If you have been accused of a drug offense, you need a drug possession with intent to distribute lawyer in Duncan to defend you from charges.
They will protect your rights and the outcome of your case as they provide valuable counsel to navigate the legal system. When you’re facing an uncertain future, it’s important to have an advocate fighting for you.
At Suzuki Law Offices, we’re your voice in action. We make sure that you have the opportunity to defend yourself and make sure that you’re heard.
A Duncan federal drug crimes lawyer works diligently and with integrity to build a strong case with effective strategies that improve the outcome of your case, mitigate the impact on your life, and preserve as much of your freedom as possible.
Legal Defenses That Can Be Used in Possession With Intent to Distribute Cases in Duncan
A Duncan drug possession with intent to distribute attorney builds your defense based on the charges and evidence against you and the details of your case.
Every case is unique, and your Duncan federal crimes lawyer will create a customized defense strategy that targets the prosecution’s arguments. They will carefully review the evidence against you during the discovery phase and use the information to inform their approach.
Defenses that your Duncan criminal defense lawyer will most likely use in these types of cases involve showing that you didn’t possess drugs or had no intention to distribute them.
dditionally, if police used entrapment or illegal searches or seizures to arrest you, your lawyer can use that in your defense. The same is true if processes or evidence are mishandled. Mitigating factors may also be used as applicable.
There are also Arizona criminal time limitations that prosecutors must adhere to in a case. In Arizona, prosecutors generally have seven years to file charges for a felony offense, such as drug possession with intent to distribute. If you were arrested and charged after this seven-year period, then your lawyer can use this as a defense in your case. They may be able to get charges dismissed as a result.
Arizona Penalties for Drug Possession With Intent to Distribute Offenses
Drug charges are subject to lengthy prison sentences and other penalties in Arizona. As with any case, the specific details of a case make a difference in how it is handled and how it is punished. Prosecutors and judges will evaluate how severe the offense is, what drugs were found and how much, and aggravating and mitigating factors.
In general, drug possession with intent to distribute offenses are classified as Class 2 or Class 3 felonies. As such, offenders could face two years to 12 and a half years in prison for a first-time offense, according to A.R.S. 13-702.
Furthermore, if offenders are found to be in possession of drugs such as methamphetamine and fentanyl, they could be required to serve five years to 20 years instead (A.R.S. 13-3407 and A.R.S. 13-3408). Penalties increase with prior convictions.
In addition to penalties issued during sentencing, individuals may also experience collateral consequences due to their criminal record. This can make it hard for individuals to find jobs and housing, pursue education, secure financing, and more. Working with lawyers to improve the outlook of your case can also help reduce the extent of the impact on other areas of your life.
Understanding Drug Offenses in Duncan, Arizona
Drug crimes are one of the four most common types of felony offenses in the U.S. From drug activity that occurs within the country to drugs that arrive from over the border, they have created increasing problems in recent years. As such, Arizona and the federal government have been taking steps to get drugs off the street and impose harsh punishments on offenders.
Law enforcement will generally look for drug paraphernalia and drug quantity when determining possession with intent to distribute. According to A.R.S. § 13-3401, 9 grams of fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine, and amphetamine, 4 grams of PCP, 1 gram of Heroin, 2 pounds of marijuana, ½ ml of LSD, and any drug worth more than $1,000 is eligible for a mandatory minimum prison sentence.
The type of drug can make a difference in the length of the mandatory sentence. While drug amounts below the threshold may not receive a mandatory minimum sentence, possession and intent to distribute can still be punished harshly. A lawyer will fight tirelessly to ensure you receive the best outcome for your specific situation.
A Duncan Drug Possession With Intent to Distribute Lawyer Can Protect Your Rights
If you are arrested for drug possession with intent to distribute, it is important to know what your rights are so you don’t say or do anything that could put the outcome of your case and future in jeopardy. First and foremost, you have the right not to talk to law enforcement without your lawyer present. This is the most important step you can take before your lawyer arrives.
Once you’ve retained a lawyer to represent you, they will protect your other legal rights, so you receive a fair trial. This includes making sure that you weren’t subject to illegal searches or seizures, that you are allowed to hear your charges and defend yourself, that your liberties are not infringed upon, and that you receive due process.
Legal cases can take a while, but your lawyer will also ensure it is resolved as swiftly as possible. They will be your strongest defenders so that you do not suffer unfairly during the legal process. Your rights are there to protect you from injustice and make sure you receive the due process you deserve.
Contact Suzuki Law Offices Today
Suzuki Law Offices is prepared to secure a better outcome for your case when you are facing criminal charges.
With our years of experience and knowledge of the legal system in Duncan, we effectively advocate for you and provide trusted counsel in every situation. Consult a drug possession with intent to distribute attorney in Duncan today when you schedule a free consultation with our team.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form