If you have been charged with a drug crime in New Bedford, it is important to seek the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney. Drug crimes are serious offenses that can result in jail time, probation, and a criminal record. An experienced attorney will know how to build a strong defense and protect your rights.
Drug crimes can be classified as either felonies or misdemeanors. The severity of the offense will determine which category it falls into. A felony drug crime is more serious and can result in a prison sentence, while a misdemeanor drug crime is less serious and typically results in probation.
If you have been charged with a drug crime, the first step is to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney. Your attorney will review the charges against you and work with you to develop a strong defense. Contact a New Bedford drug crimes lawyer at the Law Offices of Gerald J. Noonan today to schedule a free case consultation.
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Different Types of Drug Crimes and the Consequences of a Conviction
The first thing you should understand after being arrested for a drug crime is the charge against you. The precise charges you’re facing will have a big impact on how much your bail is, the potential fines you may face, and how you can defend yourself.
There are several different categories of drug offenses. Under federal law, you could get charged with:
- Possession
- Possession with the intent to sell
- Drug trafficking
- Drug manufacturing
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
Below, we’ll describe each offense in more detail and give you an overview of the types of penalties to expect if you get convicted.
Possession of a Controlled Substance
Possession of a controlled substance is the most basic and least severe type of drug charge you may face. It’s prohibited under federal law to have a number of chemicals, and the sort of substances you’re discovered with will have a significant impact on your penalty potential. Your criminal record will also influence the penalties you receive.
In Massachusetts, possession charges are generally considered a misdemeanor. That implies you may face up to one year in prison and up to $1,000 in fines. If you’re carrying heroin or fentanyl, your charges may be enhanced. These drugs come with a first-time punishment of two years in jail and fines of up to $2,000 if you’re caught with less than 18 grams.
If it is your second time being convicted of a drug crime, you will face more severe penalties, which may include up to five years in prison and up to $5,000 in fines.
Possession of a Controlled Substance With the Intent to Sell
Possession of a controlled substance with the intention to sell is another typical sort of drug charge. If you have a large amount of the drug, have a lot of money, or are in possession of other incriminating items, the police may accuse you of this kind of offense. A scale, zip-loc bags, or accouterments are all examples of incriminating evidence.
Selling or distributing drugs is a serious crime in the United States that comes with a hefty sentence of two to ten years in prison and fines up to $10,000. If you get charged with this crime for the second time, you could face up to 15 years in jail and fines of up to $25,000. If you’re accused of this offense near a school, expect your sentence to be upgraded.
Drug Trafficking
Drug trafficking is a similar offense to possession with the intent to sell. It’s typically prosecuted when law enforcement has evidence that the suspect is selling, importing, or transporting a large amount of illegal drugs.
Drug trafficking may happen within one state or across state lines. Either way, drug trafficking is a very serious charge. A conviction could result in up to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $100,000.
Manufacturing a Controlled Substance
It is unlawful to produce or manufacture a controlled substance. You may be charged with manufacturing a controlled substance if you were producing anything, even if it was as simple as cooking a small amount of methamphetamine or making crack cocaine. Like drug trafficking, this criminal act has the same penalties.
How to Defend Yourself Against Drug Charges
If you’ve been accused of a drug crime, you should take it very seriously. You will need to talk to a lawyer as soon as possible and decide on the best course of action for your defense. Every case is different, and there are many defenses that may be available to you depending on the circumstances. Some examples include:
- The police conducted an illegal search and seizure
- You were not in possession of the drugs
- Mistake of fact (the substance isn’t a controlled substance)
- You were entrapped by the police
- Improper police stop
- The drugs were for personal use and not for sale
- You have a valid prescription for the drugs
- Medical marijuana exemption
If you’re facing drug charges, don’t try to defend yourself without a lawyer. Contact the Law Offices of Gerald J. Noonan today for a free case consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
Is Hiring a New Bedford Drug Crimes Attorney Really Necessary?
Many people facing drug charges think they can represent themselves or that they don’t need an attorney because they’ve only been charged with a misdemeanor. This couldn’t be further from the truth. If you’ve been charged with any type of drug offense, it’s important to have an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side.
An experienced attorney will know how to navigate the criminal justice system, build a strong defense, and protect your rights. If you try to represent yourself, you’re at a serious disadvantage. The prosecutor will take advantage of you, and you could end up with a much harsher sentence than necessary.
Don’t take chances with your future. If you’ve been charged with a drug crime, contact the Law Offices of Gerald J. Noonan today for a free case consultation. We’ll review your case and help you understand your legal options. Let us put our experience to work for you.
Are You Ready to Hire a New Bedford Drug Crimes Lawyer?
Have you or a loved one been charged with drug abuse in New Bedford? While public opinion about drugs has evolved dramatically over the past few decades, the law has mostly remained steadfast. Drug crimes will still be taken very seriously in court. As a result, it’s important to hire the finest possible New Bedford drug crime attorney to help you throughout your case.
If you are facing drug charges and are looking for legal counsel, The Law Offices of Gerald J. Noonan is here to help. Our attorneys have years of experience representing New Bedford residents who have been accused of various drug charges. We will work tirelessly on your behalf to ensure that you receive the best possible outcome in your case. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We look forward to speaking with you soon.
