Anyone who has been arrested for a drug charge in Virginia understands how punitive many of the laws prohibiting the possession and sale of controlled substances are. A simple possession charge can leave a person with a criminal record that will follow him or her for decades. Possession of a more than a small amount of a drug can lead to charges for selling drugs, even if the individual had no intention of selling or distributing anything.

Innocent people are often caught up in drug cases, facing felony charges for being in the wrong place at the wrong time. If you are arrested for drug charges in Charlottesville, Virginia, a conviction can lead to serious prison time, a criminal record, and the loss of certain rights. Before pleading guilty to drug charges, contact me to fight the criminal charges.

Virginia Drug and Controlled Substance Crimes

I provide legal representation in all drug and controlled substance crimes in Virginia, including the following.

• Drug possession § 18.2-250
• Possession with intent to distribute § 18.2-248
• Possession of drug paraphernalia § 18.2-265.3
• Drug distribution § 18.2-248
• Drug trafficking § 18.2-248.01
• Drug DUI § 18.2-266
• Prescription drug fraud § 18.2-258.1

Drug Crime Penalties in Virginia

Simple drug possession (possession of a small amount of marijuana) is a misdemeanor. Misdemeanor offenses are punishable by up to 12 months in jail. However, a first-time offense for possession can be eligible for probation to defer criminal proceedings. Probation can require substance abuse treatment and education, drug testing, and community service.

Selling drugs, possession of large amounts of a controlled substance, or bringing drugs over state lines into Virginia are treated very seriously. These crimes are felony offenses that carry severe prison penalties. For example, transporting drugs into Virginia with the intent to sell can result in up to 40 years in prison.

A felon will face serious consequences even after serving time. This includes following the terms of probation for years after release. Felons may also face problems trying to get a job, find housing, obtaining benefits, and will be prohibited from owning a gun.

Defenses to Drug Crime Charges

There may be a number of legal defenses to drug possession or other drug crime charges in your specific case. I will investigate your case to determine the best drug defense strategies for your case.

• Unlawful search and seizure by the police,
• Police officer misconduct,
• Improper drug testing,
• Challenging the amount of controlled substance,
• Another person was in possession of the drugs,
• Alleged paraphernalia had a non-drug related use, and
• The defendant had lawful possession of prescription drugs.

Charlottesville Drug Crime Defense Lawyer

If you have been charged with drug possession or possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance in Charlottesville, contact attorney me today for a free consultation. Each case is unique but depending on the case, I may be able to help you have your charges dismissed, obtain a not guilty verdict, or minimize the negative impact of a conviction.