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Drug Crime Lawyers in Cleveland Granting Clients an Opportunity for Redemption
Have you been arrested and are now facing drug charges? Contact our Cleveland drug crime lawyers today to schedule a free consultation.
Drug crimes are serious offenses that can have long-term implications. Those accused of drug crime charges face a difficult road ahead, as the legal system seeks to punish those convicted and make an example out of them. However, with the help of experienced criminal defense attorneys, individuals charged with drug offenses may receive a more favorable outcome for their case and an opportunity for redemption.
Our criminal defense lawyers have years of experience fighting for clients facing drug offense charges. Our lawyers possess extensive knowledge regarding all relevant laws that fall within the scope of drug-related cases. Our dedicated team of legal professionals use their knowledge to build effective defenses against any accusations made against you or your loved ones. Our attorneys believe everyone deserves a second chance at life. As a result, we strive hard for positive outcomes whenever possible, so you do not have to live with the stigma or repercussions of a drug conviction.
Drug convictions can inhibit your ability to enlist in the military, find gainful employment, find suitable housing, or attend the college of your choice.
If you or someone you know is facing drug crime charges, do not hesitate to contact the team at Watson Kuhlman, LLC, for a free consultation. Our law firm is here to help you with the support and protection you need to navigate the legal system safely, so please contact Watson Kuhlman, LLC today so we may professionally analyze your case.
What is the Definition of a Drug Crime?
Drug crimes involve the possession, manufacture, cultivation, sale, or distribution of narcotics, prescription drugs, or controlled substances. Drug crimes occur at a federal and state level and may include drug trafficking charges with varying degrees of severity based on federal drug laws. The types of drugs that are criminalized range from marijuana to harder drugs like cocaine and heroin. The accused may be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony, which can potentially carry hefty fines and even a prison sentence in some cases, depending on the severity and nature of the offense.
A defendant may also face additional charges such as drug paraphernalia possession, distribution of drugs to minors, or even a weapons charge if any weapons were involved in the commission of the crime.
In the interest of public safety, Ohio law enforcement officials and prosecutors take a hard stance on drug-related offenses. Even in a case where an individual is charged with possessing drug abuse instruments if convicted, they could be sentenced to 90 days in jail and a fine of $750. In other instances, individuals who have prior convictions for drug offenses can face mandatory prison time for drug crimes. Even a simple drug possession case can result in a lengthy prison sentence, so it is always in your best interest to hire an experienced defense attorney who will fight to protect your freedom.
Our Cleveland drug crime lawyers understand the legal intricacies of Ohio drug crime laws and will work tirelessly to create a solid defense strategy that will suit your needs.
What are the Differences Between Misdemeanor and Felony Drug Offenses?
Although state prosecutors treat all Ohio drug crimes seriously, criminal penalties vary depending on the circumstances surrounding the case. However, drug crimes may be charged as misdemeanors or felonies, each with its own set of consequences.
Misdemeanor Drug Offenses
Minor drug-related crimes are typically charged as misdemeanors and are less severe than felony charges. In most instances, misdemeanor drug crimes do not carry the steep fines and harsh penalties associated with felony offenses.
An individual may be charged with a misdemeanor drug offense for cases involving small amounts of drugs or possession of drug paraphernalia. However, even with a misdemeanor drug conviction, defendants face a mandatory driver’s license suspension, fines, and possible jail time, depending on the offense level.
Felony Drug Offenses
Felony drug offenses are treated more harshly than misdemeanors and carry severe penalties that can result in steep fines and extended incarceration for those found guilty. Individuals may be charged with felony drug crimes for drug trafficking involved with possessing or selling large quantities of controlled substances or in drug cases that involve children or firearms.
Like misdemeanors, felony offenses are classified by degrees, with first-degree felony charges considered the most serious. First-degree felony charges can result in defendants being sentenced to up to 11 years in prison and a significant fine of up to $20,000.
If you are facing a drug crime case, contact Watson Kuhlman, LLC, and ask to schedule a free consultation with a defense attorney who will gladly review your legal needs.
Why Do Federal Drug Crime Charges Carry Stiffer Penalties?
Although state and federal courts both deal with drug charges, federal drug crimes carry stiffer penalties, including mandatory minimum sentences. Federal drug crimes must meet specific qualifications and are investigated by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) or the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Any drug offenses that meet federal guidelines are dealt with in federal court. Additionally, per law, federal drug crimes typically result in defendants receiving mandatory minimum sentences that are served in federal prison.
Some of the most common federal drug crimes include:
- Drug trafficking across state lines
- The drug offense took place on federal property
- The defendant is suspected of being part of an extensive crime organization
- The drug case involved the use of undercover agents working for the DEA or FBI
- Drug trafficking by importing or exporting illegal drugs into or from the U.S. to another country
One of the most frightening aspects associated with federal drug charges is the potential penalties that defendants can receive if convicted. Unlike state convictions for drug offenses that may be punishable by lesser penalties, the same crimes committed at federal levels could result in lengthy mandatory minimum sentences served in federal prison. Furthermore, federal laws allow judges to sentence defendants to more time than the mandatory minimum guidelines specified. If the federal drug crime involves violence, bodily injury, or death, a defendant could face decades in prison.
