Sheffield Drug Crime Lawyer

Sheffield Drug Crime Attorney

A drug crime charge can result in many serious consequences, whether that be legal ramifications, such as prison time, or personal consequences, such as trouble securing employment. If you’ve been charged with a drug crime, contact a skilled Sheffield drug crime lawyer to help you fight for your freedom.

Why Choose The Law Office of Brad Phillips, LLC?

At The Law Office of Brad Phillips, LLC, we know how stressful life can be after a drug crime arrest. We are here to help alleviate your stress and walk you through the oncoming legal process. We work tirelessly to fight for your future and ensure that your rights are upheld. Whether you’ve been arrested for simple possession or distribution, our talented team of criminal defense lawyers is ready to assist you.

What Is a Drug Crime?

A drug crime refers to any offense that violates federal and/or state statutes and involves controlled substances. This can include the possession, distribution, or manufacturing of drugs.

When someone is suspected of a drug crime, law enforcement can use search warrants, surveillance, and other methods to secure an arrest. If convicted, a defendant can face severe consequences, including jail/prison time and hefty fines.

Drug Schedules

Drugs are categorized into Schedules, which are based on each drug’s potential for abuse and level of accepted medical use. There are five Schedules. Schedule I drugs, which are the most heavily penalized, have the highest potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. Examples of Schedule I drugs include cocaine and LSD.

Schedule II drugs include methamphetamines and prescription opioids. They have limited medical uses and a high chance of abuse. Schedule III drugs have a lower chance of abuse than Schedule II and are slightly more accepted in the medical field. Examples of these include some pain relievers.

Schedule IV drugs have a lower chance of abuse with some accepted medical uses, such as anxiety medications. Schedule V drugs have the lowest chance of abuse with the most accepted medical uses. Examples include many drugs available with a prescription.

Common Drug Offenses in Sheffield

Drug charges vary widely in severity, and the penalties will depend on the circumstances surrounding the crime. Some common drug offenses include:

• Possession. A person can be charged with simple possession or possession with the intent to sell or distribute. Simple possession will likely result in a misdemeanor with minor penalties. However, having the intent to sell or distribute will bring harsher penalties, as these offenses usually involve more drugs and affect more people.
• Drug trafficking. Drug trafficking is a serious offense that involves the distribution and transportation of large amounts of drugs. Trafficking usually refers to large-scale operations that include elaborate planning and multiple involved parties.
• Possession of drug paraphernalia. Possessing drug paraphernalia is a crime. Paraphernalia can include rolling papers, bongs, razor blades, digital scales, and pill crushers.
• Drug manufacturing. Producing or growing illegal substances is considered drug manufacturing. Examples include illegally growing marijuana or facilitating a meth lab.

What to Do If You’ve Been Charged With a Drug Crime

If you are charged with a drug crime in Sheffield, AL, it’s important to act right away. Immediate action can help secure your future and protect your rights. First, try to remain silent. This is your legal right. Refrain from admitting any guilt and only speak of the details regarding your case with your attorney. Also, refrain from discussing your case on public forums, such as social media. The things you say can be used against you in court.

Next, hire an attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can speak on your behalf, evaluate the evidence, and build an appropriate defense in your favor. They can also fight for lesser charges or to have the charges dismissed.

Gather all the evidence you need and that your attorney requests. This can include witness statements or proof that the drugs belonged to someone else. Also, be sure to cooperate with the courts and follow all instructions they give you to avoid additional charges.

FAQs

How Much Does a Criminal Lawyer Cost in Alabama?

There are many factors to consider when determining the cost of hiring a criminal lawyer in Alabama. This includes the intricacy of the case, how experienced the lawyer is, and whether or not the case goes to trial. Generally speaking, the more complex and extensive a case is, the more you will pay for an attorney.

What Is the Punishment for Drug Possession in Alabama?

The punishment for drug possession in Alabama depends on the circumstances surrounding the case. The Schedule and amount of the drug will determine the penalties. Serious possession charges, such as those involving large amounts of Schedule I drugs, will typically result in long jail or prison sentences and hefty fines. More minor offenses, such as possessing small amounts of Schedule V drugs without a prescription, will typically have less serious consequences.

How Do I Beat a Possession Charge in Alabama?

Fighting a possession accusation in Alabama usually involves arguing that the search and seizure was unlawful, contesting the chain of custody of the evidence, showing that you were ignorant of the possession of drugs, or revealing a violation of your constitutional rights. Your attorney can look at the specifics of your case to build a defense that is most appropriate for your circumstances.

How Long Do Drug Court Cases Last?

The amount of time a drug court case lasts will depend on a number of circumstances. If there are serious allegations against you, the case may last for a longer period of time. Additionally, if there are numerous complex charges against you, this can add additional time. If you comply with court orders, the case may move quickly, depending on the court’s caseload.

Contact an Experienced Attorney From The Law Office of Brad Phillips, LLC

Facing drug charges is a serious matter that can drastically affect your life. The Law Office of Brad Phillips, LLC, can help you fight for a brighter future. Contact us today to get started.