Utah County law enforcement agencies actively participate in the DEA Metro Narcotics Task Force and the Utah County Major Crimes Task Force. These agencies often prosecute various drug-related offenses and drug charges. Here are some of the most common drug charges and DUI penalties in Utah County, as explained by experienced criminal defense lawyer Jake Gunter.
If convicted of a methamphetamine offense while operating a motor vehicle, your driver’s license will be suspended for 120 days. A first-time meth offense is classified as a Class A Misdemeanor in Utah.
A first-time heroin offense is also a Class A Misdemeanor. Like meth, being caught with heroin while driving results in a 120-day suspension of your driver’s license.
As of September 2020, marijuana remains illegal in Utah without a valid medical cannabis card. However, even with a medical card, street-potency marijuana is illegal. Marijuana offenses can be enhanced if multiple offenses occur.
The amount of drugs found in your possession and whether you’re accused of selling drugs can enhance your charges, often escalating them to felonies.
Drug charges are significantly enhanced if the offense occurs in a drug-free zone. These zones include:
See Utah Code Ann. 58-37-8(d) (2020) for further details on drug-free zones.
Domestic violence convictions in Utah carry serious consequences. Being convicted of a domestic violence offense can lead to restrictions on your right to possess firearms, and protective orders may be issued, either temporarily or permanently.
Federal law prohibits firearm possession if you’re convicted of domestic violence or if there’s a protective order against you. Utah law classifies certain convictions, like domestic violence assault or aggravated assault, as Category II Restricted Person offenses under Utah Code Ann. 76-10-503(1)(b)(xi) (2020).
First-time DUI offenders face severe penalties, including:
Impaired driving convictions come with reduced penalties compared to DUI, but it is still an enhanceable offense. There is no mandatory jail time or driver’s license suspension, but it can still affect your driving record.
If you have a controlled substance in your body while driving (excluding medical marijuana with a card), you could face a metabolite DUI charge.
This offense occurs when someone accumulates three or more moving violations within a three-mile distance. Reckless driving in Utah carries a $683 fine, 80 points on your driving record, and possible probation.
With nearly 20 years of experience defending individuals accused of crimes, Jake Gunter provides top-tier legal defense for clients facing drug, DUI, domestic violence, and other criminal charges. Whether you’re dealing with drug distribution charges, impaired driving offenses, or domestic violence accusations, Jake Gunter has the experience to help.
Call or text (801) 373-6345 for a free consultation.
If you’re facing criminal charges in Utah County, here are some useful court resources:
For more information or legal help, call or text Jake Gunter at (801) 373-6345.
If you’re facing drug charges, DUI offenses, or domestic violence accusations in Utah County, it’s crucial to hire an experienced lawyer like Jake Gunter. His deep knowledge of Utah law and years of courtroom experience give him the ability to defend your rights effectively. Call today for a free consultation and get the defense you deserve.
