Arrested for a Marijuana DWI in Minnesota?
DWIs in Minnesota: Essential Information Under Statute 169A.20
If you're facing serious charges related to marijuana and driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Minnesota, it's crucial to consult with an experienced DWI and Marijuana Defense Attorney. As societal attitudes toward marijuana shift, understanding its implications on driving laws has become increasingly important. In Minnesota, while recreational use of marijuana may be permitted in certain situations, driving under its influence remains a serious violation of Minnesota Statute 169A.20. If you are facing serious marijuana DWI charges, make sure you consult with an experienced Marijuana DWI Defense Attorney.
“Jack has been doing this since before the turn of the century and is a member of the National College for DUI Defense and a Graduate of the Standard Field Sobriety Test Program.”
Is Driving After Using Marijuana Illegal?
In Minnesota, simply using marijuana and driving afterward is not automatically illegal. According to Statute 169A.20, it is illegal to drive under the influence of a controlled substance. Marijuana, despite changes in its legal status, is still classified as a controlled substance. This means that if your driving ability is impaired by marijuana use, you can be charged with a DWI.
Understanding 'Under the Influence'
To convict someone of a marijuana-related DWI, prosecutors must prove two key elements:
The driver was under the influence of marijuana while operating a vehicle.
The driver’s ability to safely control the vehicle was impaired by marijuana use.
Merely having marijuana in your system does not guarantee a conviction; the state must demonstrate that your ability to drive was negatively impacted. The police must show more than simply having it in your system.
Key Evidence in Marijuana DWI Cases
Evidence plays a pivotal role in marijuana DWI cases. Prosecutors often rely on:
Driver admissions regarding marijuana use (e.g., when they last used it and any effects they may still feel).
Signs of recent marijuana use, such as the smell of burnt marijuana and presence of paraphernalia like vapes or bongs in the vehicle.
However, challenges arise because blood and urine tests do not conclusively indicate impairment at the time of driving. These tests may reflect past use, but they cannot definitively show that a driver was under the influence when operating the vehicle, making prosecutions for marijuana DWIs complex.
How to Defend Against a Marijuana DWI Charge
Having an experienced marijuana DWI attorney can significantly impact the outcome of your case. A knowledgeable attorney can challenge the validity of drug recognition evaluations (DRE) and other testing methods used by law enforcement. They can advocate for your rights and demonstrate that the prosecution's case may not be as clear-cut as it appears.
In order to convict you of a Marijuana DWI in Minnesota, simply saying its in your system is not enough. There are NO scientific studies that say this amount or that amount proves you are intoxicated. I repeat, NONE.”
The goal is often to encourage the prosecutor to reconsider proceeding to trial, as many may be reluctant to risk a trial loss and may be open to negotiating a plea deal. An adept attorney will be prepared to take your case to court if necessary, enhancing the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
Choosing the right attorney is critical. An inexperienced lawyer might rush into a plea deal, whereas a skilled attorney will work diligently to defend your rights and avoid wrongful convictions.
If you find yourself in such a situation, contact Jack Rice Defense for a free confidential consultation at 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339. When your job, reputation, and life are at stake, let Jack Rice Defense stand by your side.