DUID & Drug Intoxication Defense Attorney in Las Vegas
Arrested for Driving Under the Influence of Drugs in Nevada? Call 24/7
Nevada law prohibits driving a vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or controlled substances. The state defines "under the influence" as a condition where a person's ability to operate a vehicle is impaired. Police prove this through various methods, including chemical tests, field sobriety assessments, or by observing unsafe driving. Drivers arrested for a DUI in Las Vegas involving drugs face serious legal consequences.
Las Vegas is known for its vibrant nightlife, from the Strip to Fremont Street, which draws large crowds and heavy tourist traffic. With so many people out and about, law enforcement may increase patrols, leading to a rise in drug DUI charges. Our drug DUI attorneys in Las Vegas understand the stress and uncertainty you may be facing after an arrest. Let us guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and work toward a favorable outcome in your case.
Facing a drug DUI charge in Las Vegas? At Christiansen Trial Lawyers, our trial-tested defense team is available around the clock to provide legal help. Call (702) 357-9977 now to ask for a free consultation!
What Are the Penalties for Driving Under the Influence of Drugs in Nevada?
While the specifics depend on the controlled substances involved, the presence or absence of injuries, and any prior convictions, DUID convictions in Nevada result in serious penalties.
For a first-time drug DUI charge, possible penalties include:
- Up to 6 months in jail
- 48 to 96 hours of community service
- $400 to $1,000 in fines
- Paying for and completing drug and alcohol abuse training
- Paying for and installing an IID
If you have prior convictions, or if there were severe or fatal injuries in a resulting accident, penalties could include:
- 2 to 20 years in prison
- $2,000 to $5,000 in fines
- Becoming a convicted felon
Consequences of a Drug DUI Conviction Beyond Legal Penalties
A drug DUI conviction in Nevada affects far more than your criminal record or court sentence. The long-term personal, professional, and financial consequences can impact nearly every aspect of your life.
Consequences of a drug DUI conviction include:
- Employment challenges: A conviction can appear on background checks, making it harder to secure or maintain jobs, especially those requiring driving or professional licenses.
- Higher insurance rates: Auto insurance premiums can skyrocket after a DUI conviction.
- Housing difficulties: Landlords and property managers may deny rental applications due to a criminal record.
- Educational impact: Colleges or universities may deny admission to students with DUID convictions.
- Social stigma: The emotional and reputational effects can strain personal relationships and community standing.
- Financial strain: Fines, legal fees, treatment programs, and increased insurance costs can add up quickly, creating lasting financial pressure.
A drug DUI conviction doesn’t just end in the courtroom; it can follow you for years afterward. Seeking legal representation early and exploring record-sealing options when eligible can help limit these lasting consequences and support a fresh start.
What Controlled Substances Can Trigger a Drug DUI Charge?
If a prosecutor can prove impairment and a measurable amount of an illegal or prescription drug in the driver's system, then this could lead to a drug DUI conviction. However, Nevada law has set out certain limits, similar to the BAC for standard DUI charges, and these limits establish an amount under which it will be assumed that a driver is impaired, regardless of any other testing or observations.
Nevada's limits for illegal drugs in a driver's urine and blood include:
- Amphetamine: 500 ng/mL in urine or 100 ng/mL in blood
- Cocaine: 150 ng/mL in urine or 50 ng/mL in blood
- Heroin: 2,000 ng/mL in urine or 50 ng/mL in blood
- LSD: 25 ng/mL in urine or 10 ng/mL in blood
- Methamphetamine: 500 ng/mL in urine or 100 ng/mL in blood
- Phencyclidine: 25 ng/mL in urine or 10 ng/mL in blood
What About Cannabis or Marijuana?
Although some cannabis use is legal in Nevada, any driver pulled over with 2 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL) of THC or 5 ng/mL of 11-hydroxy-THC in their system can receive DUID charges.
Even when illegal drugs do not surpass DUID limits, you may still face separate drug charges for possession or use.
What Are Common Defenses to Drug DUI Charges in Las Vegas?
Drug DUI cases are complex and highly fact-specific. The unique circumstances of your arrest will determine the most effective defense strategy. Defending against a DUID charge in Las Vegas often hinges on a close review of every step in the arrest, starting with the initial stop.
Here are some common defenses against drug DUI charges:
- Improper Testing Procedures: Blood or urine samples may have been mishandled, contaminated, or tested using improperly calibrated equipment.
- Unlawful Traffic Stop: If law enforcement conducted the stop without reasonable suspicion or probable cause, any evidence obtained may be inadmissible in court.
- No Actual Impairment: The presence of a drug in your system does not automatically mean you were impaired.
We thoroughly analyze lab reports, police conduct, and all technical aspects of your arrest. If your rights were violated or procedures were not correctly followed, our drug DUI lawyer in Las Vegas can challenge the evidence and pursue a favorable outcome.
How Our Las Vegas Drug DUI Defense Attorneys Can Help You
Our Las Vegas DUID defense attorneys at Christiansen Trial Lawyers have more than 120 years of combined legal experience and have participated in hundreds of jury trials. Our team thoroughly reviews your case, including whether you were impaired by drugs and if state evidence can be challenged. We make ourselves available 24/7 to provide guidance, answer questions, and offer straightforward advice.
Call (702) 357-9977 today to schedule a free consultation with our Las Vegas drug DUI defense attorneys! We offer services in English and Spanish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a DUID Affect My Criminal Record in Nevada?
Yes, a DUID conviction will appear on your criminal record in Nevada. This outcome can affect future job applications and professional licensing.
What Should I Do After Being Arrested for a Drug DUI in Las Vegas?
If you are arrested, be respectful and polite to law enforcement and consult a drug DUI defense attorney in Las Vegas as soon as possible. Write down what happened during your stop and arrest, since these facts may strengthen your defense.
Can Prescription Medication Result in a DUID Charge?
Yes, prescription medication can lead to a drug DUI charge if it impairs your ability to drive safely. Our DUID lawyer in Las Vegas can examine your case and help you work toward a favorable outcome in this situation.