Anyone charged with federal drug crimes must hire qualified defense counsel who understands the intricacies of federal law and will work to obtain a positive outcome for clients.
Will I Have to Do Jail Time for a First-Time Drug Offense?
Under Ohio law, many drug crimes carry the potential for heavy fines and extended incarceration, even if it is a first-time offense. State drug laws break drug offenses down based on one of the five “schedules” they fall under according to the federal Controlled Substances Act. Schedules are based on the drug involved, the potential for abuse, and whether they serve any medical purpose.
For example, suppose you were arrested for possession of heroin. At the very least, you could be charged with a fifth-degree felony punishable by 6 to 12 months in state prison. In most instances, individuals charged with drug crimes that fall under Schedule I or II are felony charges. The only exception is for those charged with marijuana possession.
Individuals who are charged with drug crimes under Schedules III through V are generally charged with misdemeanors for a first-time offense. However, even though a drug offense may be charged as a misdemeanor, a defendant still stands a chance of being sentenced to up to 180 days in jail if found guilty.
As with any criminal offense, other factors may play a significant role in the sentencing, including prior convictions, whether children were involved, and whether violent acts were associated with the incident.
Due to the high risk of potentially being sentenced to jail time even for a misdemeanor drug crime, you must hire a drug crimes defense attorney who will act as your legal advocate and protect your freedom.
The defense attorneys of Watson Kuhlman, LLC will work tirelessly to ensure you receive fair treatment when handling your criminal case and work to either have your charges dismissed or obtain a plea agreement on your behalf.
What are Some of the Legal Implications for Ohio Drug Crime Convictions?
Whether an individual is convicted of a misdemeanor or felony drug crime, several legal implications will follow. For example, under Ohio law, all drug convictions are subject to individuals having their driver’s license suspended, in some cases, for up to 5 years. Other legal penalties may include fines, probation, or jail time.
Felony drug convictions are much more severe, and individuals will be forever labeled as convicted felons. Convictions for felony drug crimes can result in defendants being sentenced to anywhere from 6 months to over 10 years in prison.
A convicted felon may be barred from obtaining or holding specific professional licenses, voting, owning, or possessing firearms, or enlisting in the military.
Other consequences for drug convictions include the inability to obtain gainful employment, secure adequate housing, obtain student financial aid, or enroll in higher learning institutions.
Anyone who has been arrested on drug charges must hire a criminal defense lawyer who has the experience to determine the weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and how to negotiate a favorable outcome.
Our Cleveland criminal defense law firm understands that individuals often make poor choices that can negatively impact their ability to achieve their goals. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help safeguard your future.
What are the Benefits of Hiring a Drug Crime Lawyer?
Criminal defense lawyers represent individuals and companies charged with a crime. A drug crime lawyer focuses on drug charges. They may assist their clients in navigating the criminal court system, filing legal documents, gathering evidence, preparing, and presenting a defense case, and negotiating with prosecutors to succeed in court.
A successful criminal defense lawyer should also have good communication skills, be familiar with courtroom procedures and relevant statutes, and possess strong negotiation skills to effectively represent their client’s interests when dealing with police officers.
They must be aware of the specific laws governing drug crimes in the jurisdiction where they practice. Depending on the case, they might need to research whether or not an individual’s rights were violated during their arrest and detention process.
However, a drug crime lawyer’s primary role is developing custom defense strategies to help their clients obtain favorable outcomes. The defense for a drug crime charge will depend on the individual’s situation and the evidence law enforcement presents against them. Some common defenses used in these cases include lack of knowledge/constructive possession, entrapment, illegal search and seizure, coercion by an undercover officer, inadequate police procedure during arrest, mistaken identity, and more.
At Watson Kuhlman, LLC, our lawyers are experienced in building strong defenses for drug crime cases and will work hard to protect your rights and interests. We understand that mistakes happen, so we strive to help those accused of a drug crime obtain the best possible outcome for their case so they can have another chance at life.
What Can Watson Kuhlman, LLC Do For Me?
At Watson Kuhlman, LLC in Cleveland, Ohio, our team understands how intimidating it can be to face drug charges alone and without proper legal representation. Our lawyers offer skilled legal counsel and intense defense strategies to ensure your best interests are represented throughout the entire process.
When you come to us for help, we will review the state’s evidence to look for weaknesses in witness testimony and whether your legal rights were violated. In some cases, we may be able to have evidence suppressed or thrown out, which will significantly weaken the state’s case.
Our defense attorneys also have extensive experience in plea bargaining with prosecutors to help clients receive fair sentences for criminal charges.
If we cannot negotiate a plea arrangement that is not favorable to you, we are prepared to take your case to jury trial and fight to establish reasonable doubt and obtain a not-guilty verdict. Our defense attorneys have in-depth experience handling criminal cases and know what it takes to get results.
We strive to provide compassionate yet aggressive representation so you can obtain an outcome that reflects your needs and goals. We understand that no two cases are alike. We evaluate each situation differently so you get personalized attention tailored to your needs and goals. Call (216) 208-7858 today to speak with someone on our team.
