Little Rock Drug DUI & DWI Attorneys

Aggressive Defense for Drug-Related DUI Charges in Arkansas

Driving under the influence of drugs is considered a serious crime in Arkansas. If you have been caught driving while impaired by drugs, you can be charged with a drug DUI/DWI. At Collins, Collins & Ray, we understand the challenges you are facing. Our Little Rock drug DUI & DWI lawyers are here to help you fight the charges and protect your future. We will work tirelessly to build a strong defense on your behalf.

Call Collins, Collins & Ray today at (501) 392-5007 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our drug DUI & DWI lawyer in Little Rock.

What is Considered a Drug DUI & DWI?

In the state of Arkansas, operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs, which includes prescription medications, is treated with the same seriousness as alcohol-related offenses. A drug DUI/DWI occurs when a driver's capacity to operate a vehicle is impaired due to the influence of drugs. This impairment can be displayed in various ways, such as slowed reaction time, impaired coordination, or altered judgment.

Law enforcement officers are trained to identify signs of drug impairment during traffic stops. These signs may include erratic driving behavior, slurred speech, or the presence of drug paraphernalia in the vehicle. Unlike alcohol-related DUIs, drug DUI cases often involve the assessment of a driver's blood or urine sample to determine the existence of controlled substances.

What are the Penalties for a Drug DUI/DWI in Arkansas?

Being convicted of a drug DUI/DWI in Arkansas carries significant penalties. It's crucial to understand the potential consequences you may face:

• Fines: Substantial monetary fines are imposed, with the amount varying based on the number of offenses.
• License Suspension: A drug DUI conviction often leads to the suspension of your driving privileges, making it challenging to fulfill daily responsibilities.
• Probation: Offenders may be placed on probation, requiring compliance with specific conditions set by the court.
• Community Service: Courts may mandate community service as part of the sentencing, allowing offenders to give back to the community.
• Ignition Interlock Device: In some cases, the installation of an ignition interlock device in your vehicle may be required to ensure sobriety before driving.
• Jail Time: Depending on the severity of the particular offense and prior convictions, jail time may be imposed.

Defenses Against Drug DUI & DWI Charges

Facing a drug DUI or DWI charge doesn't mean an automatic conviction. Some common defenses against drug DUI/DWI charges may include:

• Illegal Stop or Arrest: If law enforcement did not have reasonable doubt to stop your vehicle or lacked probable cause for the arrest, it could be a basis for challenging the charges.
• Inaccurate Test Results: Blood tests and other chemical tests are not foolproof. Errors in testing procedures or faulty equipment can lead to inaccurate results.
• Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions can mimic the effects of drug impairment. Providing medical documentation may help establish that your behavior was due to a health condition rather than drug use.
• Lack of Probable Cause: If law enforcement did not have sufficient evidence to initiate a traffic stop or request drug testing, it may be possible to challenge the validity of the charges.
• Miranda Rights Violation: If you were not informed of your Miranda rights during the arrest process, it could impact the admissibility of statements made during the arrest.