Roadside Drug Tests: What You Need To Know
May 12th, 2019 | by Scott C. Thomas, Orange County Criminal Law Attorney
May 12th, 2019 | by Scott C. Thomas, Orange County Criminal Law Attorney
Starting at the end of 2013, the LAPD rolled out a new mouth swab roadside drug testing kit for use at DUI checkpoints. Well, for 2014, patrol officers now carry these kits as part of their standard issued equipment, so we will undoubtedly see their use rise. Below is what you MUST know about these Roadside Drug Tests, what you need to know and your legal rights.
First, these kits test for seven different drugs, but will inevitably be used most on drivers suspected of driving while under the influence of marijuana. There is no legal requirement that a driver submit to such a test. Nowhere is it codified that a driver must submit to an oral swab drug test if they are suspected of DUI for drugs. However, that will not stop officers from using intimidation, coercion or outright misrepresentations to try and steer drivers to consent to these tests.
At this point, it’s critical to make an important distinction: oral roadside drug tests are different than the breath or blood sample you are required to give, post DUI arrest. Failure to give a breath or blood sample, post DUI arrest, can result in a one-year license suspension, under California’s implied consent law, in addition to potential DUI charges. However, with regard to these oral swab drug tests, you have the right to refuse them and face no penalty, despite what officers in the field may threaten.
Given the rise in number of medical marijuana patients and collectives in the state, there are many drivers on the road who are medicated; it is only a matter of time until the legislature acts to address this trend and makes these roadside drug tests mandatory. However, for the time being, know your rights and recognize that you do have the right to refuse oral swab roadside drug tests without consequence.
A criminal arrest, especially on felony charges can turn a life upsidedown, ruin a reputation, and put the defendant at serious risk for long-range punishments.
A local police or state patrol stop for suspicion of drunk driving shouldn’t be the end of the world for anyone — whether it’s your first offense or your third.
A guilty verdict in a criminal trial for methamphetamine manufacture or heroin trafficking can put you in prison for years.
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