Defending Your Rights. Protecting Your Future.

How do you defend against drug charges?

On Behalf of | Aug 31, 2022 | Drug Crimes

When you face drug charges, it can feel like the world is crashing down on you. You may be worried about your future and what this means for your life. 

So, knowing what to expect and how to protect your rights is important. 

Understand your rights and use them

Being arrested on drug charges can be a frightening experience. The police may question you, but you are not required to answer any questions. In general, it is best to remain polite and cooperative with the police, but you should not try to explain your situation – because you don’t want to accidentally incriminate yourself in any way. It is also important to avoid talking about your case with anyone else, as prosecutors can use anything you say against you.

Depending on the quantity of drugs found in your possession, you may be charged with a felony or a misdemeanor. If you are charged with a misdemeanor, you will face up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. A state felony charge, depending on the type and amount of drugs, may include up to eleven years in prison and a $20,000 fine. 

Several different defenses may be available if you are arrested on drug charges in Ohio. For example, your defense might be that:

  • The drugs were not yours, and you did not know they were there.
  • The police did not have probable cause to search you or your property. 
  • You were a victim of entrapment or coerced by a third party against your will.

You will want legal representation to guide you through the court process. They can evaluate your case and determine which defenses may be applicable. If necessary, they can negotiate a plea deal with the prosecutor on your behalf and protect your rights.