When Prescription Drug Use Results In Legal Issues
Many individuals in Richmond and throughout Virginia take medication legally prescribed by their physicians for various conditions. Assuming your doctor knows your medical history and carefully researches any issues, using that medication as directed is likely fine. That said, many of these substances come with a host of side effects which are carefully documented (in small print) on the information sheets provided by pharmacies. Unfortunately, most people fail to review that paperwork and assume they can continue with life as usual.
Imagine their surprise when they are pulled off the road by a Virginia police officer, given a sobriety test, and ultimately charged with driving under the influence (DUI).
According to Virginia law, driving under the influence of any drug (even those prescribed by your doctor) that impairs your ability to safely operate your car is a crime. Penalties for conviction of this crime are serious and could impact your life.
Your best course of action is to engage legal representation as soon as possible. Now is not the time to roll the dice and try to manage your situation yourself.
Cody Villalon, a Richmond DUI attorney, appreciates your position. He has a long history of providing compassionate and quality criminal defense services to many in similar situations. Contact him today at 804.316.0765 to schedule your free consultation. You want to engage professional representation as soon as possible to protect your well-being.
Why Choose Cody Villalon to Defend You
He Knows How to Build a Strong Defense Against Prescription Drug DUI Charges
Being charged with a prescription drug DUI was likely a surprise to you. To be certain, most people are unaware of the side effects of their medications and don’t realize that they can actually face criminal charges for their driving actions when taking prescribed medication. Unfortunately, doing just that is a crime with major consequences.
In times like this, engaging the representation of an experienced Richmond DUI attorney is critical. What you don’t know about defending yourself far outweighs what you do. You must take active steps to protect yourself and preserve your future. Cody Villalon is the first call for many in similar situations. Consider why so many in Virginia reach out to him in times of trouble.
First, of course, is his experience. For more than ten years, Mr. Villalon has been a fixture in the Richmond community providing criminal defense services. His knowledge of prescription DUI laws is extensive, and his relationships with local attorneys, prosecutors, and judges are invaluable.
Next is his approach to service. As a sole practitioner, he carefully manages his client load and is committed to personally handling each case. When you work with Cody Villalon, you get Cody Villalon and all of his experience.
He is known for his non-judgmental and compassionate approach to communicating. The best people make mistakes and deserve to be treated with respect at all times. His reputation is outstanding.
Finally, Mr. Villalon is committed to his clients. Protecting their rights and futures is his ultimate goal, and he works tirelessly in pursuit of it. Minimizing the impact of this event on your life and your family is incredibly important to him.
When you need a criminal defense attorney in Richmond to defend you against prescription drug DUI charges, Cody Villalon is there for you. Contact him today and learn how he would approach your case.
Building a Prescription Drug DUI Defense Is a Complex Process
Cody Villalon Handles Everything for You
The time and knowledge necessary to effectively defend you from prescription drug DUI charges is considerable. There is a great deal to accomplish, and many of the actions must be managed simultaneously.
Cody Villalon knows how to do this. He takes the time necessary to conduct each step thoroughly, always keeping you apprised of his progress as well as his communication with the prosecutors. As his client, you can expect him to:
- Investigate: Not only will Mr. Villalon investigate the charges against you, he will also review your interactions with law enforcement addressing any violations of your rights during the traffic stop and arrest.
- Review: DUIs for prescription medication entail a great deal of paperwork, including police reports, lab results, sobriety tests, and medical records. Mr. Villalon will review them all. In cases involving witnesses, he conducts interviews personally. He knows what to ask to gain valuable information.
- File: The amount of paperwork associated with DUI defenses is overwhelming. You can rely on Mr. Villalon to complete any necessary forms and file them in a timely fashion.
- Communicate: Interaction both with you and the prosecution is critical. If the situation necessitates, he will skillfully negotiate with the prosecution, but will always share their responses with you. This is your life, and you have the right to decide what to accept or reject. Additionally, he is always available to answer your questions and address important concerns.
- Develop: Among his most important responsibilities is building a quality defense designed to minimize the impact of this event on your life. He knows how to leverage information he has uncovered on your behalf, looking to protect you both now and in the long term.
- Represent: Settling cases like this out of court is preferable, and Mr. Villalon is often successful in this regard. That said, he won’t hesitate to provide you a strong defense, in court if need be.
Prescription drug DUI cases are involved. This is not the time to defend yourself. Your life is worth protecting, and Cody Villalon is ready to do just that.
Concerns Are Common
Cody Villalon Answers Some Frequently Asked Questions
If you are facing prescription DUI charges, having questions is common. You are likely in an unfamiliar position with a great deal at stake. Below are some of the concerns raised most often along with Mr. Villalon’s responses.
Can I be charged with a DUI if my physician prescribes my medication?
Yes, you can be charged with a DUI If your driving is impacted by any substance, legal or illegal. Your prescription DUI attorney can explain the law to you.
What types of medication can impact my driving and put me at risk of getting a DUI?
The list is long. Substances that could cause impairment include but are not limited to painkillers, sleep aids, muscle relaxants, antidepressants, and barbiturates. In all cases, you should refer to the documentation provided by your pharmacy before operating a motor vehicle and reach out to an experienced criminal defense attorney if you are facing charges.
How would a police officer be able to tell if I was impaired?
After you are pulled over, the officer may subject you to field sobriety tests. In addition, they would pay attention to your behavior noting problems like coordination issues and slurring, among others. If arrested, the results of a drug test can show the level of medication in your system. If your case goes to trial, the arresting officer would likely be called to testify. Your prescription DUI defense attorney can explain this further to you.
Cody Villalon can answer questions specific to your situation when you schedule a free consultation.
Prescription DUI Charges in Richmond Are Serious
Be Proactive and Contact Cody Villalon Immediately
If you are arrested for driving under the influence of prescription drugs, your first action should be to contact Cody Villalon at 804.316.0765 In the meantime, do not speak with anyone; you may say something could negatively impact your case.
The charges you are facing are serious, and the associated penalties may include fines, license suspension, and even jail time. These can impact your ability to get to and from work and care for your family. You want to do everything in your power to safeguard your future; Cody Villalon can help.
Serious situations call for immediate action and professional assistance. Be proactive in response to your arrest and charges; engage professional representation as soon as possible.
DEFENSE ATTORNEY CODY VILLALON
Cody Villalon is a criminal defense attorney in Richmond, VA representing clients accused of violent offenses and DUIs, and he specializes in serious criminal charges. He possesses more than 10 years of legal experience, has defended more than 1,000 cases, and has spent more than 5,000 hours in court. He is highly professional and well-respected by prosecutors and judges. [ Attorney Bio ]
