The repercussions of a cocaine possession and distribution charge can ripple throughout the rest of your life. From weighty charges and punishments to collateral consequences, you could face many challenges as you move forward. To secure the most favorable outcome possible, it is crucial to hire a cocaine possession with intent to distribute lawyer in South Tucson to defend you from these charges.
Suzuki Law Offices has extensive experience handling these cases for clients. We leverage our backgrounds and knowledge as former prosecutors to fortify our defense strategies for favorable outcomes. A South Tucson possession with intent to distribute lawyer will safeguard your rights, freedoms, and future.
What to Expect After Being Arrested for Cocaine Possession With Intent to Distribute
If you have been found with cocaine in your possession and signs of distribution, then you could be in for a complicated legal process. While this can be very overwhelming, Suzuki Law Offices prepares you for what to expect so you feel confident that you are in good hands.
Our South Tucson federal drug crimes lawyers will walk you through exactly what to say and do, as well as what to avoid, so you have the guidance you need.
After you hire a South Tucson federal crimes lawyer, they will walk you through timelines for criminal cases. Every case is different, but proceedings can take a while. From the time you are arrested, you will be charged and attend an initial hearing within 24 hours. You will enter your plea at this time.
If you plead not guilty, then your case will progress to trial, which can take a while to complete. If convicted at the end, then sentencing begins.
During your case, your South Tucson criminal defense lawyer will review the prosecution’s case against you and the evidence they submit during discovery. They’ll identify and leverage weaknesses in their case to build you a stronger defense. Your lawyer will also gather evidence and build their arguments to use in court.
They will also continue to advocate for you and negotiate on your behalf with all applicable parties throughout your case.
Intending to Distribute Cocaine Increases the Seriousness of the Charge
According to A.R.S. § 13-3408, cocaine is a narcotic drug that acts as a stimulant. One of the dangers of this drug is that it is highly addictive and can have serious effects on the body and brain. It can be snorted, smoked, taken orally, or injected into the body.
Given its dangers, possessing cocaine for personal use is considered illegal. However, if an individual intends or actually distributes the drug, then the seriousness of the crime increases because there is a greater chance of widespread harm. Higher quantities of cocaine or paraphernalia can indicate this intent, which can result in harsher charges and potential penalties.
If you have been arrested on these types of charges, it can feel overwhelming and like you have limited options. However, you do have the right to hire a lawyer and defend yourself from allegations. You are presumed innocent until proven guilty, and your lawyer will make sure that you receive your due process.
A Cocaine Possession With Intent to Distribute Attorney in South Tucson Helps You Fight Penalties for Your Alleged Offense
Because intending to distribute cocaine is an elevated charge, it also means that the penalties for this offense are elevated. Furthermore, the amount of cocaine found at the time of an arrest also makes a difference.
For example, if an individual has 9 grams or more of cocaine, then they have met the threshold for a mandatory minimum prison sentence, per A.R.S. 13-3401.
Even with a quantity below the threshold, individuals could still face considerable prison time for these offenses. As a Class 2 or Class 3 felony, a first-time offender could spend anywhere between 2 years and 12 and a half years in prison, per A.R.S. 13-702. It is important to note that these ranges could increase if an individual has a prior criminal conviction.
Avoiding these outcomes involves working with a skilled attorney who knows how to combat your charges. Suzuki Law Offices thinks like prosecutors, so we can anticipate their arguments and goals and put a strong defense plan in motion that protects as much of your freedom as possible.
A Strong Defense is Essential to a Better Outcome in Your Case
While a cocaine possession with intent to distribute charge is serious and challenging, a South Tucson cocaine possession with intent to distribute lawyer can still defend you from these allegations.
After gaining a thorough knowledge of your circumstances and charges, they will assess which defenses will be most effective. They will tailor them to your situation and adjust as needed as the case progresses.
Lack of knowledge or intent is an important defense against this type of cocaine charge. This defense can help in reducing the charges. Your lawyer can also use rights violations such as entrapment, illegal searches and seizures, and mishandled evidence to get evidence or possibly have your charges dropped. Your lawyer will protect your rights by ensuring you’re treated fairly and that police and prosecutors follow protocols.
Additionally, a criminal defense lawyer can negotiate a plea deal. If a plea deal makes more sense than a trial in your situation, then your lawyer will negotiate reduced charges and penalties in exchange for you pleading guilty, oftentimes to a lesser charge. Depending on the prosecution’s case against you, a plea bargain can get you a better outcome.
Discuss Your Legal Options With Suzuki Law Offices Today
When you need a South Tucson cocaine possession with intent to distribute attorney, Suzuki Law Offices is ready to help you navigate the legal process.
Our team counsels you on your options and what we can do to get you a better outcome in your case. To talk with our team about your case, contact us to schedule a free consultation at our offices today. We’re always available to represent you.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form