Looking for a drug charges lawyer near me? Are you unsure about your next move after being charged with drug possession?
Drug charges can be tricky. Make the wrong move and suddenly your possession charge becomes something way more serious. When it comes to the legal system, you should never gamble with your future.
Here’s what you should know…
An arrest isn’t the end of the world. However, what you do next can determine your future for many years to come. One of the best steps you can take after getting charged is hiring a professional attorney.
In this article
- Why Drug Possession Charges Are So Serious
- The Real Cost of Representing Yourself
- When To Work With A Professional Lawyer
- How Having A Lawyer Can Benefit Your Case
Why Drug Possession Charges Are So Serious
Drug charges can differ depending on where you live and what drug you were caught with.
Some states make certain drugs misdemeanors while other states will throw the book at you for the same crime. Factors like the drug you were caught with, amounts, and prior convictions are all taken into consideration when you are charged.
However, there is one thing that does not change…
Drug possession is serious business. In 2024 there were over 831,000 drug related arrests across the country. That’s enough arrests to know that if you get caught with drugs you will face jail time, fines, and a criminal record.
But wait… it doesn’t stop there.
More than 85% of these arrests are for possession only. Not selling. Not cultivating. Possession only. This means that over 700,000 people get arrested every year for simply having drugs.
Possession can land you in jail for…
- Thousands of dollars in fines.
- Mandatory jail time varies depending on what you were caught with.
- Probation that can last years.
- A criminal record that will follow you around for the rest of your life.
This is why hiring a drug possession defense lawyer is extremely beneficial. A good lawyer will know drug charges inside and out. They know how to defend clients like you and get you the best outcome possible.
Pretty important right?
The Real Cost of Representing Yourself
Think you can get away with representing yourself? Think again.
The legal system is complicated for a reason. The district attorney’s office has offices full of prosecutors who went to law school. If you don’t have a lawyer, you’re heading into battle with an enemy who knows all of the rules.
Here are some facts…
Research shows that defendants who do not have quality representation typically receive harsher punishments. Having a bad lawyer is better than having no lawyer. But if you can afford a qualified lawyer, you can decrease your chance of incarceration by dozens, if not hundreds, of months. (University of Chicago Law Review)
You’ll be on your own against…
- Pleading bargains
- Legal jargon you don’t understand
- Technical documents that must be memorized
- Prosecution that does this every day
Remember when we said that the system is complex on purpose? All parts of the law are designed to benefit the prosecution. You, the defendant, will not understand what’s going on if you don’t have someone in your corner who does.
When To Work With A Professional Lawyer
Alright, you got me. When should you really hire a lawyer?
As soon as possible.
If you are charged with a drug crime, time is not your friend. Gathering evidence, speaking to witnesses, and filing legal motions takes time. You don’t want to wait until the last minute only to find out you missed your opportunity to suppress evidence.
You should always work with a lawyer when…
- If you’re facing felony charges. Felonies can land you in prison for a very long time. Don’t risk your future.
- You have prior convictions. These offences are taken more seriously when you already have a criminal record.
- The evidence is circumstantial. Was the search unlawful? Is there enough evidence to prove you were in possession?
- You can lose time in jail. If jail is a possibility, you need to fight with everything you have.
Drug charges aren’t a joke. You should never treat your legal troubles lightly.
How Having A Lawyer Can Benefit Your Case
Attorneys do more than show up to court and speak on your behalf.
Lawyers get you the best outcome possible. Not only that, but they can help you understand your charges and navigate the court system.
Here’s what they do…
Defense lawyers look at every detail of your case. They help you understand your options and develop a strategy that will lead you to success.
Your attorney will also negotiate with the prosecutors. A lot of drug cases aren’t actually handled in court. Instead, lawyers will negotiate with the prosecutors to reach a plea deal. A good plea deal could mean no jail time and reduced charges.
Another one of their jobs is to make sure your rights were not violated. Did the officers search your property without a warrant? Did they question you without reading your Miranda rights? If so, your lawyer can fight to get this evidence dismissed.
They’ll keep you updated on anything you don’t understand. The legal system is weird and complex. Someone without legal education will struggle to understand the process. Your attorney should guide you through the process and keep you informed every step of the way.
Give Yourself The Best Chance
The bottom line is this; don’t face drug charges alone.
Legal counsel can mean the difference between prison and probation. Don’t lose your future over poor decisions. When you face drug charges, you need a drug possession lawyer on your side that knows how to navigate drug charges.
Whatever you do, don’t try to go it alone. Learn from the mistakes of others and hire an attorney that can defend you against drug charges.
Do you need a lawyer for drug charges? If you answer yes to any of these questions, it’s time to call a lawyer and speak to someone about your legal situation.
You only get one opportunity to make a first impression. Don’t go to court without professional legal representation.
