Recreational Marijuana Approved in Washington State

As of December 6, 2012 possession of one ounce or less of marijuana for those over the age of 21 is now legal in Washington State. Voters approved what is known as Initiative 502 for the recreational use of cannabis, though federal law still bans it. The new law does not affect the current Washington laws regarding the use of medical marijuana. Currently, it is still against the law to grow, buy, or sell marijuana though the state's Liquor Control Board will set up licensing regulations for these actions. Their aim in this endeavor will be to put an end to black market and underground marijuana sales and distributions throughout the state.

One aspect of the new law concerns the issue of DUI impaired driving. Per the new law, those found with 5 nanograms per millimeter of THC in their blood will be considered to be legally impaired. THC is the active ingredient in marijuana which has a psychological and neurological effect on the body. Marijuana activists in the state consider this to be a minute amount which will turn many of them into DUI violators should they need to get behind the wheel. According to the legislators who created the new law, however, the THC legal limit is not an arbitrary number but based on detailed and current scientific evidence. Critics of the new THC limits assert that the current number of 5 nanograms does not take into account body size, weight, and metabolism. Law enforcement officials in the state maintain that any impairment at all while driving should not be tolerated.

Charged with DUI in Lynnwood, Washington?

Washington state laws remain tough on drunk and drug-impaired driving. That is why, if you have been arrested and charged with DUI, your first order of business should be to consult with a skilled DUI attorney. In and around the Lynwood area, one attorney has a 93 percent reduction or dismissal of first offense DUI charges and that is Jonathon Dichter. His firm, the Dichter Law Office, PLLC serves the counties of Snohomish, King, and surrounding areas.

The Dichter Law Office has achieved the highest rating from Avvo, which is a 10.0 rating of Superb. Mr. Dichter has also been recognized with the Clients Choice 2012 award by Avvo for his outstanding track record in DUI defense. Get the effective legal help you need during the difficult time following any type of Washington State DUI arrest. Contact the firm to discuss your case as soon as possible; this action can make a world of difference in your future.