St. Johns County DUID Attorney

Skilled Defense for Drugged Driving Charges in St. Johns County, FL

Being arrested for driving under the influence of drugs (DUID) in Florida is a serious matter with consequences that can affect your freedom, finances, and future. While most people associate DUI charges with alcohol, Florida law also prohibits driving while impaired by controlled substances, prescription medications, or even over-the-counter drugs.

At First Coast Criminal Defense, our attorneys understand the complexities of DUID cases and how Florida prosecutors approach these charges. Whether your case involves recreational drugs, prescription medication, or alleged marijuana impairment, we are prepared to fight for your rights and build a strong defense. 

If you or a loved one has been arrested for drugged driving in St. Johns County, call us at (904) 474-3115 to schedule a confidential consultation.

Understanding DUID Under Florida Law

Florida Statute 316.193 makes it illegal to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, chemical substances, or controlled substances that impair normal faculties. “Normal faculties” refers to your ability to see, hear, walk, talk, make judgments, and perform routine activities.

Unlike alcohol-related DUI cases, which use clear blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limits, proving drug impairment is far more complicated. Prosecutors often rely on:

• Observations from law enforcement officers
• Field sobriety tests
• Blood or urine samples
• Statements from witnesses

Because drug impairment cannot be measured as precisely as alcohol intoxication, these cases often involve subjective interpretations. This creates opportunities for an experienced St. Johns County DUID attorney to challenge the prosecution’s evidence.

Recreational Drug DUID in Florida

Many drugged driving cases involve recreational substances such as:

• Marijuana
• Cocaine
• MDMA (Ecstasy)
• Methamphetamine
• Ketamine

Proving marijuana impairment is particularly challenging for prosecutors. There is no established “legal limit” for THC, and traces of marijuana can remain in a person’s system for days or weeks after use—long after any impairment has ended. This makes it difficult to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that a driver was impaired at the time of arrest.

Prescription Drug DUID in Florida

Having a valid prescription is not a defense to DUID. If a prescribed medication impairs your ability to drive safely, you can still be arrested. Common prescription drugs associated with DUID arrests include:

• Xanax
• Oxycodone
• Adderall
• Methadone
• Vicodin

Even when used as directed, these medications can affect coordination, judgment, and reaction times. Our attorneys can help demonstrate whether your medication actually caused impairment or whether law enforcement rushed to judgment.

Penalties for DUID in Florida

Drug DUI penalties in Florida are severe and escalate with repeat offenses:

First Offense (second-degree misdemeanor)

• Up to 6 months in jail
• Up to $1,000 in fines
• License suspension for up to 1 year
• 50 hours of community service
• Mandatory drug evaluation and DUI school

Second Offense (first-degree misdemeanor)

• Up to 9 months in jail (10-day mandatory minimum if within 5 years)
• Up to $2,000 in fines
• License suspension for up to 5 years
• Vehicle impoundment
• Installation of ignition interlock device

Third Offense (felony)

• Up to 5 years in prison
• Up to $5,000 in fines
• License revocation for at least 10 years

A conviction can also lead to a permanent criminal record, higher insurance premiums, and difficulties securing employment or housing.

Defenses to DUID Charges

Every case is different, and the best defense depends on the facts and evidence involved. At First Coast Criminal Defense, we explore all possible defense strategies, including:

• Challenging Test Results: Blood and urine tests for drugs are often unreliable and may not prove actual impairment.
• Questioning Officer Observations: Field sobriety tests are subjective, and officers may misinterpret fatigue, medical conditions, or nervousness as impairment.
• Chain of Custody Issues: Improper handling of evidence can render test results invalid.
• Medical Defenses: Certain conditions can mimic signs of impairment, undermining the prosecution’s case.
• Lack of Proof of Impairment: The state must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that your normal faculties were impaired at the time of driving.

Why Choose First Coast Criminal Defense?

Facing a DUID charge in St. Johns County is stressful, but you do not have to face it alone. Clients choose our firm because we offer:

• Local Knowledge: We understand how DUID cases are handled by St. Johns County judges and prosecutors.
• Personalized Defense: We tailor every strategy to your unique circumstances, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
• Aggressive Representation: We challenge questionable evidence and fight to minimize or dismiss charges.
• Comprehensive Guidance: From arrest through trial or plea negotiations, we stand by you every step of the way.

Contact a St. Johns County DUID Lawyer Today

A DUID conviction can alter your future in lasting ways. If you have been accused of drugged driving in St. Johns County, you need a skilled legal team on your side. At First Coast Criminal Defense, we provide aggressive defense strategies tailored to your case and work tirelessly to protect your rights.

Call (904) 474-3115 today or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced St. Johns County DUID attorney.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens after a DUID arrest in St. Johns County?

After an arrest, you will generally be taken to the St. Johns County jail for processing and a first appearance. A judge will address your conditions for release at this hearing. Early legal intervention is critical to protect your rights from the start.

How are DUID cases investigated locally?

Law enforcement in St. Johns County may use Drug Recognition Experts, field sobriety exercises, and urine or blood tests to gather evidence. Their findings are central to the prosecutor’s case and are meticulously reviewed in our defense process.

How are DUID cases different from alcohol DUI cases?

Alcohol DUIs rely on BAC levels, while DUIDs depend on observations, field sobriety tests, and drug screenings. These methods are less reliable, which can work in your favor.