Why Is an Attorney Your Best Chance How to Beat a Drug Possession Charge?
A conviction for any drug possession charges can be devastating. A drug-related conviction can prevent you from obtaining both a liquor license or a license to carry, not to mention its profound repercussions on your finances and your reputation. If you or a loved one are charged with possession of illegal substances, learning how to beat a drug possession charge can prevent having to pay fines and can keep you out of jail.
The consequences of drug convictions can be far-reaching, but it’s possible for those charged with the possession of illegal substances to be found not guilty. Given the gravity and the complexity of drug-related charges, you don’t want to face the legal system alone. With the support of an experienced attorney, you can better explore options for how to beat a drug possession charge, such as dismissing the charges, negotiating a plea, or fighting the charges in court.
It’s in your best interest to contact Rudolf, Smith, Griffis & Ruggieri, LLP for a free consultation as soon as possible. If you’re in Massachusetts and need assistance to beat a drug possession charge, call us at (508) 570-3037 or fill out a contact form today.
What Constitutes a Charge for Illegal Substances?
Any time that you have illegal drugs in your possession there is a chance that you may be arrested, and drug possession charges can be devastating. In Massachusetts, the severity of drug possession charges depends on the type of drugs involved.
State laws prohibit any individual from knowingly or intentionally possessing a controlled substance, unless it was prescribed by a physician. While there is exception for small amounts of marijuana, if you are found with more than one ounce of marijuana you can still be charged with possession.
How to Beat a Drug Possession Charge
There are many different approaches to formulating an effective defense. One common strategy is to look for any evidence that may have been obtained unlawfully. Under the Fourth Amendment, it is only legal for authorities to perform searches – of property or of a person’s body – under specific circumstances. Evidence that has been found through illegitimate means is not admissible in court. Often this evidence is critical to the prosecution’s case, and without it the case will likely be dropped.
Another strategy to beat a drug possession charge – and to keep your criminal record clean – is with a Drug Dependent Diversion program. If approved by the court, this option allows you to enter into a drug rehabilitation program. If you successfully complete the program, your charge is nullified and removed from your record.
Additional tactics for fighting a drug possession charge include the following:
- Proof that you did not have access to or control of the substance in question
- Error or discrepancies in the crime lab analysis report
- An attack on the chain of custody, which questions the police’s record-keeping and handling of the drugs
These approaches can be complicated matters of the law that a criminal defense lawyer will be able to help navigate. If you are wondering how to beat a drug possession charge, you will need an expert attorney who will protect your rights and obtain the best possible outcome. Do not hesitate to reach out to Rudolf, Smith, Griffis & Ruggieri, LLP for a free consultation. Call us today at (508) 570-3037 or fill out a contact form on our website.
Source: Findlaw.com