What Are Missouri’s Laws on Driving Under the Influence of Marijuana?

What Are Missouri’s Laws on Driving Under the Influence of Marijuana?At Henderson Legal Defense, we support Missouri drivers facing DUI charges. Missouri’s marijuana laws permit recreational use but ban driving under the influence under state law. Legal cannabis use can still lead to arrests, fines, or jail. A Missouri marijuana DUI lawyer from Henderson Legal Defense can assist. Call (913) 782-4030 or contact us online for a free consultation.

Missouri’s Rules on Marijuana and Driving

Missouri allows recreational marijuana for adults 21 and older, up to 3 ounces, since Amendment 3 passed in 2022. Medical use has been legal since 2018. Yet, driving while impaired by cannabis is illegal, and Missouri law sets no specific THC limit. Chemical tests detect THC in blood or urine, but results may reflect prior use rather than current impairment. Missouri’s DWI laws target observable impairment, not just THC presence.

Regular users face risks since THC metabolites linger in the body. As Missouri marijuana DUI attorneys, we navigate these tough rules. Record details of any traffic stop to bolster your defense.

How Missouri Detects Marijuana-Related Driving Impairment

How Missouri Detects Marijuana-Related Driving ImpairmentMissouri employs several methods to identify marijuana impairment in drivers. Knowing these helps you understand potential DWI charges.

  • Field sobriety tests check coordination with tasks like the walk-and-turn or one-leg stand.
  • Drug Recognition Experts (DREs) evaluate vital signs, pupils, and pulse for drug indicators.
  • Chemical tests detect THC in blood or urine, though results may show past use, not current impairment.
  • Officer observations, such as erratic driving or dashcam footage, support prosecution claims.

Missouri’s constitution prevents a per se THC limit, making impairment subjective. Your Missouri marijuana DUI lawyer from Henderson Legal Defense can contest flawed tests. Collect arrest details to strengthen your case.

Penalties for Marijuana DUI in Missouri

Marijuana DUI penalties in Missouri, detailed in court guidelines, depend on offense history and case factors.

  • First offense: Class B misdemeanor – up to 6 months jail, $500-$1,000 fine, 90-day license suspension, SATOP program.
  • Second offense: Class A misdemeanor – up to 1 year jail, $1,000-$2,000 fine, 1-year suspension.
  • Third+ offense: Felony (Class D/B) – 2-7 years prison, $5,000+ fine, possible permanent revocation.
  • Additional penalties: Priors or accidents worsen outcomes; “Abuse & Lose” suspends licenses for drug-related driving.

At Henderson Legal Defense, we work to reduce penalties and protect your record. Obtain copies of arrest reports and related documents to aid your defense.

Defenses Against Missouri Marijuana DWI Charges

You can fight marijuana DWI charges in court through several defense strategies:

  • Challenging illegal stops or searches that could lead to evidence being suppressed or dismissed.
  • Questioning THC test results, since they often indicate past use rather than current impairment.
  • Exploring diversion programs available for first-time offenders to help avoid a conviction.

Our Missouri marijuana DUI lawyers from Henderson Legal Defense can build a defense strategy specific to your situation. Act quickly to protect your rights and review all available options.

Schedule Your Free Consultation with a Missouri DUI Defense Lawyer

Facing a marijuana DUI charge in Missouri can put your job, family, and future at risk. You don’t have to handle it alone. Our skilled legal team at Henderson Legal Defense stands ready to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome, whether through reduced penalties or a case dismissal. Call (913) 782-4030 or contact us online for a free consultation.