Top Rated Drug Crime Attorneys
in Grand Rapids, MI

State laws generally classify these offenses by the schedule of the controlled substance, how much of the drug is involved, and what you were doing with it. Possession, cultivating and manufacturing, and trafficking and distribution are illegal, and most offenses are felonies. Larger amounts of drugs that are higher on the schedule system will lead to more serious charges and harsher penalties for a conviction.

Felonies are serious, and even the lower end offenses could mean a maximum of 2 years in prison. For felonies higher on the scale, the punishment may include up to 20 to 30 years’ incarceration. There are also consequences that affect your life after you serve your sentence. Having a felony conviction on your criminal record may create challenges with employment, finances, housing, and professional licenses.

There are numerous defenses available depending on the facts, and many strategies are based upon police misconduct. If officers conduct an unlawful search and seizure, the evidence against you must be tossed. When a complete defense is not an option, you might work out an agreement with the prosecutor to reduce the charges and penalties.

The fees associated with hiring a defense attorney can differ significantly. Numerous attorneys handle criminal cases using either a flat fee or an hourly rate. Certain attorneys may charge higher fees for cases that are expected to go to trial, while offering lower rates for cases that are resolved through early settlements. To obtain detailed information about our billing structure, we offer a complimentary consultation where you can learn more.

Knowing the government has a lawyer, you need an equally skilled advocate. Your lawyer will be at your side throughout the process, assisting with entering a plea and working out bail. You can also count on skilled representation during pretrial, when you would raise defenses and discuss plea bargaining. At trial, it is essential to have legal counsel with courtroom experience to protect your rights.

State laws generally classify these offenses by the schedule of the controlled substance, the amount of the drug, and what you were doing with it. Larger amounts of drugs high on the schedule system will lead to more serious charges.