Drug offenses
Drug offenses are among the most serious charges one can face.
The state and federal governments both maintain a long list of drug crimes, with severe penalties in both systems for conviction, including lengthy, multi-year prison sentences and steep fines in the thousands of dollars. Police and prosecutors are eager to make drug arrests and prosecute individuals to the fullest extent of the law, so they can be shown to be effective in getting drugs and drug dealers off the street. Unfortunately, innocent people are often caught up in this zeal, or persons are charged and pursued in much greater proportion to their role in any actual crime. North Carolina drug crime lawyer Damon Chetson provides a strong, aggressive defense of persons charged with drug crimes in Henderson, Vance and Wake counties. At The Chetson Firm, we fight to ensure that you receive a fair trial, that your rights are protected, and that you are afforded an effective defense that fits your particular situation.
Drug Stop Or Arrest
The Chetson Firm can help you with an aggressive defense of any of the following types of charges:
Possession
Possession is a Class 1 or Class 2 misdemeanor, depending upon the type of drugs and amount involved. In most cases, marijuana possession is a Class 3 misdemeanor, and any jail sentence will be suspended rather than imposed. However, possession of more than half an ounce of marijuana can be charged as a Class 1 misdemeanor, with up to a year in jail at stake.
Possession with Intent
Possession of drugs with the intent to sell or distribute them, or the manufacture or sale of drugs, is a felony. Although it may be possible to get probation instead of prison time if convicted, an offender will still have a felony conviction record, which can haunt you in many ways. A strong, aggressive defense of any felony charge is important.
Trafficking
Trafficking can be charged as a state or federal offense. Conviction most often results in a mandatory minimum jail sentence, unless you agree to cooperate with the government in providing substantial assistance to help them catch bigger traffickers. You would need to act quickly while any information you had was still useful, and you would need the help of a lawyer to negotiate or review an agreement with the government to make sure it is truly in your best interests.
Getting caught transporting, distributing or just being in possession of large amounts of marijuana, meth, cocaine, heroin or other substances can result in the very serious charge of trafficking. Penalties for trafficking range from two years to more than 20 years in prison, depending upon the drug and the amount involved.
At the Chetson Firm, we go to work right away investigating your case and building your defense with the goal of getting you the best outcome possible, including a dismissal or reduction of charges, a not guilty verdict or acquittal, or diversion to drug treatment instead of incarceration.
Help is Available from an Effective North Carolina Drug Crime Lawyer
If you have been arrested for possession, intent, trafficking or other drug crimes in North Carolina state or federal court, contact Damon Chetson at our offices in Raleigh, North Carolina to evaluate your options with a knowledgeable and experienced Wake County drug crime lawyer.
