Kirkland Drug Crime Defense Lawyer

Facing drug charges in Kirkland, Washington, can be a life-altering experience, and the consequences can be overwhelming. An experienced Kirkland criminal defense lawyer understands the complexities of Washington drug laws and the penalties associated with offenses. At Puget Law Group, a dedicated Kirkland drug crime defense lawyer is here to provide aggressive and compassionate legal representation throughout your case and fight for the best outcome.

Washington State Drug Laws

The Washington State Uniform Controlled Substances Act classifies controlled substances into five schedules based on their potential for abuse, medical use, and safety. Schedule I drugs have the highest potential for abuse and no currently accepted medical use, while Schedule V drugs have the lowest potential for abuse and some accepted medical use. The schedules and some commonly associated drugs are as follows:

• Schedule I: Heroin, LSD, ecstasy (MDMA)
• Schedule II: Cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl, Adderall
• Schedule III: Ketamine, suboxone, anabolic steroids, marijuana
• Schedule IV: Xanax, Valium, Ativan
• Schedule V: Some cough syrups and anti-diarrhea medications

Federal laws also govern drug crimes; in some cases, federal schedules may be more restrictive than those of Washington State. For example, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s drug scheduling has marijuana currently classified as Schedule I, while Washington classifies it as Schedule III. Because federal and state law enforcement agencies have concurrent jurisdiction over drug crimes, they can both investigate and prosecute offenses, making it crucial to retain representation from a Kirkland drug crime defense attorney if you are facing drug charges.

Drug Crimes We Handle in Kirkland

Your trusted legal partners in Washington at Puget Law Group have experience handling various drug crime charges. We understand the laws on drug crimes and can walk you through the legal process. The drug-related charges our drug crime defense lawyers in Kirkland, WA commonly handle include:

• Possession of controlled substances: Includes marijuana, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, prescription drugs without a valid prescription, and other illegal substances.
• Distribution or sale of controlled substances: Includes selling or distributing illegal drugs.
• Manufacturing of controlled substances: Covers the creation of illegal drugs or operation of a facility for drug production.
• Drug possession with intent to distribute (PWID): If law enforcement believes you intended to sell or distribute the drugs you possess.
• Driving under the influence (DUI)/while intoxicated (DWI): Includes not just alcohol but also cannabis and any other drugs.
• Drug paraphernalia charges: Includes possession of items commonly associated with drug use.
• Prescription drug fraud: The fraudulent acquisition, possession, or distribution of prescription drugs, including forging prescriptions or doctor shopping.
• Drug conspiracy: Participation in a conspiracy or agreement to engage in drug-related criminal activity, even if no drugs are possessed or exchanged.
• Federal drug offenses: Those that violate federal laws, such as trafficking drugs across state lines or manufacturing drugs on federal property.

All drug crimes are taken seriously in Kirkland. They can lead to serious consequences that can impact you for the rest of your life. If you are facing a drug charge, contact a drug crime defense lawyer in Kirkland at Puget Law Group to discuss how we can help you.

Consequences of Drug Charge Convictions in Kirkland

A drug conviction in Kirkland can have a lasting impact on your life. Regardless of the specific charge you are facing, you must understand the gravity of the situation and its potential consequences. Consequences you could face if convicted of a drug crime in Washington include:

• Jail time
• Fines
• Loss of your driver’s license
• Difficulty obtaining employment
• Limited housing options
• Suspension of your professional license
• Deportation
• Inability to reenter the United States
• Mandatory participation in a drug treatment program
• Community service
• A criminal record
• Inability to obtain financial aid
• Loss of child custody
• Loss of civil liberties, including the right to vote, possess a firearm or hold public office
• Reputational damage

Do not fight a drug charge on your own. Retain the help of a skilled drug crime defense attorney in Kirkland, WA. Our criminal defense attorneys can help you navigate the complex legal process to minimize the penalties you may face.

Severity of Kirkland Drug Charges

Many factors can influence the severity of your drug charges. These factors impact the type of offense you are charged with and the potential penalties. Key factors that affect the severity of your drug charges include:

• The specific drug: The type of controlled substance involved plays a significant role in your charges. Generally, drugs with a higher potential for abuse will result in harsher charges than drugs with lower abuse potential.
• The quantity of the drug: Larger quantities of drugs often suggest the intent to distribute, leading to more serious charges than possessing a small amount for personal use. Washington has established specific weight thresholds for different drugs that determine the charge.
• Intent: A crucial distinction between simple possession and PWID lies in whether the prosecution believes you possessed the drugs for personal use or intended to sell or distribute them. PWID is a more severe offense with harsher penalties.
• Prior criminal history: A clean criminal record can work in your favor. However, a history of drug offenses will likely lead to harsher charges and sentencing.
• Location of the offense: An offense committed on federal property or involving large quantities of drugs crossing state lines might be subject to federal law, which can have stricter penalties. Also, being caught with drugs in designated drug-free zones can enhance your charges.
• How you were caught: If law enforcement stopped or searched you without probable cause, your Kirkland drug crime defense lawyer might be able to challenge the legality of the search. This could lead to evidence being thrown out.
• Cooperation with law enforcement: While you have the right to remain silent, cooperating with law enforcement might be a mitigating factor, especially if you have no prior record. However, it is crucial to consult with a criminal defense attorney before speaking to the police.
• Your age: Drug charges involving minors are often handled differently than those involving adults. There may be specific juvenile drug courts or programs designated for juvenile offenders.

This is not an exhaustive list of the factors that may affect your drug charges. Your case depends on your unique circumstances. Consulting with a qualified Kirkland drug crime defense attorney is essential to understand the charges you face and develop the most effective defense strategy to have your felony charges reduced to misdemeanors and then dismissed.

Early Legal Representation Is Crucial

The sooner you secure legal representation from a skilled drug crime defense lawyer in Kirkland, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome. You should contact Puget Law Group as soon as possible to schedule a free consultation to learn how we can help you deal with your drug charge. We will get to work quickly to develop an effective defense strategy on your behalf.