Bothell Drug Possession Defense Lawyer

Drug possession charges and convictions are serious and have weighty ramifications. If you are accused and arrested for having drugs on you, facing what this might mean for your future can be overwhelming and daunting.

Drug possession charges can have adverse effects on many aspects of your life, and a Bothell drug possession defense lawyer can help you mitigate the impact and secure a more favorable outcome. 

Puget Law Group provides you with an experienced team that applies strategic and effective approaches to your defense. With nine former prosecutors on our team and over a century and a half of combined experience, we are prepared to get you results when you are facing drug possession charges. 

With the extensive knowledge and skills possessed by a Bothell drug crime defense lawyer, you can be confident that your case will receive the attention and care it deserves. 

Your Options When Faced With Drug Possession Charges

Discovery of cocaine, meth, heroin, marijuana, or other illegal and controlled substances is grounds for arrest and a criminal trial in Washington state. If convicted, these crimes typically are subject to harsh punishments. To get your charges reduced or dismissed and learn about your options, it is essential to retain a Bothell criminal defense lawyer.

If you have been arrested for drug possession, you may have the option to be released on bail. As the Washington state bail bond system explained, you have the choice to pay your bail through a cash, property, or surety bond. However, it is important first to seek the help of a lawyer who can negotiate a lower bond and/or its terms. 

Your lawyer will also evaluate your case and charges to develop and argue your defense. They will also assess the procedures used by law enforcement and the prosecution to ensure proper protocols were used to obtain their evidence legally. Your charges could be dismissed if violations occurred during the evidence-gathering or handling process. 

Potential Sentence Terms for Drug Possession Convictions in Washington

If convicted of drug possession, you could face a stringent sentence that could include fines and prison time. Because drug possession often results in felony convictions, it means that your charges and sentence will appear on your record, impacting not only your freedom but your future prospects as well. 

A drug possession defense lawyer in Bothell, WA, can help you understand your options and what type of sentence you could potentially receive, as well as develop defense strategies to improve the outcome. 

According to RCW 69.50.401, illegal drug possession may be punishable by a variety of sentences, depending on the schedule and amount of the drug possessed. Possession of a Schedule I or II drug is most likely to result in a class B felony and may receive a sentence of up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine of $25,000. Sentences involving Schedule III, IV, or V drugs may all be subject to a class C felony conviction. 

Another factor that is taken into consideration during sentence selection for drug possession, is the defendant’s criminal history and whether or not they are a repeat offender.

Washington outlines potential sentence durations based on the severity of the crime and how many offenses the defendant has on their record. It is also important to be prepared for potential deviations from these guidelines, which are up to the discretion of the judge making the ruling. 

Sentencing Alternatives in Washington

Depending on the specifics of your drug possession case, you may be eligible for a drug offender sentencing alternative (DOSA). These options allow for the opportunity to receive treatment rather than prison time. Offenders can be eligible for DOSHA if they meet the following requirements:

• Limited possession of a controlled substance
• No previous DOSHA’s served
• Must not have engaged in a violent offense or had one within the last decade
• Must not have a DUI
• No prior sex offense convictions
• No deportation offenses

It is important to talk with your lawyer to see if you meet any of these requirements. An alternative sentence can help you avoid the impact of a full drug possession sentence. If you qualify, your lawyer will advocate and negotiate an alternative sentence before a judge during your trial. 

A Drug Possession Defense Lawyer in Bothell, WA, Can Improve the Outcome of your Case

Drug possession cases can be complex and take time to resolve. It is in your best interest to have legal representation to help you navigate Washington’s criminal justice system. A lawyer can ensure that your Fourth Amendment, Fifth Amendment, and Sixth Amendment rights are upheld and you have the representation you need for your defense. 

If you are facing charges for drug possession, it is important to understand what to expect from the legal process and what is involved in preparing for a criminal trial.

With the help of your drug possession defense attorney in Bothell, WA, the first stage of the legal process will include evidence gathering and discovery and any subsequent motions or plea agreements as applicable. If your case goes to trial, your lawyer will present evidence, testimonies, and your defense before a judge and jury. 

Your lawyer will aggressively defend you and be your advocate at every turn. They will investigate your case, gather evidence, and build a strong defense with the prosecution’s arguments in mind. They will fight to get your charges or sentence reduced and even get them dismissed if possible. 

Puget Law Group Aggressively Defends Clients Facing Drug Possession Charges

The experienced team at Puget Law Group will aggressively defend you and ensure you receive due process according to your rights. We understand that drug possession charges are overwhelming and provide you with the dedicated representation you need to fight potential charges and convictions. 

Schedule a free consultation today to learn more about Puget Law Group and how a drug possession defense attorney in Bothell can help you face the legal process.