Everett Drug Possession Defense Lawyer

It may feel impossible to contest a drug possession charge. Fortunately, legal help is available. Work with an Everett drug possession defense lawyer, and your attorney may find ways to help you avoid a conviction. 

Puget Law Group has received over 350 positive Google Reviews. Let an Everett drug crime lawyer from our team assist you with your drug possession case. Contact us today to get started. 

What Can Happen If You Are Charged with a Drug Possession Crime

Do not expect the authorities to take it easy on you if you are found in possession of illegal drugs. Following your arrest, a prosecutor is likely to commit substantial time and resources to show the court that you should be convicted. If you choose not to do anything, you could be convicted of a drug possession crime and face consequences that affect you for years. 

If convicted of possession of drugs, you may receive a prison sentence, a fine, or both. Along with these penalties, your conviction can appear on your criminal record and hurt your chances of doing things like buying a home or securing a job. In addition, your family members and friends may treat you differently. 

At Puget Law Group, our Everett criminal defense lawyer understand the immediate and long-term ramifications of a drug possession conviction. An Everett drug possession defense attorney from our team can provide insights into how to prepare for a criminal trial and help you with other aspects of your case. Schedule a free case consultation. 

When You Could Be Charged with a Drug Possession Crime

Drug possession crimes are defined under the Revised Code of Washington (RCW). Per RCW 69.50.4013, it is illegal to knowingly possess a controlled substance unless it was obtained using a valid prescription or from a practitioner. Being in possession of any of the following controlled substances could lead to an arrest:

• Cocaine
• Fentanyl
• Heroin
• PCP
• LSD
• Anabolic steroids
• OxyContin 
• Ecstasy

If you have been charged with possession of any of these controlled substances or others, meet with a defense attorney. This gives you an opportunity to discuss your charge with a lawyer. At this point, your attorney can review your charge in-depth and explore ways to help you defend against harsh penalties. 

Penalties You Could Face if You Are Convicted of Drug Possession

A drug possession defense lawyer in Everett, WA, focuses on helping their client achieve optimal case results. At the same time, they are upfront and honest with their client. They will explain the worst-case scenario and what could happen if you are convicted of drug possession. 

The penalties you face if convicted of drug possession depend on the severity of your crime. In terms of prison time, you could receive anywhere from five years to a lifetime sentence if you are convicted of a felony. You may also be subject to a fine ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 for a felony conviction. 

When in doubt about how to respond to a drug possession charge, err on the side of caution. Consult with a drug possession defense attorney in Everett, WA, who has received many outstanding client testimonials. This lawyer may consider myriad legal strategies.

Everett Drug Possession Defense Strategies

Saying you did not possess drugs may not be enough to avoid a conviction. A drug possession defense lawyer in Everett can develop a legal defense specifically for your case. As part of their efforts, they may consider various strategies, such as:

Lack of Possession

Your lawyer could argue that a controlled substance did not actually belong to you. For example, police officers may have arrested you based on an illegal substance that they found in your car. Your attorney could present evidence that helps prove that this substance was not yours. 

Unlawful Search and Seizure

Police officers cannot search and seize property unless they have a valid warrant, receive your consent, or have a legitimate reason to believe that a crime has been committed. Regardless, they could find drugs in your possession in violation of search and seizure requirements. If they do, the court may suppress evidence that the prosecution plans to use against you.  

Duress

You could be in possession of drugs because you had no other option. In this scenario, you may have had these drugs on you because you were under duress, as you were coerced or forced to carry them. If your lawyer can prove that this was the case, the court may dismiss the prosecution’s case. 

If you have concerns about whether to hire a criminal defense lawyer if you are not guilty, consider what can happen if you choose to go through your legal proceedings alone. The prosecution will work diligently to get a conviction. Alternatively, if you have an attorney at your side, you could build a defense that helps you disprove the prosecution’s argument.  

Negotiating a Plea Deal for a Drug Possession Crime

In your drug possession case, you may have the opportunity to negotiate a plea agreement. Your attorney can discuss all that a plea deal entails. They may propose one to the prosecution, and if the agreement is approved, you may be able to avoid a lengthy prison sentence. 

A plea deal involves accepting a lesser charge than the one that was originally proposed. The agreement ensures that you will not have to bring your case to trial. Instead, you and the prosecutor can come to terms without court involvement. 

Just because a plea bargain is on the table does not mean you have to accept an agreement. In the same way, the prosecutor in your case may not approve a plea deal. If your case goes to trial, your lawyer will advocate for you, protect your legal rights, and represent your best interests as they argue your case.

Ask for Legal Help with Your Everett Drug Possession Case

Puget Law Group has more than 150 years of combined legal experience on staff. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to discuss your drug possession case. Request a free case consultation.