DUI Lawyers Serving the Surrounding Chicago Area
Illinois has recently passed a few laws regarding cannabis decriminalization and use, including what happens when you are pulled over after marijuana use. According to DUI (a) (7), people will be subject to driving under the influence (DUI) charges only if they have 5 or more nanograms of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in their blood or 10 or more nanograms of THC in their saliva.
If you've been accused of a DUI, you will need an excellent Arlington Heights criminal defense attorney to represent you in court. Most state DUI penalties can be particularly harsh, and Illinois is no different. Trust our skilled advocates to defend you in court.
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Testing for THC
Unlike testing BAC for traces of alcohol, it's not as easy to detect THC. Typically, an officer would need to take a blood or urine sample to make this determination. Depending on a person's size, weight, and the potency of the bud, a person's THC levels could vary significantly even one hour after smoking cannabis. Research has shown that red blood cells do not absorb THC well, and the blood content of THC spikes right after use and drops off fairly quickly. Saliva testing has also proven to be somewhat unreliable. If you are pulled over for suspicion of marijuana use, a police officer must have a warrant to require you to submit to a test. You are also legally able to refuse the test, just as you can refuse a breathalyzer. However, there are administrative penalties for doing so.
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If you've been arrested for a DUI on suspicion of cannabis use, make sure you have an experienced attorney on your side. Wierenga | Chiapelli is a highly rated firm whose attorneys are proud to provide outstanding service and advocacy to clients in the Arlington Heights area. You have a lot at stake with a DUI charge, so trust us to do our best to get you the best results possible.