Recent statistics suggest that drug-related crime is slightly higher in Taunton than in the average US city. If you’ve recently unwillingly become a part of that statistic, then it’s important to choose your next steps carefully.
After a drug-related arrest in Taunton, you’ll likely get taken and booked into jail. You’re expected to enter into an initial plea during a bail hearing with a judge, and you might even endure a questioning session with the police.
If you don’t utilize your right and hire a Taunton drug crimes lawyer, then you might make some missteps during this initial process. To protect yourself and increase your odds of a more favorable legal outcome, you’ll want to hire the very best attorney as soon as possible after an arrest.
Learn more about how our firm can help you navigate a drug charge below.
Drug Laws in Taunton, MA: What You Need to Know
Per federal law, certain substances are not to be in the hands of the general public without a specific prescription because of their believed danger to the public. These substances include (but are not limited to):
- LSD
- Heroin
- Ecstasy
- Amphetamine
- Methamphetamine
- Fentanyl
- Ketamine
Some substances are okay to possess under certain circumstances. For instance, if you have a valid prescription from a doctor, then you’re allowed to possess it.
Drug Possession
If the authorities discover that you’re in possession of a controlled substance, then you could face drug possession charges. The severity of the offense will depend on the type of substance you’re in possession of, how much you were caught with, and any other circumstances. In general, you’ll face a more severe penalty for more serious drugs like heroin or when you have a lot of the substance.
Since this is one of the least severe crimes, you’ll likely only get sentenced to a year or less in prison and fines of up to $1,000.
Distribution of a Controlled Substance
If you have a large amount of a controlled substance, then the police might suspect that you’re attempting to sell or distribute the substance. If that’s the case, then you’re facing some serious charges. In Massachusetts, distribution or possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance is considered a felony offense.
You could also get charged with this crime if police catch you with a controlled substance, large amounts of cash, drug paraphernalia, scales, Ziploc bags, or other incriminating items that might suggest you were planning to sell the substance.
Drug Manufacturing
One of the most severe criminal offenses you could face is drug manufacturing. You could face this type of charge if you’re creating a controlled substance. For instance, if you’re cooking up homemade methamphetamine or converting cocaine to crack, then you could face drug manufacturing charges. What’s more, your property could get seized, too.
If convicted, then you could face up to 10 years in prison.
Driving Under the Influence
Most Americans know they can get charged with a DUI for drinking alcohol, but this crime also applies to driving under the influence of any controlled substance. If police suspect you’ve consumed marijuana, a prescription drug, or any other type of drug, then you could get arrested, especially if you fail a field sobriety test.
Is Marijuana Legal in Taunton?
One of the major questions these days is around the legality of marijuana and marijuana products. While marijuana is still considered a controlled substance under federal law, hemp is no longer considered one. What’s more, Massachusetts law does allow for a medical marijuana and medical marijuana-infused product exception for laboratories.
With that in mind, it’s unlikely that you’ll get charged with possession of marijuana if you have a medical exemption. That doesn’t mean you couldn’t be charged with another type of drug crime, though, like driving under the influence or consuming medical marijuana in a public place.
Why You Should Hire a Taunton Drug Crimes Attorney
In most cases, a drug charge will lead to an immediate arrest. It can also lead to an automatic seizure of your property. For instance, if police believe the cash you had on you came from selling controlled substances, then they are legally authorized to seize it.
You’ll get booked into jail and you may even get questioned by police. If you don’t hire a lawyer, then you run the risk of accidentally incriminating yourself or limiting your future options. The best course of action is to instead request a lawyer as soon as possible after booking. If you have to, then use your one phone call to secure a meeting with a drug crime attorney. If you don’t have the money to hire an attorney, then the next best option is to ask for state-appointed, free representation.
Why You Should Choose Our Firm
The drug crime attorneys at our firm all have extensive experience representing Massachusetts residents accused of various drug crimes. Our lawyers have a good reputation in our local courtrooms, and we also know exactly what it takes to secure a favorable outcome for our clients.
Since we understand that your potential freedom is at risk, we will work tirelessly to secure evidence in favor of your arguments, research different legal options available in your situation, and fight for a good legal outcome.
If you need more reasons to choose our firm, then consider taking a look at our past client reviews. We strive to ensure that our clients feel heard, respected, and represented to the fullest degree in court.
Are You Ready to Hire a Taunton Drug Crimes Attorney?
The advantages of hiring a Taunton drug crimes lawyer to represent you after an arrest are so substantial and apparent that it’s encoded as a right for all individuals accused of crimes in the United States. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that you can navigate your drug charge without the help of a quality lawyer.
Are you currently looking for the very best legal representation after your arrest? Fill out our online form now to request a consultation and discuss your situation in more detail with one of our top-tier drug crime defense attorneys.
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