Drug Possession Defense Lawyer in Avondale

If you or a loved one is facing a drug possession charge in Avondale, you may be feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about the future. Our drug possession defense lawyers in Avondale can help you start building a strong defense.

At Suzuki Law Offices, our Avondale drug crimes lawyer can help you build a strong defense against the prosecutor. We are available 24/7 to help answer any questions you have.

Laws For Common Controlled Substances in Avondale

There are several different types of drugs you may face charges for if you have them in your possession. Our Avondale criminal defense lawyer can help you if you’ve been charged with possession of any of the following:

Marijuana

Marijuana possession in Arizona is legal for adults 21 and older, provided the amount does not exceed one ounce of flower, of which no more than five grams can be in the form of a concentrate such as live resin. Possession over this legal limit becomes a criminal offense, starting as a petty offense for amounts up to 2.5 ounces. 

However, possessing amounts greater than 2.5 ounces for personal use can be prosecuted as a Class 6 Felony, and any possession with the intent to sell or traffic, especially in larger quantities, is charged as a serious felony with significant potential prison time.

Methamphetamine, Cocaine, Heroin, and Fentanyl

Simple possession of what Arizona classifies as dangerous drugs, like Methamphetamine, or narcotic drugs like Cocaine, Heroin, and Fentanyl, is consistently prosecuted as a Class 4 Felony, the least severe of which carries a prison term. 

Notably, due to specific state laws, a first-time conviction for simple Methamphetamine possession is ineligible for probation and treatment, resulting in a mandatory prison sentence. 

For all of these substances, possessing an amount over the “statutory threshold” automatically elevates the charge to a severe Class 2 Felony for possession with intent to sell, which carries a much longer term of mandatory imprisonment.

Prescription Drugs (Without a Prescription)

The unauthorized possession or use of a prescription-only drug is a serious but non-felony offense, typically charged as a Class 1 Misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to six months in jail and a mandatory fine of at least $1,000. 

This applies to a variety of medications, including opioids, amphetamines, and benzodiazepines, if the person does not have a valid, lawfully obtained prescription. 

However, the offense immediately escalates to a felony if the conduct involves a clear intent to distribute, such as possessing the drugs for sale or obtaining them through fraud or forgery, which can lead to a Class 6 Felony or higher charge.

What Evidence Can You Gather in Avondale to Build a Strong Drug Defense Case?

Building a strong defense against drug possession charges starts with carefully examining the evidence and identifying anything that may challenge the prosecution’s claims. Our drug possession defense lawyers in Avondale can help you gather:

• Physical evidence: Items like the alleged drugs, paraphernalia, or packaging are important pieces of evidence. Our team examines how these items were discovered, stored, and tested to ensure the prosecution followed proper procedures. Any mishandling or errors can be challenged in court.
• Witness statements: Eyewitness accounts or statements from law enforcement and others present during the alleged incident can support your version of events. We look for inconsistencies or gaps in testimony that may weaken the prosecution’s case.
• Digital and surveillance evidence: Many drug cases rely on body cams, dash cams, or surveillance footage. We carefully review all available video or digital evidence to check for inconsistencies, unauthorized searches, or violations of your rights.

What are Common Defenses Against Drug Possession Charges?

One of the most common defenses in drug possession cases is challenging the legality of the search and seizure that led to the discovery of the drugs. If law enforcement violated your constitutional rights, such as searching without a valid warrant or probable cause, any evidence obtained may be excluded from the case. 

Another key defense is lack of knowledge or intent. In many drug possession cases, the prosecutor must prove that you knowingly possessed the controlled substance. If you were unaware that the drugs were present or did not have control over them, this can be a strong argument in your defense. 

Procedural errors and technical issues also provide avenues for defense. Mistakes in testing, labeling, or handling of the alleged drugs can call into question the reliability of the evidence. Additionally, inconsistencies in witness statements or law enforcement reports can create reasonable doubt. 

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Why You Should Choose Our Drug Possession Defense Lawyer in Avondale

When facing drug possession charges, having an experienced and reliable defense team on your side can make all the difference. At Suzuki Law Offices, our clients benefit from 20 to 30 years of combined legal experience and the guidance of RJ Suzuki, a former federal prosecutor who understands exactly how the system works from both sides. 

What truly sets us apart is our in-house team of former and retired law enforcement investigators. Their honed skills and experience allow us to thoroughly examine evidence, uncover procedural errors, and build a defense strategy tailored to the specifics of your case. 

Our drug possession defense lawyers in Avondale are always available to our clients, 24/7, including weekends. We prioritize clear communication and make sure you understand each step of the legal process. 

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Contact Our Drug Possession Defense Lawyer in Avondale

Facing a drug possession charge can be a distressing experience, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Suzuki Law Offices is here to provide you with the strong defense strategy and guidance you need. 

We encourage you to reach out as soon as possible to discuss your case with our legal team. By contacting us, you take an important step towards protecting your future. 

Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form