Fight a Charge of Driving While Intoxicated on Drugs in Texas
In addition to DWIs that involve alcohol, police officers in Texas have started to arrest more drivers for the crime of driving while intoxicated on drugs. DWI drug crimes may involve illegal drugs, such as marijuana, but can also involve legal prescription and over the counter drugs that impair a person's ability to drive a motor vehicle. These drug crimes carry the same penalties as DWIs involving alcohol but are investigated in a different manner.
At my law firm, I, Bret Griffin, provide DWI criminal defense to individuals charged with driving under the influence of drugs in Galveston County and Houston, Texas. I know that police officers and prosecuting attorneys do not always look out for the best interests of their suspects and may infringe upon their Constitutional rights during arrests and the gathering of evidence. By hiring an experienced lawyer, you can protect yourself and your rights.
I also represent people charged with other drug crimes in Texas, including misdemeanor and felony drug possession.
Investigations of DWI Drugs in Galveston County
When a police officer makes a stop and suspects that the driver is operating under the influence of alcohol, he or she may give the driver a breath test to determine the person's blood alcohol content. If the breath test comes back below the legal limit - including at 0.0 - the officer may start to suspect that the DWI involves drugs instead of alcohol.
Of course, if prescription bottles, drug paraphernalia, or other items are in the car, the suspicion of DWI drugs may be present from the outset of the stop.
Officers who suspect that a driver is under the influence of drugs may call a drug recognition expert to evaluate the driver. This expert will typically put the driver through a 12-step process to determine what kind of drugs, if any, are present in the system. This process includes physical tests, such as taking a pulse, checking pupil size and taking samples of urine or blood from the suspect.
Learn More About Your Rights After a DWI Drugs Arrest
Unfortunately, some officers who suspect drugs are present during a traffic stop will often jump to conclusions or use circumstantial evidence to make an arrest. As a former Galveston County Assistant District Attorney, I understand the procedures that officers are required to use when making an arrest and will hold them accountable for their actions.
Contact me, Bret Griffin, to make an appointment for a free initial consultation and to learn more about your rights under Texas law. I offer reasonable fees and payment plans for your convenience. Call my Houston office toll free at 888-889-0926.
