Kent Drug Crime Defense Lawyer

If you have been arrested and brought up on charges of drug crimes in Kent, Washington, you need powerful and reputable legal representation. The fallout from the mere accusation of being involved in the drug trade can ruin your reputation and potentially negatively affect every meaningful relationship in your life. The consequences of a conviction for drug crimes may follow you for years to come.

Ensure that you have the investigative skills and moral support you need to help you through this terrible time. Your highly skilled Kent drug crime defense lawyer at Puget Law Group is here for you with a team that has over 150 combined years of experience in the criminal justice system. Find your ideal Kent criminal defense lawyer among our law firm of 9 attorneys, including 6 former prosecutors, when you contact our office to request a confidential consultation.

The Consequences of Drug Crime Charges Can Be Profound

Ranging from simple fines to a potential term of years in prison, penalties for drug crimes can leave you terrified and emotionally stressed. Having a drug crime defense lawyer in Kent who can investigate the circumstances of your case can ease the burden of these possible outcomes and advise you on how to proceed with building a powerful defense.

Whether it is a simple possession charge, you are being accused of selling or distributing illegal drugs, or you find yourself in need of a DUI defense lawyer, Puget Law Group can help ease your mind with our vast legal experience in the state of Washington.

Charges for the Use or Possession of Drugs and Controlled Substances

Many prosecutors will exercise their judgment in how charges are applied to accused persons based on all evidence and facts presented by law enforcement. You may be facing a simple gross misdemeanor or charges as serious as a Class A felony, but all aggravating and mitigating factors will be taken into account. Possession or use of a controlled substance may be charged as a felony in Washington state, depending on many variables such as the:

• Type of substance
• Quantity of substance
• Age of the person accused
• Former criminal history
• Intent to sell or distribute

You May Face Serious Penalties for Drug Distribution Charges

If your charges include the accusation of distribution or sale of narcotics or controlled substances, excessive fines and lengthy prison sentences may be applied. Your unique circumstances will determine how best to proceed with your, and you should always consult with a drug crime defense lawyer in Kent before saying anything to police officers or anyone else about your arrest or the charges against you. The possible consequence of a drug distribution conviction might include:

• Asset forfeiture
• Years in prison
• Thousands of dollars in fines
• Destroyed reputation
• Loss of parental right

There Are Also Collateral Consequences Associated with Drug Crimes

One must also consider less tangible consequences beyond having to pay fines or spending years of your life behind bars. The destruction of your standing in your community, the ruining of your reputation, and the loss of meaningful and sentimental relationships could all be considered collateral consequences. Our law firm will work tirelessly to defend your physical freedom and your honor and standing among family, friends, and colleagues.

The Differing Types of Drugs for Which You Can Expect Criminal Charges

The state of Washington follows the same drug scheduling pattern set down by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) for classifying controlled substances. The federal guidelines divide substances by Schedules l through V. While some of these substances have established medical uses, Schedule l contains controlled substances found to have no valid medical use and a high potential for abuse or dependency, with some common examples being:

• Opiate derivatives like morphine, heroin, and fentanyl
• Hallucinogens such as LSD or psilocybin, commonly known as magic mushrooms
• MDMA, which is also known by the street name Ecstasy
• Stimulants like crystal methamphetamine
• Cannabis and its associated derivatives

Washington has outlined the varying Schedules under RCW Chapter 69.50 based on their medical usefulness and their potential for dependency and abuse. Because the federal government still lists cannabis and its associated derivatives, the legalization of recreational marijuana in Washington State in 2012 means there are exceptions for people in possession of these substances, which are outlined in the Uniformed Controlled Substances Act.

Whether you are accused of possession or the sale of controlled substances, all the factors of your arrest and charges must be considered to find the ideal defense for your case.

Establishing Your Defense Against Charges Stemming from Drug Crimes

You may think your life is over if you have been accused and arrested for drug charges, but this may be a defining chapter in your life. Do not let deceptive tactics used by police officers or inaccurate information from television shows trick you into thinking that you must accept your fate. Police officers are not legally obligated to be truthful with suspects, but as a defendant, you have the right to remain silent and wait for legal counsel to advise you of what information you can or should not reveal to the police under the Fifth Amendment.

There are options that you may consider for building your defense against any charges of possessing, using, selling, or distributing drugs or controlled substances. Many prosecutors may be willing to enter negotiations for reduced fines or sentences via plea agreements, pre-trial diversion programs, and other possibilities that exist if the prosecution has weak evidence, police make mistakes in your investigation or arrest, or your rights were violated in any way.

Having a legal advocate who will investigate why you were arrested, whether your arrest was lawful, and interview police officers involved in your case to find any potential defenses you can use will be invaluable in your pursuit of freedom. Investigating the procedures of police and interviewing witnesses of your character are only the beginning of the composition of your defense. While your potential penalties depend on your unique circumstances, you can have confidence in your drug crime defense attorney in Kent.

Get the Help You Deserve from a Kent Drug Crime Defense Lawyer and Defend Your Freedom and Reputation

Drug charges can destroy your peace of mind and your social standing in your community. With decades of experience in both prosecution and defense, we have the skills needed to bring forth the strongest defense available for your drug charges. Fill out our contact form now or call us to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation to see how a trial-tested and proven Kent drug crime defense attorney with Puget Law Group can assist you.