Busted for Drugs? How to Hire a Drug Defense Attorney

If you have been busted for drugs or have a drug charge the first thing for you to do is find a drug defense lawyer.  If you have been arrested but not charged, your lawyer will try to get the charges dismissed. When you attain a drug defense lawyer you are hiring a guide through the criminal justice system in that state or county. He is your key to freedom but he is also a negotiator when prison time is inevitable. When hiring your lawyer, experience is paramount.  It is not a bad idea to get a referral from other lawyers who might have knowledge of neighboring court cases. The American Bar Association is an even better referral. you need to find out the drug cases he has defended and the outcome.  Also ask what percentage of his practice is dedicated to drug defense.

Obviously, your drug defense attoorney should have knowledge of local laws governing drug charges but dont be afraid to ask.  A good drug lawyer will know the laws and be able to tell you where the case is going and what to expect. your lawyer should be very familiar with the local laws. While these are the laws that got you in this position they can also be a ticket to freedom. your lawyer will know how to use these laws and regulations to your favor.  While experience is number one, it is crucial to have a good lawyer client  relationship.  you should be able to trust him and feel comfortable enough to disclose confidential information.

While your lawyer is your freedom defender, the outcome of your trial will also depend on the extent of the drug charge and local illegal drug laws for that state.  The Controlled Substances Act (C.S.A.) provides federal standards for the classification of illegal drugs and the punishment. For the most part, quantity is the main factor but the purpose of the possesion is another. Intent to sell usually means more time.  Your lawyer might try to dismiss or defend the evidence against you.  Some states punish more harshley than others.  Your drug lawyer might try to get you into a ‘drug court’ program. This is a treatment program, but more importantly a deversion to jail time. if are able to go this route, an evaluation of your drug dependency will be determined.  This intensive treatment is not free but most would agree it beats prison time.  Also, many treatments are based on your income and private insurance.

Whatever your charge, your drug lawyer will know what is best and should exert his expertise in your defense against the drug charge against you.