Drugged Driving Charges in Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, the
law prohibits anyone from operating a vehicle when he or she is under the
influence of certain drugs including marijuana. The problem with this
designation is that determining whether or not an individual is "under
the influence" of drugs or marijuana can be difficult. For instance,
in cases involving marijuana, even if the level of THC - the ingredient
in marijuana that causes a high - in the blood is measured, the effect
that THC has on every individual is different. For instance, frequent
marijuana users may maintain a high level of THC even long after the effects
of the substance has worn off.
Consequently, the penalties associated with a drugged driving conviction
in Massachusetts can be alarmingly severe. Upon a first conviction for
operating a vehicle while under the influence of marijuana,
an individual may face the following consequences:
- A fine of between $500 and $5,000
- A jail sentence of up to two and one-half years
- A license suspension for one year
The penalties become even more severe when an individual has more than
one offense. Upon a second conviction for drugged driving in Massachusetts,
for instance,
the penalties may increase to:
- A jail sentence for two to 30 months
- A potential fine of between $600 and $10,000
- A license suspension for two years
- A license suspension for two years
Even with an alternative disposition you face a mandatory in-patient program
of 14 days, with aftercare. Those charged with three or more drugged driving
offenses may face felony charges.
The possible penalties depend on whether it is a third, fourth or fifth
offense and can include:
- A fine of between $1,000 to $15,000
- Minimum mandatory sentences Possible license suspension from anywhere between
eight years for a third offense to a lifetime loss of license on a fifth offense
Consult With a Massachusetts Criminal Defense Attorney
The penalties for drugged driving in Massachusetts are incredibly strict,
despite significant confusion regarding when an individual is actually
impaired while operating a vehicle with marijuana or another drug in his
or her system. If you are facing charges of drugged driving in Massachusetts,
you need to seek the counsel of a skilled criminal defense attorney. The
lawyers at Sweeney and Associates, LLC are aware of the severity of such
charges and will work diligently on your behalf.
Call (617) 300-0212 or request your
complimentary consultation to get started.
