DRUG POSESSION CHARGES
In any given drug case, we look either for ways to defeat the case against you on the basis of constitutional search and seizure problems, or determine your eligibility for diversion or treatment programs that can steer your drug case away from the criminal justice system. We work closely with our clients to see which of two possible approaches is likely to work best for them.
Our lawyers can represent you in the state of Oregon if your case involves:
Marijuana: Possession can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the amount.
Prescription drugs: Drugs like Vicodin and OxyContin can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges.
Methamphetamine or Ecstasy: Possession is considered a felony.
Heroin: Classified as a felony possession.
Cocaine: Also a felony possession.
In addition to helping you avoid jail time whenever possible, we may be able to keep certain possession offenses off your record through probation or treatment sentencing alternatives. When beneficial, we will utilize substance abuse evaluations to leverage rehabilitative options.
By combining strategic legal defenses with alternative sentencing and rehabilitation, our approach ensures that every possible avenue is explored to minimize exposure to jail time and penalties.
LEGAL ASSISTANCE - DRUG POSSESSION CHARGES
At Oliveros Law Group we are here to help you resolve the case on terms that minimize both your exposure to punishment and the consequences a drug charge arrest or conviction might have on your employment prospects, academic status, or professional license.
How Does Local Court Experience Benefit a Defense Attorney in Drug Possession Cases?
When it comes to defending against drug possession charges, the value of local court experience cannot be overstated. Attorneys seasoned in the nuances of local judicial systems bring unique advantages to the table, crucial for crafting an effective defense strategy.
Deep Understanding of Local Laws and Procedures
Every state—and often every county—has its own set of laws and legal procedures. An attorney with extensive experience in local courts is intimately familiar with these specific regulations and practices. This knowledge allows them to navigate the legal landscape more precisely, ensuring nothing is overlooked in your defense.
Established Relationships with Court Personnel
Having worked alongside local judges, prosecutors, and other court staff, our experienced attorneys can leverage these relationships to their client's advantage. Understanding the preferences and tendencies of particular judges or prosecutors enables them to anticipate potential challenges and proactively tailor their strategies.
Insight into Typical Outcomes
Years of local experience mean these attorneys have seen how similar drug possession cases have been handled in the past. This familiarity can help in predicting likely outcomes, enabling more realistic expectation-setting and strategic planning for defendants.
Personalized Defense Strategies
Knowing the local penal system's intricacies allows attorneys to explore a wider range of defense options, such as diversion programs or plea bargains, aiming to minimize penalties. Their track record in the local arena ensures they know which tactics are likely to succeed, leading to reduced exposure to jail time or fines.
In essence, a defense attorney's local court experience is a strategic asset that can make a significant difference in drug possession cases. Their deep-rooted knowledge and established court relationships streamline the defense process, optimizing outcomes for their clients.
What Other Criminal Defense Topics Might a Drug Possession Lawyer Also Address?
When a lawyer specializes in drug possession cases, they often have a broad understanding of related criminal defense topics. Here's a glimpse into some areas they might also cover:
Major Offenses: This can include defense against felony charges and serious crimes like assault and domestic violence, which often have overlapping legal considerations with drug-related offenses.
Domestic and Child Matters: Legal expertise in matters involving family, such as issues of domestic abuse or child endangerment, is another area where these lawyers may excel.
Drug-Related Violations: Aside from possession, they might handle cases involving drug distribution, manufacturing, and the unlawful delivery of substances.
Alcohol-Related Incidents: Expertise often extends to offenses like driving under the influence (DUI) and operating while intoxicated (OWI), which can have drug-related components.
Property and Personal Crimes: This can cover theft and burglary, areas sometimes interconnected with drug dependency and financial motives.
Critically Serious Charges: Defense against charges involving firearms, sexual offenses, and white-collar crimes such as fraud or embezzlement might also fall within their purview.
Youth Offenses: Involvement in juvenile cases provides insight into how minors interact with the legal system, often tied to drug use or peer-influenced criminal behavior.
Such expertise allows these lawyers to offer a robust defense across this spectrum, ensuring comprehensive legal support.
How to Contact a Drug Possession Defense Lawyer for Legal Assistance
If you're facing drug possession charges and need legal help, reaching out to a defense lawyer can be a crucial step. Here's how you can do it effectively:
Search Online for Local Attorneys
Use search engines to find defense lawyers in your area. Keywords like "drug possession defense lawyer near me" can yield helpful results.
Check Legal Directories
Websites like Avvo, FindLaw, or Justia provide detailed profiles of lawyers, including their areas of expertise, client reviews, and contact information.
