Colorado Marijuana DUI/DWAI Defense Attorney

Receiving a DUI or DWAI for drugged driving is not a new concept. Each state has laws discouraging people from using motor vehicles while under the influence of alcohol, prescription drugs, or illegal drugs. Colorado is no different.

Understanding Colorado’s Marijuana DUI/DWAI Limits

Colorado finds itself in a unique position regarding drug-related DUI/DWAI charges. As only one of two states with legal marijuana, the Centennial State needed to establish a blood level limit of active THC. The limit was needed to help police determine if a person is “too stoned to drive.”

To determine if a motorist is under the influence, the limit for Delta 9- Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the active compound in marijuana, was set at 5 nanograms per milliliter of blood. Five nanograms or higher results in a marijuana-related DUI charge and below 5 nanograms can result in a DWAI charge.

Five nanograms per milliliter is not a large amount by any stretch of the imagination. A nanogram is equal to 1 billionth of a gram. To illustrate just how small that is, consider this: a paperclip weighs one gram. Slice that paperclip into one billion equal pieces. Each slice is equal to one nanogram- Colorado has deemed five nanograms to be the legal limit per milliliter of blood. A milliliter being equal to 20 drops of liquid. That wouldn’t be enough to fill your tablespoon half way.

Testing Methods and Controversies Surrounding THC Levels

There are four different types of tests used to detect the use of marijuana, but only a blood or saliva swab detect active Delta 9 – THC. Urine and hair drug tests only detect the byproducts left by your body breaking down THC. This limits law enforcement’s testing options to a saliva or blood test. A blood test is the most common marijuana drug test Colorado law enforcement officers use.

The saliva test allegedly detects the THC level and the recency of marijuana use. Yet saliva testing isn’t being widely used, leaving the blood draw as the most common test. Blood testing provides police with accurate THC levels, but that is where the controversy lies in this matter.

Opponents say the law is unfair to habitual users and those with medical marijuana cards. Since THC stays in the body longer, habitual users are in constant violation of current marijuana DUI laws. Denver area pot critic “William Breathes,” wrote how long marijuana stayed in his system. Breathes, a self-admitted daily user of marijuana, abstained from marijuana for three days. He then submitted to a blood test. The results showed a THC level 3 times the legal limit in his system, even after 72 hours. You can read his post here.

The law can change in the future. After more research on marijuana and impairment, politicians could change the legal limit. Case rulings can also alter the way the law is applied, but any change through those methods will be slow coming.

Seeking Legal Help After a Marijuana DUI/DWAI Charge

Regardless of whether you agree with the limit or not, it is the law in Colorado on marijuana-related DUI/DWAI charges. Colorado residents using marijuana should not get behind the wheel. Even if they “feel fine,” or think the effects have worn off, it’s in everyone’s best interest if someone else drives. If that’s not an option, a bus or cab ride would also be cheaper than a DWAI/DUI charge.

Yet, we’re all human and we all make mistakes. A DUI/DWAI charge for marijuana or alcohol is an dangerous and expensive mistake. DUI/DWAI laws are not forgiving to those who are charged with violating them.

But this type of mistake doesn’t make you a bad person. We’re all human and should be treated like such. That’s where Wolf Law is different from other criminal defense attorneys in Colorado.

Call Us Today!

Marijuana-impaired driving cases can follow you for years—but they don’t have to define you. At Wolf Law LLC, we’re ready to help you challenge the evidence, defend your rights, and preserve your future.

Contact us today or call 720-479-8574 for a free consultation. You pay nothing unless we win.

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Services with Jeff

Jeff accepted a traffic violation case with not a ton of time to prepare. He provided clear instructions on how to proceed with the initial hearing in order for this individual to receive an extension and time to gain attorney representation. From there, he continued take the extra steps necessary to not only communicate effectively and clearly but also provide a level of advocacy that was necessary for this vulnerable individual! Thanks Jeff — Your work, patience and understanding is greatly appreciated!

— Nicole Young

My Heart Was Ripped Out, Wolf Law Showed Compassion

In early March, my heart was seemingly ripped out. I was driving into town with my two children, 5 and 2, in extremely inclimate weather conditions when my car hit a patch of ice and I lost control of my vehicle. It was a horrific accident and I was the only survivor in my vehicle. As if this wasn’t the worst thing that could have ever happened, I was charged with careless driving resulting in death, two counts. I was referred to Mr. Wolf by four separate law offices, as well as the BAR Association. The District Attorney’s office attempted to raise my charges to much more serious felony charges that could have carried very harsh sentences. Mr. Wolf was able to maintain the original charges and speak compassion and mercy to the the judge, leaving me facing only community service and a short probation with minimal associated probation costs. I would recommend his services to anybody and everybody. Not only is he incredibly knowledgeable, but he is passionate about his work, while showing the utmost compassion and respect for his clients’ situation.

