Top Cleveland, OH Drug Crime Lawyers Near You

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What Is Considered a Drug Crime?

Drug crimes are some of the most common crimes in the United States, ranging from (unlawful) possession of a controlled substance to large-scale drug trafficking and racketeering. Drug crimes encompass any illegal actions involving controlled substances. Controlled substances include illegal narcotics like heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamines. Drug crimes can also involve selling, distributing, or possessing controlled prescription drugs like oxycodone or Vicodin.

Can I Be Arrested for Using Drugs?

It is generally not a drug crime to be “high” or under the influence of drugs. However, if you still have any drugs in your possession, you may be charged with possession. You could also be charged with possession of drug paraphernalia if you have something with drug residue, like a pipe. If you are high in public, you could face a ticket for public intoxication. However, if you are caught driving while impaired by drugs, you can face a drug DUI or DWI.

What Are Some Examples of Drug-Related Crimes?

The most common drug crimes in the U.S. are drug possession charges. Having one or more illegal drugs in possession is against the law. Some states consider possession of small amounts of marijuana to be a petty offense or infraction. However, drug possession is still a misdemeanor criminal offense in most states. Drug possession with intent to distribute may include a suspect caught in the act of trying to sell drugs. Drug distribution could also be charged if the suspect is in possession of a larger amount of drugs or with indicators of sales, like scales, baggies, and large amounts of cash. Drug possession with intent to distribute is generally a more serious charge than simple possession. Drug trafficking and manufacturing drugs are among the most serious drug offenses. Drug trafficking is generally a felony, with penalties including years in prison. Large-scale drug operations can also involve related charges like racketeering and money laundering.

What Are the Penalties for Different Drug Crimes?

The penalties for drug crimes can depend on the type of drugs, the amount of controlled substance, and whether the drugs were for personal use or for sale. Penalties can also depend on the surrounding circumstances, related charges, and the defendant’s criminal history.

What Are the Penalties for Simple Possession?

Simple possession generally involves possession of a small amount of drugs, generally an amount to be considered for personal use. The maximum amount is generally based on drug laws, not based on the amount the defendant generally consumes. In most states, a simple possession case is a misdemeanor. However, a first-time offense can often result in probation instead of jail time.

What Are the Penalties for Selling Drugs or Trafficking?

Those convicted of large-scale drug trafficking could see between 10 years to a life sentence if convicted. Possession with intent to distribute is generally a felony, charged at the state level, and penalties vary based on the individual facts of the case. Penalties can increase based on the type of controlled substance, amount involved, and related crimes involved.

Is Medical Marijuana Possession a Crime?

The majority of states now have laws for limited medical marijuana use and possession. A large number of states and territories have also legalized recreational cannabis. However, some states still treat marijuana like other controlled substances. Under federal law, medical marijuana remains a Schedule I controlled substance.

Can I Get Probation for a Drug Crime in Ohio?

Probation is a monitored release where you still have to follow certain rules and restrictions to stay out of jail. Probation can require regularly meeting with your probation officer, drug testing, curfew, holding down a job, or other conditions. Individuals can get probation as a way to avoid jail time or as part of a plea deal. Getting probation depends on the seriousness of the crime and other factors, so you can talk to an experienced criminal defense attorney about how to get probation.

Do I Need a Lawyer for a Drug Crime?

If you are facing drug-related criminal charges, an experienced criminal defense lawyer can give you legal advice about your rights, defense strategies, and legal options to avoid a permanent criminal record. Your drug crime lawyer can also help you get approved for a drug diversion program, drug court, or deferred judgment to keep the drug charges off your record.

When to Hire a Lawyer

It is in your best interest to get legal help early on in addressing your situation. There are times when hiring a lawyer quickly is critical to your case, such as if you are charged with a crime. It may also be in your best interest to have a lawyer review the fine print before signing legal documents. A lawyer can also help you get the compensation you deserve if you’ve suffered a serious injury. For issues where money or property is at stake, having a lawyer guide you through the complexities of the legal system can save you time, hassle, and possibly a lot of grief in the long run.

What to Expect from an Initial Consultation

• Seek to determine whether the attorney can represent you. There is no one-size-fits-all legal solution and it may turn out your needs are better served by an attorney in a different specialization.
• It’s important to find a legal ally who is both competent in the law and someone you can trust to protect your interests.
• Discuss how the practice’s billing works and discuss possible additional charges or fees that may arise during or after the resolution of your case.

An attorney consultation should provide you with enough information so that you can make an informed decision on whether to proceed with legal help.

How much does it cost to hire an attorney?

In general, how much an attorney costs will often depend on these four factors: billing method and pricing structure, type of legal work performed, law firm prestige, and attorney experience. Depending on the legal issue you are facing, an attorney may bill you by the hour, settle on a flat fee, or enter into a contingency fee agreement. The type of legal work you need help with will also play a role in cost incurred.

Common legal terms explained

Plaintiff – a person or party who brings a lawsuit against another person(s) or party/parties in a court of law. Private persons or parties can only file suit in civil court.

Judgment – A decision of the court. Also known as a decree or order. Judgments handed down by the court are usually binding on the parties before the court.