Visit Law Firm Websites
Most law firms offer easy-to-navigate websites where you can find contact forms or direct email addresses to reach their legal team.
Utilize Social Media
Look up lawyers on platforms like LinkedIn or Twitter. Legal professionals often share valuable insights and their contact details here.
Call Directly for a Consultation
Many law offices provide phone consultations. Prepare a list of questions and call during office hours to inquire about your case.
Schedule a Meeting
Once you've identified potential lawyers, schedule a consultation. This initial meeting is often free and can help you determine if the lawyer suits your needs.
By following these steps, you can find a skilled attorney ready to assist you with your drug possession case.
Contact Oliveros Law Group Today
II. TYPES OF DRUG CHARGES
Our drug charge attorneys represent adults throughout the Portland area on a variety of drug possession or distribution charges, including:
Methamphetamine Possession, Sales, or Manufacturing Charges: Possession of methamphetamine is typically charged as a felony due to its high potential for abuse and addiction. Our legal team is experienced in navigating these serious charges.
Cocaine or Crack Possession or Distribution: As a felony, possession or distribution of cocaine and crack carries severe penalties. We work diligently to mitigate the consequences.
Prescription Fraud: Involves obtaining prescription drugs through deceitful means, often leading to complex legal situations.
Unlawful Possession of Prescription Drugs or Painkillers: Possessing drugs like Vicodin and OxyContin without a valid prescription can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, based on the circumstances and quantities involved.
Possession or Sale of Hallucinogens, Club Drugs, or So-called Date Rape Drugs: These substances, including ecstasy, often result in felony charges due to their dangerous and illegal nature.
Possession, Manufacture (Growing), or Distribution of Marijuana: While laws around marijuana are evolving, possession can still range from a misdemeanor to a felony, particularly in cases involving large amounts or intent to distribute.
Possession with Intent to Sell: Any drug charge that includes intent to distribute is treated with heightened severity, often as a felony. Our attorneys are skilled in defending against such allegations.
If your drug charge case is a good candidate for resolution through diversion, substance abuse treatment or continuance to dismissal, our thorough understanding of the available programs allows us to use our negotiating skills to protect your record.
On the other hand, if the circumstances of your arrest or the discovery of drugs in your car or home indicate a likelihood that the evidence of possession can be kept out of court, we will likely aim for an early dismissal of the case against you.
III. RESOLUTION STRATEGIES
The Role of Substance Abuse Evaluations in Drug Possession Defense Strategies
Substance abuse evaluations can be a pivotal component in crafting defense strategies for drug possession cases. These assessments help to uncover the underlying factors contributing to an individual's drug use, offering a comprehensive view of the situation at hand.
Key Benefits:
Insight into Behavior: Evaluations provide detailed analysis on how substance use affects the defendant’s behavior and choices. This insight can influence the legal approach to the case.
Rehabilitation Focus: Courts often take a more lenient view when defendants show a willingness to address their issues. Substance abuse evaluations can suggest appropriate treatment programs, showcasing the defendant’s commitment to recovery.
Customized Defense: By understanding the extent and nature of substance use, defense teams like those from Greenberg Traurig and Morgan & Morgan can tailor their strategies. This personalized approach may result in reduced charges or alternative sentencing options.
Evidence in Court: These evaluations can serve as critical evidence, demonstrating the need for rehabilitation rather than punitive measures. They depict the defendant not merely as an offender but as someone in need of help.
In summary, substance abuse evaluations equip legal teams with the necessary tools to negotiate better outcomes for defendants by highlighting rehabilitation as a viable and often preferable option.
How Can Probation or Treatment Alternatives Be Used in Drug Possession Cases?
Probation and treatment alternatives provide significant benefits in drug possession cases by offering a way to potentially avoid jail time and maintain a clean record. These approaches can be particularly effective when they include rehabilitative measures like substance abuse evaluations.
Probation as a Route to Record Protection:
Instead of serving time behind bars, individuals might be placed on probation, allowing them to remain within the community under specific conditions. This often includes regular check-ins with a probation officer and adherence to court-mandated guidelines.Treatment Programs and Rehabilitative Support:
For those facing drug possession charges, enrolling in a treatment program can serve as an alternative sentencing option. These programs focus on addressing the root causes of substance abuse, thereby promoting long-term recovery and reducing the likelihood of reoffending.Leveraging Evaluations:
Substance abuse evaluations matter because they help tailor treatment plans to an individual's specific needs. By properly understanding the level and impact of addiction, courts can recommend more personalized and effective rehabilitation paths.
In essence, the combination of probation and alternative sentencing through treatment focuses on rehabilitation rather than punishment, fostering a supportive environment for personal growth and societal reintegration.