When you are faced with jail or prison time as a result of drug charges, an attorney who has regularly advised and represented clients in criminal drug law matters can help you to achieve a cost-effective and timely resolution. To learn more, contact our firm to schedule a consultation and case evaluation with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
Legal Information About the Defense of Drug Charges
You have been arrested on a drug charge. What next?
Obviously, you need a strong defense of your rights and freedom. You can help in that effort by understanding the legal issues in your case.
At my firm, Robert R. Hart Jr., Attorney at Law, I defend people accused of drug crimes, including possession of marijuana, drug dealing and illegal possession of prescription drugs. I always carefully explain the legal issues that will shape the outcome of a case to a client. This can help you make the right decisions about your legal representation.
Some general information about the defense of drug charges appears below. You probably have additional questions about your case.
In a free consultation, I can review your situation and discuss what my firm can do to defend your rights and freedom.
Free Consultation with a Lawyer — Available 24 / 7
For a free initial consultation with Robert R. Hart Jr., Attorney at Law in Cincinnati, Ohio, call 513-878-1421 or contact the firm online.
Thank you for contacting Robert R. Hart Jr. Your message has been sent.
Call us now
or use the form below.
There may constitutional issues in your case which can provide the means for a successful defense. I review all of these issues to determine if I can exclude damaging evidence or obtain a dismissal of the charge.
If chemical dependency led to your arrest, you may be eligible for a drug court or probation solution. I have helped many people obtain an outcome which provides drug treatment and avoids a conviction and jail time.
Federal Drug Crimes
The Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970, also known as the Controlled Substances Act, classifies narcotics, marijuana and other drugs into five categories, or Schedules. Besides establishing requirements relating to manufacture and distribution of drugs, the law also defines penalties for violations of the Act. Depending on the nature and quantity of the substance involved, as well as the presence of sentence-enhancing factors, the criminal penalties can be severe. If you are facing federal drug charges, consult with an experienced and knowledgeable criminal defense attorney from Robert R. Hart Jr. in Cincinnati, Ohio for advice on the law, your rights and how to proceed.
Offenses at the Federal Level
Federal drug offenses differ from those at the state level, even though the conduct in question might be the same. In defining crimes, Congress' authority comes from its Constitutionally-granted powers over the areas of commerce, taxation and the postal service.
Some of the drug crimes under the Controlled Substances Act include:
- Drug trafficking: manufacturing, distributing or possessing with the intent to distribute illicit drugs
- Manufacturing: operating places for the purposes of manufacturing, distributing, or using illicit drugs, or endangering human life while so doing
- Continuing criminal enterprise crimes: trafficking in illicit drugs by a person in concert with 5 or more other persons
- Conspiracy: involves attempts and the promoting and facilitating of manufacture, distribution, or importation of illicit drugs
- Protected location offenses: distributing illicit drugs to persons under age 21, within a school or playground zone, and employing persons under age 18 in drug operations
- Simple possession: possessing controlled substances without a valid prescription from a licensed medical practitioner. Unlike trafficking, simple possession does not involve intent to distribute the drugs.
Other drug offenses under the Act include investing illicit drug profits in businesses affecting interstate commerce and unauthorized importation of controlled substances. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) enforces the federal controlled substances laws and regulations.
In addition, drug crimes at the federal level may include violations of tax law, such as tax evasion and the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO).
Sentencing under Federal Law
Federal drug laws specify minimum and maximum terms of imprisonment, based on the type and quantity of drug involved. Likewise, under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, these factors are taken into account, along with:
- Whether the offense involved injury to another person
- Whether a weapon was possessed or used
- The defendant's criminal history
While judges have discretion to depart from guidelines, they must still stay within the mandatory minimum and maximum terms specified by statute. Where the offense occurs in a school or other protected zone, penalties may be enhanced.
Contact an Experienced Attorney
Drug crimes can be charged and prosecuted under federal law, state law or both. Because federal drug crimes can carry significantly harsher penalties, it is important to contact an attorney experienced with both federal and state criminal drug law. If you are facing either federal or state drug charges, a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney, like those at Robert R. Hart Jr. in Cincinnati, Ohio can explain the intricacies of both systems and vigorously represent your interests.
Copyright ©2009 FindLaw, a Thomson Business
DISCLAIMER: This site and any information contained herein are intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Seek competent legal counsel for advice on any legal matter.
