Drug Possession Lawyers in Bucks County
Drug charges are very serious and punishable with financial penalties and jail time. These criminal charges affect your life and damage your record. When facing drug possession charges in Bucks County, it is essential to know what this entails and to understand the specific accusations. Criminal defense attorneys at Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C. are available to help you understand your rights and fight the charges you face. Without a supportive and seasoned attorney, you may not be able to strategize the best defense route and have to face hefty fines and jail time.
What Is a Drug Possession Charge in Pennsylvania?
An individual facing charges for drug possession in Pennsylvania is considered to have been caught illegally possessing a controlled substance. The law details that it is illegal for a person to possess a controlled substance without a lawful right, and to do so knowingly.
This charge alone is considered a misdemeanor; however, when the convicted person is charged with intent to deliver, the offense counts as a felony.
Drug Possession Is a Crime of Intent
If you are facing a charge for possessing a controlled substance, law enforcement must be able to prove that you have intended to commit the offense. If there is no solid evidence against you, there is no way to prove that you had the intent to commit the crime or that you knowingly and willingly possessed the drug. Many times, individuals face charges without any objective evidence against them. A drug possession lawyer can evaluate your case and help you develop a plan to minimize penalties and/or avoid convictions. Securing a legal team in your Bucks County drug possession case will help you fight the charges you face and develop the best plan to restore your record.
Requirements of a Drug Possession Charge
A drug possession charge applies if (a) an individual knowingly and intentionally possessed a controlled substance without legal right, (b) an individual had a controlled substance without a valid prescription, or (c), the quantity of the controlled substance is sufficient for personal use or intent to sell.
Illegal Drug Possession Charges
Illegal drug possession charges can look many different ways with federal and state laws that enforce penalties for drug crimes. Depending on the kind of drug, the amount in question, and other factors, law enforcement can gather the evidence based on the situation.
Illegal controlled substances include marijuana, methamphetamine, cocaine, LSD, heroin, and other scheduled drugs in the DEA scheduling system. Possession of paraphernalia such as a bong, vaporizer, bowl, or other devices along with illegal drugs may elicit additional penalties depending on the situation. Drug crimes are specific and carry their penalties for those convicted. After receiving charges against you regarding drug crimes, seeking an attorney right away can help you put the best foot forward in your case.
Penalties for Drug Possession Convictions in Bucks County
The severity of your charges, number of offenses, and proof against you will often be a determining factor in the penalties you can face due to a conviction. Found in Pennsylvania law statute 780-113, drug possession and additional charges have severe penalties. The first drug possession charge is typically a misdemeanor and punishable by a year of jail time as well as up to $5,000 in fines. The charges may be punishable for repeat offenses with years of jail time.
Felony charges for intent to deliver or sell the drugs carry higher fines and jail time penalties. Depending on the quantity of the drug, the type of drug in its scheduled class, and an overall look at the individual’s criminal record, offenders may face serious jail time, financial penalties, and additional court fees.
You have a right to fight the charges against you in a courtroom. Drug possession charges may escalate quickly if there is sufficient evidence against you leaning towards criminal intent with controlled substances. An experienced legal team can evaluate your case and help you fight the charges and insufficient evidence against you.
How an Attorney Can Help You Fight Drug Possession Charges
Facing criminal charges is stressful, especially with felony drug cases that would likely stay on your record for for life. Dealing with these convictions and their penalties can create hardship in your everyday life. Whether you are facing a simple drug possession charge or looking at several charges with intent, distribution, or other obstructions of the law, a criminal defense attorney can help.
Our law firm is determined to help the Bucks County community with professional legal representation as seasoned criminal defense attorneys. An attorney knows the law, understands the charges you face, and evaluates any evidence presented against you. You do not have to face a courtroom on your own.
Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney to Fight Your Bucks County Drug Possession Charge
Drug possession charges are very serious and often carry financial penalties with jail time. Depending on the severity of your case and the evidence against you, these charges may lead to life-changing consequences that affect you for years to come. At Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C., our expert drug defense attorneys bring over 65 years of experience in criminal drug cases, and we are available to help you. Give us a call at (215) 822-7575 or fill out our contact form to schedule your free consultation.
