Anyone who faces drug charges requires the assistance of a good criminal defense attorney, most especially since penalties for these cases tend to be very high.
There are different kinds of charges which can be filed against a person when it comes to the use of illegal drugs as well as controlled substances. Drug convictions often involve fines, jail time, probation or combination of any or all these penalties.
It doesn’t matter if the defendant is innocent or guilty of the charges because they will still need someone who will protect their rights. Dependable drug possession lawyers can secure that best possible outcome for their clients.
Types of Illegal Substances
Illegal substances can include marijuana, cocaine, heroin, ecstasy and methamphetamines. It is also illegal to use or be in possession of drugs that are limited in quantity and use by prescription. When someone has the prescription medications of another person, he or she can be charged with a crime. Falsifying prescription medication or forging a prescription are also considered as grounds for drug charges.
Possession of Drugs
Persons who have been allegedly found to have illegal drugs might be charged with possession. There are differences in the range of penalties which will depend on the state where it took place. A person could be charged with possession when he or she has or uses an illegal drug. The amount of drub that a person allegedly has in his possession will also affect the kind of charges that will be filed. There are numerous limit amounts for different substances types. Most of the time, when a person possesses more than they can possibly use for themselves within a short time frame they will be charged with possession with intent to distribute. It is a higher charge that comes with higher penalties and more will be at stake when the person has been convicted.
Manufacture of Drugs or Illegal Substances
As far as the law is concerned, there is significant difference between possession of illegal substances and manufacturing or making them. For instance, someone who set up a methamphetamine lab in his garage is going to face high penalty fines and longer jail time when convicted than a person with no equipment and just sufficient amount of substance for a single hit.
Driving Under the Influence of Drugs
In most states, driving under the influence or DUI of illegal substances will be subjected to similar laws as driving under the influence of alcohol. However, when there is no positive blood test conducted really close to the time a person was driving, it might be a bit hard for a prosecutor to get a conviction on such charges. More often, these are accompanied by a minimum of another traffic charge like reckless driving, failure to yield the right of way, running a red light or speeding. Depending on the seriousness of these other charges as well as the situation involved, a criminal defense lawyer rockville md or traffic attorney could get have these charges dropped all at once.