Prescription Medication And DUI/DWI Defense In Maryland
Maryland law enforcement aggressively pursues DUI charges involving prescription medications, even when taken as prescribed. The state treats prescription drug impairment with the same severity as alcohol intoxication, which results in license suspension, substantial fines and potential jail time. Since your legal rights are already at stake, navigating these complex legal issues requires you to enlist the support of a skilled defense attorney.
The Law Offices of Thomas C. Mooney focuses on defending clients in DUI and DWI cases involving prescription medications. Our team has earned a reputation for effective advocacy and favorable outcomes across Prince George’s County and surrounding areas. In your circumstance, we can provide aggressive defense strategies tailored to your unique circumstances.
Prescription Medications Can Lead To DUI/DWI Charges
Many prescription medications, including painkillers, anti-anxiety drugs and sleep aids, have side effects that can impair your ability to operate a vehicle. Maryland law considers you impaired if your driving is negatively affected by these medications. As such, the moment of your arrest shapes your entire defense. Some key factors that influence prescription medication DUI cases include:
- Officers must prove actual impairment, unlike alcohol cases where a 0.08 reading automatically triggers charges.
- Taking prescribed medication as directed is not a legal defense if it impairs driving ability.
- Combining prescription drugs with even small amounts of alcohol can result in charges.
- Field sobriety tests often fail to measure prescription drug effects accurately.
These cases are particularly challenging because they require proving that impairment was directly caused by the medication, not other factors.
We Build A Tailored, Strategic Defense
Handling a DUI/DWI case involving prescription drugs is no straightforward task. Prosecutors will seek to establish impairment, often using evidence from officers or toxicology reports. Countering this requires a comprehensive legal approach.
Thankfully, we understand the complexities of Maryland law and know how to build a defense that can maximize your chances of success.
Delaying Can Derail Your Future
Act fast by calling the Law Offices of Thomas C. Mooney via 301-579-3429 or reaching out online to schedule your free consultation. Our Upper Marlboro office stands ready to evaluate your case and craft a strategic defense.