Arizona is actively targeting fentanyl use throughout the state and is punishing offenses harshly. If you are accused of possessing and distributing this drug, you could be facing serious penalties and uncertainty about your future. A fentanyl possession with intent to distribute lawyer in South Tucson can guide you through the legal process so you have someone in your corner.
At Suzuki Law Offices, we’re your voice in action. We communicate and advocate for you with police, prosecutors, and court personnel. Our team is available 24/7 to ensure that you receive the representation you need to defend yourself from the charges against you. A South Tucson possession with intent to distribute lawyer may be able to help get your charges reduced or dismissed.
Your Legal Rights During the Criminal Defense Process
To protect yourself and the outcome of your case, it’s important to understand your rights when you’ve been charged with fentanyl possession with intent to distribute. Your Constitutional rights allow you due process when you have been arrested. This means that you have the opportunity to hear the charges against you, defend yourself, and receive a swift trial. You’re also innocent until shown otherwise.
You are also protected from illegal searches and seizures. Law enforcement must have just cause to conduct a search, as well as possess a warrant, before they can lawfully enter your space to search. They must also follow all protocols to ensure that all processes and potential findings are handled correctly to ensure your rights and liberties aren’t violated.
One of the most important rights you have after an arrest is the right to remain silent and hire a South Tucson federal drug crimes lawyer to speak for you, so nothing you say can be used against you.
This is crucial for protecting the outcome of your case. Hire a South Tucson fentanyl possession with intent to distribute lawyer right away to handle your defense and counsel you on how to proceed.
Defenses Your Lawyer May Use Against Fentanyl Charges
When you hire a South Tucson federal crimes lawyer, they will build a defense strategy that leverages the weaknesses and tactics of the prosecution so you have a better chance at a favorable outcome. The defense strategy they choose and customize is an essential part of your case and the ability to exercise your rights. To ensure you have the most effective defense, it’s important to be open and upfront with your lawyer during your case.
With so much on the line, your South Tucson criminal defense lawyer will utilize a few key defenses for this type of offense. Most commonly, they will argue that you lacked knowledge and/or intent to commit the fentanyl offense you are charged with. They will use weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and provide evidence to support your defense to make a strong case against the charges.
Your lawyer will also defend you from violations of your rights, such as illegal searches and seizures. They will also protect you from mishandled evidence or errors in your due process, and can leverage these actions for your defense. It is also important to understand criminal entrapment, as this can also be used as a defense if it applies to your situation.
Fentanyl Offenses Have Profound Ramifications in Arizona
Fentanyl is a narcotic drug according to A.R.S. § 13-3408, and the threshold amount makes a difference in how prosecutors will proceed with your case.
Per A.R.S. § 13-3401, possessing 9 grams of fentanyl makes you automatically eligible for a mandatory minimum prison sentence. It also signals to law enforcement the intent to distribute the drug because of the excess quantity.
Given the strict stance on drug crimes and fentanyl in particular, these offenses generally fall into the category of crimes that warrant federal cases. Federal offenses receive weightier punishments because they are in violation of U.S. laws. Additionally, fentanyl distribution could involve multiple states, which also makes it a federal offense.
Fighting these types of charges and retaining as much freedom as possible requires the aid of an experienced lawyer who knows how to handle these situations effectively.
A former Assistant U.S. Attorney leads Suzuki Law Offices and provides your case the edge it needs with their ability to think like federal prosecutors and build your defense accordingly.
Hire a Fentanyl Possession With Intent to Distribute Attorney in South Tucson to Fight Potential Penalties
A fentanyl possession with intent to distribute is a considerably more serious offense than fentanyl possession. Fentanyl is a highly dangerous narcotic drug that puts the public at risk when it is distributed. As such, the state categorizes this offense as either a Class 2 felony or a Class 3 felony. The details of the offense can make a difference in how the offense is punished.
Most generally, a prison sentence for a first-time Class 2 felony can be anywhere between three years and 12 and a half years, and anytime between two years and eight years and nine months for a Class 3 felony (A.R.S. 13-702). Fentanyl charges are likely to result in a longer prison term, though. An individual could receive five to 20 years in prison instead.
The details of the offense will influence where a sentence may fall within any of these ranges. The amount of the drug, potential prior convictions, aggravating and mitigating factors, and the strength of the case can increase or decrease the penalties in a case. Some individuals may also be eligible for plea bargains or alternative sentencing depending on the circumstances.
Discuss Your Defense With Suzuki Law Offices
Fentanyl charges and penalties can be overwhelming, and Suzuki Law Offices advocates for you and prepares you for the legal process.
We ensure that you have someone protecting your interests and rights so you receive your due process. To talk with a South Tucson fentanyl possession with intent to distribute attorney and start building your defense, schedule a free consultation with our team today.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form