Drug Charges and You: 3 Things You Need to Know

Facing drug charges can be a very difficult experience. If you've been accused of a crime, you might be feeling overwhelmed or confused by the charges presented against you. No matter what type of drug offense you're facing, there are several things you need to know.

No one wakes up expecting to face drug charges. Unfortunately, for many Americans, that's exactly what happens. Whether you were intentionally selling, buying, or transporting drugs, or you were simply caught in the wrong place at the wrong time, facing this type of offense can be a devastating experience. Each year, there are approximately 1.6 million arrests for drug-related offenses. This can include trafficking, selling, or buying drugs. It's important to understand that whether or not you have a prior conviction or arrest on your record, you may face jail time or fines. Here's what you need to know.

1. The type of drug matters

When you're facing drug charges, understand that if you were caught with different types of drugs, you may face different penalties. The specific penalties you'll face will vary based on the type of drug you have, the quantity you have, and whether you intended to sell or distribute the substance. In addition to illegal substances, such as marijuana and heroine, it's important to note that even having prescription drugs can land you a drug charge if you do not have a valid prescription. Additionally, if you have physical drug paraphernalia on your person or at your home, you may face charges for that. This can include jail time, as well as a fine.

2. You might face federal charges

While drug charges may be handled locally, keep in mind that since drug possession is a federal offense, it may be federally prosecuted at any time. If the person who arrested you is a federal agent or if you committed a drug-related crime on federal property, for example, you may face federal prosecution. This is an important distinction. Federal charges for drugs are different than state charges. They are typically much harsher and longer-lasting than local charges.

3. Your attorney can help

No matter what type of drug charge you're facing, it's important to contact an attorney as soon as possible. Make sure you provide your attorney with honest, factual information. Your attorney wants to help you succeed, but you need to be straightforward with them. They can't help you if they don't know all of the facts. Understand that your attorney may use different defense tactics to try to get your sentence reduced or dropped. Providing them with specific information, especially about the details of your arrest, will be helpful. If the arresting officers obtained information illegally that led to your arrest, for example, it may be possible to have your charges dropped.

When you're facing drug charges, reach out to a criminal defense attorney today who can assist you in moving forward. You deserve accurate representation in order to have the best possible outcome from your case.