Arizona takes drug use charges very seriously, including the use of cocaine. Benson prosecutors will likely take a more aggressive approach in their efforts to put a stop to this activity.
A cocaine possession with intent to distribute lawyer in Benson ensures that you have a voice and can defend yourself from these allegations. They also work diligently to preserve your freedom and future.
With backgrounds in law enforcement and as a former U.S. federal prosecutor, Suzuki Law Offices can effectively fight the charges against you by anticipating and thinking like prosecutors.
This allows your Benson possession with intent to distribute lawyer to create stronger defense strategies and know the opposing counsel’s strategies. Our team fights tirelessly to secure a favorable outcome in your case.
Your Legal Rights After an Arrest for Cocaine Possession With Intent to Distribute in Benson
While cocaine charges are serious offenses in Benson, you have several legal rights available to you. They protect your freedom, allow you to present a defense, and make sure your case is handled fairly and correctly.
Your rights kick in the moment you’re arrested and protect you throughout the entirety of your case. Your Benson federal drug crimes lawyer also ensures that your rights aren’t violated.
Your rights include:
- The right to remain silent and hire a lawyer
- The right to due process
- The right to hear your charges and submit your defense
- The right to a speedy trial before a judge and/or jury
- Protection from excessive or cruel punishments
Your cocaine possession with intent to distribute attorney in Benson will discuss your rights with you and guard them during your case.
They will also walk you through the charges and terminology involved in your case, and what to expect, so you are prepared and supported at every turn. You’re also able to retain your innocence until it’s otherwise established beyond a reasonable doubt.
A Benson Cocaine Possession With Intent to Distribute Lawyer Tailors Your Defense to Your Unique Circumstances
When you hire a Benson federal crimes lawyer to defend you from cocaine charges, they will work diligently to understand your charges, the prosecution’s case thoroughly, and what evidence is available.
This information is essential for determining which defense strategy is most effective. They will also customize your defense to fit the needs of your case and your circumstances since every case is different.
However, there are a few defenses that are commonly used in these types of cases. The most prominent of which is that you did not possess drugs, had no intention of selling them, and/or had no knowledge of the drugs that were allegedly found in your control. Your lawyer will simultaneously look for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and leverage them as part of your defense.
Additionally, a Benson criminal defense lawyer can challenge opposing evidence against you when law enforcement gains it by illegal means, such as entrapment or a warrantless search and seizure. They can also defend you from evidence that was mishandled or from incorrect procedures. Lawyers can have this type of evidence suppressed or may even be able to use it to get their charges dropped.
What Law Enforcement Looks for to Determine Intent to Distribute in Benson, Arizona
Cocaine is a drug that has powerful and harmful effects on the body. Given its usage in Arizona and the dangers it poses, intending to distribute the drug to others is seen as a far more serious offense.
However, an individual can be charged with this offense even if they haven’t sold any cocaine. Other factors are taken into account to determine intent.
How much of the drug a person has in their possession is closely examined. All drugs have a threshold at which usage exceeds that which would be used for personal consumption.
According to A.R.S. 13-3401, cocaine’s threshold is 9 grams. While possessing any amount of cocaine is illegal, meeting or exceeding the threshold automatically qualifies for a mandatory minimum prison sentence.
Law enforcement also looks for a quantity of drug paraphernalia when determining intent to sell. Common types of paraphernalia may include spoons, lighters, pipes, blades, and more.
The type of paraphernalia may change with the way cocaine is consumed, and a variety of paraphernalia could imply distribution to a wide range of users.
Cocaine Possession With Intent to Distribute is Punished as a Felony Offense
Arizona punishes cocaine possession with intent to distribute offenses as felonies. These are the most serious types of charges, and they have a greater impact on your life.
Cocaine offenses can be charged as a Class 3 felony at a minimum and a Class 2 felony at the maximum. If convicted, you could face a lengthy time in prison, as well as other punishments, which are up to the discretion of a judge.
According to A.R.S. 13-702, incarceration could range from two years to 12 and a half years between both felony classes. The length of these sentences is based on first-time offenses and on whether the charges were mitigated, at minimum, presumptive, at maximum, or aggravated.
Judges will review the details of the case when determining sentencing. They will also take mandatory minimum sentencing into account.
Penalties can be reduced through a plea agreement in some cases. Because it involves pleading guilty, you should talk with your lawyer before accepting a deal.
Mitigating factors in a case can also help lower charges and sentencing by providing contextual information that decreases the impact of the crime and the resulting punishment.
Entrust Your Defense to Suzuki Law Offices Today
Suzuki Law Offices works to preserve your freedom and ensure that you’re treated fairly during the legal process.
With our team of lawyers by your side, you can be confident that you’ll have a strong case that can rebut the prosecution’s arguments so you receive the most favorable outcome possible in your case.
Schedule a free consultation with a Benson cocaine possession with intent to distribute attorney today.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form