Drug charges usually involve either the possession of an illegal drug, the sale of an illegal drug or the possession of an illegal drug with the intent to sell. The quantity and type of the drug involved plays a role in determining the type of charge and the ultimate penalty. Drug arrests and convictions often carry stiff penalties for even minor offenses. Many drug convictions are governed by mandatory incarceration in state prison.
Law enforcement agencies are required to adhere to strict guidelines with respect to individuals' rights and it is crucial that you are aware of those rights, that you understand them and that you assert them as early on in the investigative process as possible. How your matter is handled at the inception could easily impact the overall outcome.
An arrest and conviction for any type of drug offense, including marijuana, a controlled substance such as cocaine, and even some prescription drugs, can impact an individual for the rest of their life. If you are faced with a situation involving illegal drugs, it is important to contact an attorney so that immediate action can be taken on your behalf. An experienced attorney can help you to evaluate your options, protect your rights and obtain the best possible result.