The environment surrounding drug crimes and enforcement has been something of a volatile one in recent years. Between the cultural shifts in how people think about drugs like marijuana and claims of biased, overzealous enforcement efforts, the debate about drug laws is full of gray areas.
However, the fact is that drug possession, distribution and trafficking are all crimes for which a person can be convicted. One thing that people can be sure of is if they are convicted of a drug crime, the penalties they are facing can be harsh and ruinous.
Let’s imagine a scenario where you are charged with possession of cocaine. It’s not enough of an amount to be escalated to trafficking, but you are still arrested and charged with a criminal offense.
You might think that you’ll get a slap on the wrist or a short period of probation. However, there is the potential that the sentence handed down could be much more devastating than you anticipate.
For example, your driver’s license could be suspended. Without a license, everyday errands can become hours-long endeavors and tedious; you may not be able to get to and from work easily; your ability to keep up with child custody and visitation requirements can suffer.
Further, the fines you may be required to pay could lead to or exacerbate financial woes; any jail time that is ordered, no matter how short, can take you away from your job, your family and your life. All of this can compound to make life much harder and more stressful.
Considering all that is at stake, it is crucial that you understand your right to legal representation if you are facing drug charges. Whether you realize it or not, your future can be in jeopardy, but there are ways to protect yourself. Our attorneys can help you understand your options for defending against these allegations and seeking possible dismissal or reduction of charges. To learn more about our firm’s background and how we have helped others in this difficult situation, please visit our website.