Driving whilst under the influence of a drug is illegal in Queensland and this includes synthetic drugs.
What are synthetic drugs?
Synthetic drugs are designed to mimic the effects of regular drugs, alter your mind, and therefore affect your ability to drive in the same way.
There is currently a blanket ban in Queensland on the possession and/or sale of synthetic drugs or any substance that is designed to have a psychoactive effect other than alcohol.
Why can’t you drive under the influence of synthetic drugs?
Currently Queensland police are able to take swabs at the roadside of a person’s salvia to see whether illegal drugs have been consumed. This drug test however only tests for marijuana, methamphetamines and MDMA. It is likely that a person who consumed a synthetic drug would pass this test.
If you are drug tested and pass the Police, if they reasonably believe you are affected by drugs they are still able to order you to undergo a blood test. If you refuse you may be charged with failing to provide a specimen and drug driving. Failing to provide a specimen charge will result in a more severe penalty than a high reading.
What is the penalty?
One major issue with being charged with drug driving with a synthetic drug in your system is that you will be considered to be driving under the influence this means that;
- You face a minimum of 6 months disqualification of your licence
- You cannot apply for a work licence
- A conviction being recorded may affect your ability to easily travel to another country especially the USA and Canada.
One bizarre outcome of the legislation is that often people caught by the salvia test with MDMA, Marijuana or methamphetamines can be charged not with driving under the influence but with driving with a relevant drug in the system and if that is done a person faces a minimum of 1 month disqualification and they can apply for a work licence.
If you have a drug driving charge and need a great drug driving lawyer then please contact us for more information or visit our drug driving page for more information.
Why should I engage Clarity Law?
Quite frankly we care about getting the right outcome for our clients and helping them through one of the most difficult times in their lives.
In the face of a traffic charge, selecting the right legal representation is paramount, and Clarity Law offers a unique blend of proficiency and empathy that sets us apart. Our firm is dedicated to providing clarity in the often complex world of traffic law. We believe that every client deserves a clear understanding of their rights and the legal process they're navigating.
Our experienced team of lawyers approaches each case with a commitment to open communication, ensuring you're informed every step of the way. With a proven track record of securing favourable outcomes, we have the expertise to navigate even the most intricate legal challenges.
At Clarity Law, we strive not only to be your staunch advocates but also to provide a supportive, understanding environment during this trying time. Choosing Clarity Law means choosing a team that will tirelessly work to protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome for your case.
You can read more about our founder, Steven Brough’s, journey to starting Clarity Law by clicking here.
How do I get more information or engage you to act for me?
If you want to engage us or just need further information or advice then you can either;
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We are a no pressure law firm, we are happy to provide free initial information to assist you. If you want to engage us then great, we will give you a fixed price for our services so you will know with certainty what we will cost. All the money goes into a trust account monitored by the Queensland Law Society and cannot be taken out without your permission.
If you don’t engage us that fine too, at least you will have more information on the charge and its consequences.
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Need more information?
We have a range of articles on our traffic law blog. Some of the most recent have included:
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Why You Should Never Represent Yourself in Court for a traffic matter
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What Happens After Police Have Charged Me with a Traffic Offence?
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Disqualification vs Suspension, what is the difference in Queensland?
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Will I get a criminal conviction for a drink driving charge?
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