Driving while intoxicated, or DWI, involves a driver operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs. In Utah, driving under the influence, or DUI, refers to operating a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. The state also has another criminal charge a driver can be charged with: metabolite DUI.
The official criminal charge in Utah is called Measurable Controlled Substance. The statute is similar to the DUI statute because it makes it illegal to drive while under the influence of drugs and/ or alcohol. However, the Metabolite DUI charge doesn’t require any actual controlled substance to be found in a driver’s body at the time of the arrest. Instead, any drug which inhibits driving is enough to be charged if the defendant was operating an automobile.
How Can I Be Charged When I Didn’t Have Any Measurable Drug in My System?
The law allows for a driver to be found guilty if prosecutors can show the driver had chemical residue in their system. This means the driver recently processed a controlled substance.
What Is the Penalty for a Conviction of Metabolite DUI?
In Utah, it’s a Misdemeanor B to have any measurable substance in a driver’s system. It’s possible for a driver to spend approximately six months in jail and pay a fine. The penalty may increase, including suspension of a driver’s license.
Can an Attorney Help Me with a DUI Charge?
Yes, contact a criminal defense attorney to learn more about defending yourself in a DUI-related crime.
