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Denver marijuana DUI defense lawyerReceiving 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, medication or illegal drugs. Colorado is no different.

Colorado, however, finds itself in a unique position about 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 an 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 table spoon half way.

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 police 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 there 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.

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. If you are charged with a pot related DUI or DWAI, contact Wolf Law at any time. Wolf Law is confidential and the initial consultation is free.

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Wonderful Experience with Colleen Kelley

I recently had the pleasure of becoming Colleen Kelley’s client. Even despite the terrible circumstances of fighting wrongful criminal charges, Colleen provided a supportive and pleasant experience during this process. Thankfully, I was introduced to Colleen through another attorney. She took my case on short notice and started working on my behalf in less than 24 hours by showing up to court the day after I secured her services.

She was diligent in her research, communication, and pursuit of justice. In just three short months, my case was dismissed. During this three-month nightmare, Colleen provided clarity and assurance along the way. While Colleen was very thorough in regards to every possible outcome I might experience, her professionalism and devotion to this case made it clear that the outcomes would be outstanding from day one. I’m so thankful that I found Colleen to represent me. I would highly recommend her services.

— Dawn R.

Understanding, Patient, Helpful

Working with Jeff was the best choice I could have made for my circumstances. Not only did he take his time in hearing my side but also those around me. This allowed me to take care of myself as I moved through the legal process and provide the best results possible. Thank You for all the Help Jeff!!

— Anonymous

Jeff Wolf Helped Me Keep My Job

Jeff was a terrific advocate while representing me through my DWAI. He was professional. I am convinced that it was his prior trial experience and effective communication skills that secured a much more desirable sentence than I had expected. I am positive that Jeff’s representation made it so that I could keep my job.

— Matt

Professional, Thorough and Successful

Jeff handled my case with expertise and professionalism. He examined my case quickly and accurately then presented me with sound options and advice going forward. Very satisfied with the almost immediate responses to phone calls and emails. Pleased with the outcome Jeff was able to provide in my case.

— Charlie G.

Professional, Passionate and Knowledgeable

This was my first experience with the law, and Jeffrey Wolf did a fantastic job of guiding me and my family through this. He was always available to answer any concerns I had, realistic in terms of what we were looking at, and passionate about getting us through this. He truly took my case to heart and was a lifesaver through a trying time. Thanks to him, I still have a chance to succeed in my career and lead a normal life!

— Tyler C.

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

Here’s a Lawyer You can Trust

I found myself threatened with life-changing accusations, and Jeff Wolf was there for me. Kept me up to date every step of the way and really helped relieve the stress of going through something so awful. 100 percent worth every penny.

— Patrick

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

Sensitive Criminal Matter

At first I was unsure, working with attorneys can be so stressful and difficult to gauge if they can help you effectively. I used this firm for two different cases and I was glad that they were reasonable and didn’t tell me falsehoods. Straight to the point and don’t promise you rainbows and butterflies. That is what you want: a straight up lawyer who doesn’t give you nonsense. Be patient, they will help you and you can feel like they forgot; but that’s just how this stuff goes. Court cases take time and they have many clients, its nothing personal. When we went to court everything was laid out for me to understand and I think they prepared for each task. Each case was handled professionally and they answered all my questions. Thank you, Cassandra and Colleen

— Anonymous

Amazing Service and Representation

I had the pleasure of working with Cassandra on a petition I was making to the court. Cassandra’s representation was amazing. She communicated exactly what would be required of me. She set realistic expectations of how the process would work and kept me updated on where my petition was i the judicial process. I give Cassandra Monahan and Wolf Law my highest recommendation if you need someone on your side in the judicial system.

Thank you Cassandra for everything you did. I appreciate you!!!

— Mark J.