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Traffic Lawyers for Drug Driving Charges Sunshine Coast, QLD
If you’re looking for a highly experienced Drug driving lawyer then Smith Criminal Law can help!
Roadside drug tests are becoming more and more common. Just like breath testing for blood-alcohol levels, roadside drug tests are sometimes administered to drivers randomly at testing spots, and sometimes at the scene of an event such as following an accident.
An initial saliva test is normally followed up by a laboratory testing process to confirm the presence of illicit drugs. This may include drugs such as MDMA (often found in ecstasy), cannabis, amphetamines or cocaine.
Drug driving charges fall into two categories in Queensland:
- Driving under the influence of a drug.
- Driving with a relevant drug present in blood or saliva.
In the first, the law is applied if you drive a motor vehicle while there is an intoxicating drug in your system, and that the drug measurably affects your ability to drive. Penalties here reflect those of a high-level drink-driving charge, with a maximum penalty of 9 months in prison for a first offence. Subsequent offences (within five years) may result in much more significant sentences.
In the second case, police simply have to prove that the substance was in the driver’s system. (They don’t have to demonstrate that it was actually affecting the driver’s ability). They also do not have to demonstrate that a particular amount or concentration was involved, simply that it was present. Convictions in these cases involve a one-month suspension for a first offence but increase with any subsequent offences.
Smith Criminal Law: Skilled Drug Driving Lawyers for Drug Charges Queensland
Like many traffic offences, drug driving charges can carry significant penalties.
For comprehensive and confidential discussions about how to approach these charges, contact the experienced team at Smith Criminal Law.
We will take the time to understand your situation and to craft a carefully considered defence for your case. We can provide expert Drug Driving lawyer guidance on entering a guilty or not-guilty plea, and we can support you through an appeal process if necessary.
It can be easy to feel overwhelmed when facing a charge of drug driving. Our experienced team at Smith Criminal Law are here to help.