If you have been arrested and charged with a cocaine offense, then you could be facing profound implications for your future. A cocaine possession with intent to distribute lawyer in Gilbert helps reduce the potential damage to your life and secure reduced charges, a dismissal, or an acquittal of your charges altogether.
Suzuki Law Offices is available 24/7 to help clients facing legal challenges. A Gilbert possession with intent to distribute lawyer will provide support and legal counsel so you have a better chance at a favorable outcome. We are a team of former prosecutors and law enforcement investigators who know how to leverage their processes and create stronger defenses for our clients.
What to Do After You Have Been Arrested and Charged With a Cocaine Offense
If you have been arrested and charged with cocaine possession with intent to distribute, you know how overwhelming these charges and the legal process can feel. Knowing what to do and what to expect can help ease some of the anxiety as you go through the legal process. A Gilbert federal drug crimes lawyer will walk you through what you need to know if you are arrested for a crime in Arizona.
First and foremost, the less you say after an arrest, the better. You should hire a lawyer and wait for them to communicate on your behalf. Once in custody, you may be required to post bail for your release or attend a pre-trial hearing to determine how to proceed. Your Gilbert federal crimes lawyer can guide you and advise you of your options in these situations. They can also counsel you on how to plead in your case.
Depending on the nature of the offense and how you plead, your case may either be handled out of court or via a trial. Your lawyer will walk you through the implications of each one, as well as help you get the most favorable outcome for your situation. You should openly communicate with your Gilbert criminal defense lawyer so they can serve you better and provide tailored recommendations for your situation.
Your Rights During the Criminal Defense Process
A Gilbert cocaine possession with intent to distribute attorney protects your rights after you have been arrested. In addition to your Miranda rights, which allow you to remain silent and hire a lawyer, you also have other rights that are outlined in the Constitution. The purpose of these rights is to make sure that you receive fair treatment throughout the legal process.
Alleged offenders primarily receive protection under the Fourth Amendment, Sixth Amendment, and Fourteenth Amendment. Together, they give you the right to hear the charges leveled against you, defend yourself, and receive your due diligence through a speedy trial before a judge and jury. You are also protected from illegal searches and seizures and actions that unfairly deprive you of your liberties.
Your lawyer will safeguard your rights throughout your case so you receive your due process. They will act quickly if your rights are infringed upon and make sure that you and your case are not negatively impacted by another party’s actions when handling your case. This is just one of the many reasons why you should have a lawyer by your side when facing cocaine charges in Arizona.
Cocaine Possession With Intent to Distribute is a Felony in Arizona
Penalties for cocaine possession with intent to distribute are often determined based on the amount of the drug found. According to A.R.S. 13-3401, nine grams of cocaine result in mandatory minimum prison sentences. The larger the amount, the more time that could be added on to your sentence. The same is true if you have a prior conviction on your record.
Even if cocaine is found in an amount below the threshold, you could still face serious consequences for cocaine possession. While this may result in a prison sentence, the duration may be shorter. Offenses involving cocaine are often classified as a Class 2 or Class 3 felony. According to A.R.S. 13-702, first-time offenders could receive a sentence ranging from two years to more than 12 years, depending on the charge.
Like other drug use throughout the state, Arizona takes drug offenses seriously and implements stringent punishments, especially when it comes to the intention to distribute. This aspect increases the severity of penalties because the offense has a far wider reach and puts more people at risk.
A Gilbert Cocaine Possession With Intent to Distribute Lawyer Will Aggressively Defend You Against Charges
Defenses against intent to distribute charges primarily focus on showing that there was a lack of intent or knowledge on the part of the alleged offender. They may also argue that the drug was not in your immediate control or possession, which can help minimize the charges and potential outcomes in your case. The details of their argument will be customized to the specifics of your situation.
Rights violations are also a serious breach of due process, and your lawyer can use these situations to get evidence dismissed. In some cases, they may be able to get your case dropped altogether. If law enforcement mishandles evidence in your case, obtains it illegally, or uses entrapment to arrest you, then your lawyer can incorporate these instances into your defense.
You will also need evidence to support your defense and challenge the prosecution’s evidence. At the outset of your case, your lawyer will discuss with you what evidence you can use in a criminal defense case. As you discuss the details of your situation with your lawyer, they will determine the most effective forms of evidence that can be collected and used as part of your defense strategy.
Retain Representation from Suzuki Law Offices for Your Case
Suzuki Law Offices fiercely defends you against the charges you’re facing and strives to protect your future. We work diligently to reduce your charges and their impact.
With the help of a cocaine possession with intent to distribute attorney in Gilbert, you receive the representation and support you need to navigate the legal system. You can learn more when you schedule a free consultation.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form