Pelham Drug Crime Lawyer
Few issues elicit as great a societal reaction as those surrounding drugs. Those implicated in drug-related crimes might deal with the associated stigma and potentially severe penalties.
The law could allow impacted individuals the opportunity to fight these charges. With the help of a Pelham drug lawyer, you may be able to protect your rights and your future. A criminal defense attorney could champion your case and protect you from any legal ramifications of a conviction.
Controlled Substances in AlabamaThe State of Alabama’s Board of Health defines numerous drugs as controlled substances. Individuals found possessing, selling, or trafficking such items might be in violation of state drug laws and subject to specific penalties. Drug charges cover a broad array of potential offenses. A person that is implicated in a drug-related crime might face charges for:
- Drug possession
- Drug sales or distribution
- Harvest, growing, or producing drugs
- Possessing drug paraphernalia such as pipes or needles
- Drug trafficking
Each offense may be given different criminal classifications and could be subjected to a varying degree of penalties which a knowledgeable attorney could explain.
Possible Penalties for Drug OffensesThe penalties handed may depend upon the severity of the specific drug offense. Criminal offenses are typically classified as misdemeanors and felonies. Misdemeanors are the less severe category and may yield shorter incarceration sentences and fines. Felonies are more serious and could result in extended prison terms and significant financial penalties.
Most drug-related crimes in Alabama are felonies. There may be differing degrees of felonies ranging in severity depending upon the specific crime, the substance in question, and the amount of the controlled substance the individual is found to be in possession of.
Penalties for drug offenses may include:
- Loss of a driver’s license
- A mark on the person’s permanent record
- The inability to find gainful employment
- Difficulties finding housing
- Loss of freedom
- Financial responsibilities
- Being barred from voting
- A Llss in the right to bear arms
It may important to note that an adjudicating body might take additional factors into consideration when determining specific penalties. These may include:
- The number of offenses the individual has
- Whether the offense occurred during the execution of another crime
- Where the incident in question occurred, such as near as school
- If the individual cooperated with authorities in leading to the apprehension of those believed to have committed more serious offenses
A Pelham drug lawyer might be able to identify other factors a court or jury may take into consideration.
How the Prosecution and Defense Build Their CasesProsecuting attorneys will use evidence, witness accounts and expert testimony to demonstrate that the accused is responsible for executing the offense they were charged with. To be successful, prosecutors must prove to an adjudicating body that the offense occurred beyond all reasonable doubts.
A Pelham drug lawyer could formulate a defense strategy to challenge the prosecution’s theory in the drug case. Such actions may be executed by demonstrating the substances in question belonged to another party or establishing that such evidence was tampered with or obtained through illegal means.
Talking to a Pelham Drug AttorneyDrug charges are serious and may have a profound impact upon the lives of those accused. Someone who retains the services of a Pelham drug lawyer may stand a better chance of avoiding such adverse consequences. To learn more, call today.