Between incarceration and collateral consequences, drug charges can alter your life. If you’re accused of both possessing and distributing drugs, you could face more serious charges. A drug possession with intent to distribute lawyer in Gilbert can help you face these charges and receive a better outcome. Your lawyer can protect your rights and speak on your behalf.
Suzuki Law Offices provides exceptional services and effective defense strategies when you are facing drug charges. Our extensive experience, including time spent as former prosecutors and law enforcement investigators, allows us to better guide you through this uncertain time. A Gilbert federal drug crimes lawyers aggressively fights for you and ensures you receive fair treatment throughout your case.
A Gilbert Drug Possession With Intent to Distribute Lawyer Ensures You Have a Strong Defense
Suzuki Law Offices works diligently to defend you against drug possession with intent to distribute charges. We investigate your charges, the evidence against you, and how your case has been handled to identify the most effective defense strategy to use in your case. We also utilize weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and any applicable mitigating factors to get your charges reduced or dropped.
There are a few defenses that our Gilbert federal crimes lawyercan use in these types of cases. They primarily center around a lack of intent to distribute or a lack of knowledge that drugs were in your possession. Your lawyer may also argue that you did not have control over the drugs. Additionally, if law enforcement used entrapment, illegally seized the drugs, or violated your legal rights, your lawyer can incorporate this into your defense.
You will also need evidence to support your defense and fight the charges against you. If you’re wondering what evidence you can use in a criminal defense case, your Gilbert criminal defense lawyer will walk you through your options. Digital evidence, testimonies, physical evidence, demonstrations, and documentation are some common forms of evidence that your lawyer may use in your case.
What You Need to Know About Drug Possession With Intent to Distribute Charges in Gilbert, AZ
Drug possession with intent to distribute charges refer to drugs that are intended for others and not just for personal use. With this type of charge, a drug doesn’t have to be distributed. It only needs to be shown by various means that the drugs were intended for others. This means that the burden of proof is high for prosecutors to show intention and provide sufficient evidence of this aspect.
In Arizona, drugs generally fall into two categories: dangerous drugs and narcotic drugs. Meth, LSD, and illegally obtained prescription drugs are among the most common types of dangerous drugs, and fentanyl, cocaine, and heroin are common examples of narcotic drugs. Marijuana is also considered an illegal drug and can be included in possession with intent to distribute charges.
When facing charges such as these, the time to contact criminal defense lawyers is right away. A Gilbert drug possession with intent to distribute attorney will enforce your rights and speak on your behalf so law enforcement doesn’t use your words against you and push for more serious charges or sentencing. Your lawyer will fiercely fight to reduce the impact of these charges on your life.
How Drug Thresholds Impact Charges in Gilbert
Intent to distribute is a pivotal aspect of these types of charges. Law enforcement will look for indicators that a drug isn’t just for personal use. Paraphernalia such as pipes, syringes, and papers can indicate that a drug is being distributed or sold.
Additionally, a certain measurement of a drug, known as the threshold, can also be an indicator according to A.R.S. § 13-3401. Various thresholds include:
- 1 gram: Heroin
- 4 grams: PCP
- 9 grams: cocaine, methamphetamine, amphetamine, and fentanyl
- 2 pounds: Marijuana
- ½ ml / 50 dosage units: LSD
- All other drugs worth $1,000 or more
When drugs are found in these amounts or higher, individuals are subject to mandatory minimum prison sentences. Even if drugs are found in smaller amounts, an offender may still face serious consequences for possessing these drugs illegally. As such, it is important to consult a skilled lawyer right away to start formulating a defense strategy to fight the prosecution’s charges against you.
Arizona’s Penalties for Drug Possession With Intent to Distribute
The penalties for drug possession with intent to distribute charges can vary based on a few factors. The type of drug can make a difference in how strictly it’s punished. For example, Arizona has a particular focus on fentanyl and is cracking down on it since it contributes to the most drug overdoses in the state. The quantity of the drug can increase or decrease penalties as well.
Many of the drugs mentioned here are categorized as a Class 2 or Class 3 felony in Arizona and include steep fines and considerable prison time. For first-time offenders, prison time for Class 3 felony offenders could range from two to nine years, and anywhere from three to twelve and a half years for a Class 2 felony, per A.R.S. 13-702. Prison sentences for meth or fentanyl could even extend up to 15-20 years.
Individuals who have prior convictions on their record may face extended time in prison and be required to pay higher fines. Conversely, certain individuals may be eligible for diversion programs or plea bargains. These options can help individuals avoid incarceration and even receive a reduced sentence. An experienced lawyer will fight for you and help you get the most favorable outcome in your situation.
Protect Your Future With the Help of Suzuki Law Offices
Suzuki Law Offices carefully evaluates every case we handle to determine the most effective strategies to implement to secure results.
With your future at risk, a drug possession with intent to distribute attorney in Gilbert will fight for a reduction in your charges, a dismissal, or an acquittal, as applicable in your case. Schedule a free consultation with our team today to discuss your legal options and rights.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form