— Jamie

Gets the job done!

I recently hired Mr. Wolf for a 23-year-old case and I am extremely satisfied with his service. Mr. Wolf was very knowledgeable, professional, and compassionate throughout the entire process. He kept me informed every step of the way and made sure I understood everything. The outcome of my case was better than I expected, as it was dismissed. I would highly recommend this firm to anyone in need of a criminal defense attorney. Mr. Wolf is efficient and effective, and he truly cares about his clients.

— Jothan Simmons

Personalized, Professional Service

I utilized Mr. Wolf’s services for my case. Granted each case is individual, but I was able to get my charge dismissed. Mr. Wolf worked with me and communicated with me in a timely manner, always being available for questions and/or support. His fees are reasonable and his service exemplary. I highly recommend Wolf Law if you are in need of services for criminal charges.

— Carin

Complete Satisfaction

Jeff took on 2 cases for me with complete success. He is extremely sharp and confident. Jeff really gets to know his clients and is very sympathetic to their needs.
The relationships he has with prosecutors and the judges was pure respect. When he spoke he had the ears of the courtroom. He speaks very eloquent and exudes confidence that translates into the result I was looking for, “Case Dismissed.”

I highly recommend his services. If you are need of his services you will get more than what you pay for.

— Steven L.

Wolf Fought Hard and I Owe Him for All He Did

I am writing this letter to show how much I appreciate Mr. Jeff Wolf for representing me in my DUI case. When I first visited Mr. Wolf I had all these questions of what is going to happen in the case and to myself. I did have a prior DUI in another state so this was new to me.

I received my DUI in April and finished my court in September. During this time Mr. Wolf had an open door policy if you wanted to visit or maybe answer any questions that I may have had. His personal attention to my case made me feel at ease at all my court appearances.

Mr. Wolf guided me through all the steps that were taking place around my case and all his advice paid off when the day came for my sentencing. Actually, the judge was impressed with all the steps I was doing to remedy my terrible mistake. Mr. Wolf fought hard for me and I owe him for all that he did for my family and myself. I can honestly say that I have found a gentleman that I would recommend to another or help my family with any issues.

— Brian G.

Cassandra Monahan

Cassandra was absolutely amazing. She was fast, polite, professional, proficient, and extremely knowledgeable. She stayed in constant contact and took my many calls and silly questions. I rate her a 10 out of 10.

— Matthew Ferreira

Jeffrey Wolf is Everything You Could Hope for in a Defense Attorney

When a tragic situation affected our family, we immediately contacted Jeffery Wolf. We were comforted knowing that we had a knowledgeable, communicative and compassionate attorney on our side. He often answered our calls after-hours and always stayed with us after court appearances to answer all our questions. During busy times, he would be sure to send a quick note letting us know when he would get back to us and never left us wondering if he had received our inquiries. Beyond being confident that we had the best representation possible, we also knew that Jeffery really cared about us and in fact, he became an honorary member of our family. He was open and honest with us and the DA in order to come up with the best, most fair agreement. We were never left wondering what was going on or what was going to happen. We knew that Jeffery would fight for us as hard and for as long as it took. It felt wonderful knowing that we had Jeffery in our corner. Hopefully we will never need his services again, but if we do, he will be our first call. We highly recommend Jeffery Wolf for anyone who needs a lawyer and wants the best.

— Jenni DeWitt Walker

Excellent Representation

After finding myself wrongfully accused of a DUI charge, Mr. Wolf fought to show the DA that I was not guilty and ultimately got the charge dismissed. Mr. Wolf’s knowledge, professionalism, and effectiveness made me feel comfortable and confident throughout my case. He was always more than willing to answer any questions I had promptly and thoroughly. Although this was an unfortunate situation, I couldn’t have asked for better representation. I would highly recommend Mr. Wolf!

— Anonymous

Worth every penny. Wolf Law at your side.

Wolf Law LLC is an exceptional law firm that I would recommend to all in search for legal help or advice. I had a troublesome case, it had me very worried and distraught, I had no idea what to do. I talked with Jeff in a FREE consultation, he was very knowledgeable and understanding of my situation, it had made me feel a lot more comfortable about my case and the position I was in (as if I was family). Every time there was something new about my case or even if I had questions, I felt comforted and relieved, Jeff responded very quickly.

I know not every case is the same and may not be dismissed like mine was, but with Wolf Law in your corner, I believe you have a fighting chance. Thank you again Wolf Law for fighting with me!

— B. Davis