Drug Crime: What Do You Need To Know?
Drug Crime Can Result In Harsh Penalties
It is crucial to understand the specific charges against you and the possible defences that may be available. If you are charged with a drug crime. Protecting your rights and fighting for a good outcome in your case can be easier with the assistance of an experienced drug criminal defence lawyer. Drug offences are serious and can result in harsh punishments such as prison time and heavy fines. Understanding the precise charges against you and your viable defences is the best way to prevent a conviction for drug offences. A skilled criminal defence lawyer may assist you in defending your rights and pursuing a favourable resolution in your case.
What Are Drug Crimes?
From simple possession of a restricted narcotic to drug trafficking, drug crimes cover a wide spectrum of offences. Drug offences can be charged as either misdemeanours or felonies, depending on the circumstances.
Possession Of A Controlled Substance
Possession of a controlled substance is the most common type of drug crime. To be convicted, the prosecutor must prove that you knew the substance was a drug and intended to use it. Possession of a small number of drugs may be charged as a misdemeanour, while possession of a large amount may be charged as a felony.
Possession With Intent To Sell
Possession of a controlled substance with the intent to sell is a more serious offence than simple possession. The prosecutor must establish proof that you intended to sell the drugs, and they may use factors such as the number of drugs found in your possession and the presence of packaging materials to infer your intent. Possession with intent to sell is typically charged as a felony.
Trafficking
The most serious sort of drug crime is drug trafficking. It entails the production, distribution, or sale of illegal substances. Drug trafficking is a federal violation that carries harsh penalties such as significant jail sentences and fines.
Penalties For Drug Crimes
The penalties for drug crimes depend on the specific offence and the severity of the charge. Misdemeanour drug crimes typically carry a sentence of up to one year in jail, while felony drug crimes can result in a prison sentence of five years or more. In some cases, mandatory minimum sentencing guidelines may apply, which means that the judge must impose a minimum sentence if you are convicted.
Possible Defences Against Drug Crimes
Some possible defences can be raised in a drug crime case. Some of the most common include:
-The drugs were for personal use and not for sale
-The police conducted an illegal search and seizure
-You were unaware that the substance was drugged
-You were entrapped by law enforcement
Experienced Criminal Defence Attorney
It is crucial to speak with an experienced criminal defence attorney if you have been charged with a drug offence. An attorney can look into the details of your case and advise you on the best defence approach.
Drug Offences Can Be Prosecuted At Both The State And Federal Levels
If you have been charged with a drug crime, it is critical that you understand the charges against you and the various defences. A skilled criminal defence lawyer can assist you in defending your rights and obtaining a favourable conclusion in your case.
The Severity Of The Charge And The Individual Offence Determine The Punishment For Drug Offences
Misdemeanour drug crimes typically carry a sentence of up to one year in jail, while felony drug crimes can result in a prison sentence of five years or more. In some cases, mandatory minimum sentencing guidelines may apply, which means that the judge must impose a minimum sentence if you are convicted.
Some of the possible defences that can be raised in a drug crime case include:
-The drugs were for personal use and not for sale
-The police conducted an illegal search and seizure
-You were unaware that the substance was drugged
-You were entrapped by law enforcement.
If you’ve been charged with a drug offence, don’t panic. You should speak with an expert criminal defense lawyer right away. An attorney can look into the details of your case and advise you on the best defence approach.
