Puyallup Drug Charges Defense Lawyer
Drug offenses are common charges in Puyallup, and defendants should not underestimate the seriousness of the situation or the possible sentence if convicted. Our lawyers are here to explain the different drug charges in Washington and how to overcome them.
Possession is generally a gross misdemeanor, which only means up to 180 days in jail, if that. Possession with intent to deliver is more serious and is charged as a class B felony in most cases. We may get charges dismissed by filing motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence. We may negotiate plea deals that mitigate the consequences defendants face and can determine whether enough time has passed for defendants to get convictions vacated.
Get help with your case when you call the drug charges defense lawyers of the Law Offices of Smith & White at (253) 203-1645.
What Are the Most Common Drug Offenses in Puyallup?
The two most common drug offenses in Washington are simple possession of a controlled substance and possession with intent to deliver.
Simple Possession
It is against the law in Washington to possess a small amount of a controlled substance for personal use without a prescription. Possessing or using a drug in a public space is also illegal and might result in an arrest for simple possession and a gross misdemeanor charge.
Possession with Intent to Deliver
Defendants are charged with felonies for possession with intent to deliver based on the amount of substances allegedly found on their person or property. The more serious and addictive the substance, the less you need to be found in your possession for you to face a class B felony charge for possession with intent to deliver in Washington.
Drug Charges FAQs Answered by Our Defense Attorneys in Puyallup
When is Possession a Gross Misdemeanor?
Possession or use of a controlled substance without a prescription is typically charged as a gross misdemeanor in Puyallup. A conviction carries a maximum jail term of 180 days and a $1,000 fine.
When is Possession a Misdemeanor?
Possession is charged as a misdemeanor if the substance is 40 grams or less of cannabis. If this is your first offense and you are open to drug counseling classes, our drug charges defense lawyers can most likely help you avoid any jail time.
When is Possession with Intent to Deliver a Class B Felony?
Manufacturing, delivering, or possessing with the intent to deliver a controlled substance leads to a class B felony charge for specific Schedule I or II drugs. The maximum sentence for a class B felony is 10 years.
When is Possession with Intent to Deliver a Class C Felony?
Possession with intent to deliver is charged as a class C felony for Schedule V controlled substances.
When is Distribution a Class A Felony?
Possession with intent to deliver becomes a class A felony in Washington when the distribution is to a minor.
What is the Average Bail Amount for Drug Charges in Puyallup?
Bail amounts for drug charges can vary dramatically from case to case. The judge will most likely consider the severity of the offense, whether any violence was involved, if this is the defendant’s first arrest, and if they are a flight risk or threat to the community.
Can a Plea Deal Reduce Drug Charges?
We may negotiate a plea deal to reduce the charges against you so that a lengthy prison sentence is no longer possible. The charges must actually be reduced before you change your plea, or you risk facing the same harsh consequences as before.
Why Do Some Drug Charges Get Dismissed?
Drug charges often get dismissed for unlawful search and seizure. Tell our attorneys if law enforcement illegally searched your property or person without a warrant or probable cause, and if they violated your rights in other ways, giving us reason to file motions to suppress evidence.
What Are Mitigating Factors for a Drug Conviction Sentence?
Mitigating factors for your sentence are anything that convinces the judge to be more lenient, such as this being your first conviction, the charge being for a nonviolent drug offense, your willingness to accept a plea deal, and your desire to move forward.
What Are Aggravating Factors for a Drug Conviction Sentence?
Aggravating factors are any factors that work against the defendant in sentencing. Our lawyers can provide context for factors the judge might otherwise unfairly weigh against you, such as a history of prior drug convictions.
Is Prison Mandatory for a Drug Crime Conviction?
Prison is not mandatory for any drug crime conviction in Washington, but it becomes more and more likely the more serious the offense and the more aggravating factors there are in a particular case.
When Should You Get a Drug Charges Defense Lawyer?
You should contact our drug charges defense lawyers immediately after police contact you about a possession or distribution case. Even if it seems informal, protect yourself and have an attorney present during any conversations with law enforcement. You should not wait until you have been officially charged to get a defense attorney’s help.
Why Should You Get a Drug Charges Defense Lawyer?
An experienced attorney knows all the ins and outs of the specific drug charges in Washington, as well as the appropriate defense to launch in your specific situation. You should not try to navigate the criminal justice system alone and should assert your right to an attorney immediately.
Can You Get Drug Charges Vacated from Your Criminal Record?
You may qualify for vacation of drug crime convictions if enough time has passed since your case, you have served your sentence, and you have not been arrested or faced any additional charges since.
Reach Out for Help with Drug Charges in Puyallup
Talk to our drug charges defense lawyers about your case by calling the Law Offices of Smith & White at (253) 203-1645.