Protecting Your Rights: Understanding New Jersey's Drugged Driving Laws

A female passenger with a headache stepping out of the car

Drugged driving is a serious offense that can result in harsh penalties, such as fines, license suspension, jail time, or even criminal charges. If you are arrested for drugged driving, you need an experienced and aggressive lawyer who can defend your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.

Our drugged driving attorneys have handled many cases of drugged driving and helped our clients avoid conviction or reduce their penalties. We know how to challenge the evidence against you, such as the validity of the impairment test, the reliability of the blood or urine sample, or the legality of the traffic stop. We also know how to negotiate with the prosecutors and explore alternative options, such as conditional discharge or pretrial intervention programs.

If you are facing a drugged driving charge, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation. We will review your case and advise you on the best course of action. We will work tirelessly to protect your rights and reputation. Don’t let a drugged driving charge ruin your life. Call us today and let us help you.

Don't Drive Under the Influence of Drugs – It's Illegal

  • New Jersey adopts a zero-tolerance approach to drugged driving. It is illegal to operate a vehicle while under the influence of any substance (illegal, prescription, or over-the-counter) that impairs your ability to drive safely.
  • Unlike alcohol, where there’s a clear Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) limit, drugged driving can be determined by observing visible impairment and, when needed, blood or urine tests.
  • This can cause confusion, especially if you have valid prescriptions. Always speak to your doctor about the driving risks posed by medication.

Drugged Driving vs. Drunk Driving – What's the Difference?

A police officer conducting a breathalyzer test to a female driver during a road accident
A female passenger with a headache stepping out of the car

Similarities

  • Both drugged and drunk driving endanger yourself and others on the road.
  • Penalties for both include fines, license suspension, jail time, and required educational programs.
  • Convictions stay on your driving record and severely increase insurance rates.

Differences

  • Detection: Drunk driving is tested using BAC, while drugged driving relies on officer observations and complex toxicology tests.
  • Legal Representation: Drugged driving cases can be scientifically intricate, requiring specialized legal knowledge.

Our Firm is Here to Protect You

  • If you’ve been charged with a drug-related DUI, you need strong legal representation. Our attorneys specialize in defending drugged driving cases.
  • We’ll thoroughly review police procedures, scrutinize scientific testing, and explore potential flaws in the prosecution’s case.
  • Our goal is to secure the best possible outcome, whether it’s getting your charges reduced, dismissed, or minimizing the severity of penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I get convicted for substances prescribed by my doctor?

A: Yes, if the substances impair your driving, even with a prescription you can be convicted. We'll analyze specific drugs and medical advice to build your best defense.

Q: Do I have to submit to a drug test?

A: In NJ, the 'implied consent' law applies. By driving, you are deemed to have given consent to chemical testing if suspected of impaired driving. We can advise on challenges to test validity.

Q: Will this always be on my record?

A: While DUI convictions are serious, we can guide you towards potential future expungement opportunities allowed by law.

Contact Us Today

Don’t let a DUI arrest ruin your life. Contact us today for a free consultation. We will help you fight the charges and protect your rights and your future. Call us now or fill out the online form to schedule your free consultation. We are available 24/7 to assist you. Let us be your trusted and reliable DUI defense lawyers in New Jersey.

The Face of Justice

Daniel S. Kratka

Founder

New Jersey DUI lawyer

Daniel S. Kratka

Founder

Daniel S. Kratka began his legal career as a criminal prosecutor, honing his skills as a formidable trial attorney.  He handled hundreds of DUI cases.  He used the skills he developed from trying dui cases as a prosecutor to defend clients in DUI cases throughout the State of New Jersey.

As his google reviews attest, he is a master criminal defense attorney, who assesses each case and client goals to formulate the best legal defense.  He has established an impressive winning track rack record.  Mr. Kratka is a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and has been the attorney of record in many published legal decisions over the years.  Mr. Kratka ‘s excellence was recently recognized when he was selected as a 2023 recipient of the Lawyers of Distinction Award.

Mr. Kratka practices throughout the state courts of New York and New Jersey and represents clients in federal courts throughout the country. He lectures on a variety of legal topics, is the president of his synagogue and is involved in many charitable organizations.

Mr. Kratka is a former All-City Basketball player, who still loves to play and coach.

Let's Start Your DUI Defense Now!

Serving all NJ Counties –