treated just as seriously as those involving alcohol in Albuquerque, New Mexico. However, proving impairment from marijuana is often far more complicated.
Get in touch with our Albuquerque DWI lawyers today for more information. Your initial consultation is free of charge, and we can briefly advise you of your best course of action at that time.
An Overview of Marijuana DWI Laws in New Mexico
New Mexico law prohibits driving while under the influence of drugs, including marijuana, that impair your ability to operate a vehicle safely. Unlike alcohol DWIs, there is no established legal limit for THC in your system that automatically leads to a conviction. Instead, prosecutors must prove that your driving ability was actually impaired by marijuana use.
Police officers often rely on field sobriety tests or drug recognition experts to determine impairment. They may also request a blood test to measure THC levels. However, because THC can remain in the bloodstream for days or weeks after use, a positive result doesn’t necessarily prove that you were impaired while driving.
What Are the Potential Penalties of a Marijuana DWI Conviction in New Mexico?
The penalties for a marijuana DWI conviction depend on your prior record and the circumstances of your arrest. However, even a first-time conviction can have serious consequences, including:
- Up to 90 days in jail
- Fines of up to $500
- Mandatory drug education or treatment programs
- Probation
- Suspension of your driver’s license for up to one year
For repeat offenders, the penalties escalate significantly. Additionally, if your case involves aggravating factors, such as causing an accident or having a minor in the vehicle, the potential penalties may be even more severe.
What Are the Collateral Consequences of a Marijuana DWI?
The criminal penalties are only part of the story. A marijuana DWI conviction can have far-reaching personal and professional consequences that extend well beyond the courtroom.
These may include:
- Difficulty finding employment, such as in industries that conduct background checks
- Higher auto insurance premiums or policy cancellation
- Challenges in obtaining professional licenses
- Damage to your personal and professional reputation
It’s critical to act quickly after an arrest for a marijuana DWI in Albuquerque to protect your rights as robustly as possible. The sooner you hire a qualified defense attorney, the stronger your chances of a favorable outcome.
What Defenses Can Be Raised Against Marijuana DWI Charges in New Mexico?
New Mexico prosecutors must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were impaired while driving. There are many effective strategies your attorney can use to challenge the state’s evidence, such as:
- Illegal stop and/or arrest
- Faulty field sobriety tests
- Unreliable blood/urine tests
- Improper handling of evidence
- Violation of your Miranda rights
At Jones Criminal Defense Attorneys, we’ll analyze every detail of your case to uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments and ensure your constitutional rights are fully maintained.
Contact Our Albuquerque Marijuana DWI Attorneys for a Free Consultation
Being accused of driving under the influence of marijuana can feel extremely stressful, to say the least, but an arrest is not the same as a conviction. You still have rights, and Jones Criminal Defense Attorneys is ready to defend them.
With 25 years of combined experience, our Albuquerque marijuana DWI defense attorneys have successfully represented clients in complex DWI and drug-related cases throughout the State of New Mexico.
Reach out to us today to schedule a free initial consultation with our team.
Albuquerque Downtown – By Appointment Only
1011 Lomas Blvd NW #105, Albuquerque, NM 87102
(505) 551-5032
Jones Criminal Defense Attorneys LLC
8205 Spain Rd NE #111, Albuquerque, NM 87109
(505) 551-5032
Albuquerque Courts
- District Court Domestic Relations – 400 Lomas Blvd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102
- State Of New Mexico Metropolitan Courthouse – 4th St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102
- District Court Grand Jury – 415 Tijeras Ave NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102
- Albuquerque Federal Building and Courthouse – 421 Gold Ave SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102
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