4 Charges A Drug Defense Attorney Fights

Whether one ounce or twenty, if you have been charged with possession, trafficking, or another controlled substance-related crime, it is in your best interest to contact a drug defense attorney immediately. Many of these crimes are classified as felonies, which can result in years behind bars as well as a permanent stain on your record. Even first time offenders arrested for using controlled substances are receiving harsher penalties in most states. Here are four of the most common charges related to illegal substances. 

Possession:
Out of all categories of illegal substance-related crimes, possession for personal use has the most lenient sentencing, especially for first time offenders. However, recently several states have been cracking down on users especially those found with methamphetamines due to their increasing prevalence. People convicted of possession are more likely to serve time in an addiction rehabilitation program combined with fines and probation. Repeat offenders can face prison time, and of course the type and amount of substance found on the person is one of the main determiners during sentencing. 

Possession for Sale:
If a large amount of illegal substances were found on your person or property, you may be charged with possession for sale. Whether you are a dealer or not won't matter to the arresting officers. The amount varies by state and can be as little as a few ounces. It is considered a felony and if convicted, jail time will follow. In some areas, certain substances carry more severe sentencing such as methamphetamine, which can lead to a minimum of five years of prison. Discovery of distribution paraphernalia such as scales and baggies, or large quantities of cash will further strengthen the case against the accused. 

Distribution:
Sentencing for sales of illegal substances is more severe than possession. This is in part due to the way in which most perpetrators get caught, which is often selling to an undercover police officer. Police in these cases may have been tipped off or spent time monitoring the individual's activities. While a difficult case, a drug defense attorney has a number of arguments including coercion by the officer to sell the substances. 

Manufacturing:
Although not as common a charge as possession or distribution, manufacturing illegal substances still results in strict consequences such as probation, jail time, fines, and community service. States will vary greatly in terms of legal definitions such as the amount of chemicals or illegal plants in the possession of the individual, the location of the crime, and other associated paraphernalia required to manufacture the products. 

While it is exceedingly rare to receive the maximum punishment, especially for a first time conviction, repeat offenders and those who were charged with committing simultaneous crimes will face much stricter consequences. Misdemeanors or felonies on your criminal record can result in far-reaching consequences including difficulty-finding work, renting an apartment, and inability to secure a loan. Just because you've been arrested and charged; however, doesn't mean that your case is over. Contact a drug defense attorney to ensure you receive the proper legal guidance.