Drug Crimes:

There are a variety of offenses that fall under the category of “Drug Crimes.” These crimes range from simple possession of a small amount of marijuana, to major trafficking offenses involving significant mandatory minimum penalties. In West Chester and the rest of Chester County, law enforcement is carrying out their mission of arresting and prosecuting those who possess and/or sell controlled substances. If you are arrested for either possession or distribution of a controlled substance, then you need to speak with the right lawyer who will carefully review the facts of your case. A skillful, knowledgeable attorney can detect any weaknesses in the State’s case against you and discover any defenses that you have to the charges that you face.

Even when the offense involved is relatively minor, such as possession of a small amount of marijuana, the potential punishment can be significant. Even the most minor of drug offenses can carry up to 1 year in prison and a $5,000 fine. Unbeknownst to most people, all misdemeanor possession charges in Pennsylvania carry a mandatory 6 month license suspension. One of the biggest mistakes that a Defendant can make when facing a Drug charge is to attend the Preliminary Hearing without an attorney. The Preliminary Hearing provides a great opportunity to not only learn about the strength of the Prosecution’s case, but also is a time where minor drug offenses might be reduced or dismissed.

More serious drug offenses can carry far more significant punishments. In Pennsylvania, the mandatory minimum sentences for the distribution of drugs run from 1 to 8 years in a State penitentiary. When mandatory minimum guidelines affect your case, it is crucial that you discover every piece of evidence that will help you build a defense. Every action of law enforcement in the case must be carefully scrutinized. Where law enforcement has used a Warrant or completed a search of someone’s person or property, then the search and seizure mechanisms used should be reviewed by a competent, knowledgeable attorney.

Like DUI offenses, when an offender accused of a Drug Crime has little or no criminal history, they may be entitled to enter a “Diversionary Program.” In Chester County, the Drug Court Program provides those accused of drug related charges to serve a period of Probation, after which the charges will be dismissed. During the Probationary period that is served by the Defendant, they will be required to take random drug screenings and undergo drug rehabilitation which is consistent with their addiction level. Upon completion of the Drug Court Program, the Defendant is entitled to have the charges expunged from their record.

If you have been charged with a drug related crime in West Chester or any surrounding area in Chester County, do not hesitate to find a local, knowledgeable attorney. A conviction for a drug offense can carry very serious consequences, and it is important that you learn about every potential defense to the charges you face. Call my office today to speak with a lawyer who will listen to you regarding the facts of your case and help you make informed decisions in building your defense. I handle every case personally and there is never a fee for an initial consultation.