Drug Crimes Defense Attorney in Chester County, PA

Drug charges can range from simple misdemeanor possession to serious felonies prosecuted on a federal level. Regardless of the type of charges you may be facing, it is critical to have a seasoned drug defense lawyer to protect your rights. Our drug crime lawyers have years of experience representing clients in cases involving all types of drug-related charges. We are well-versed in the nuances of the law, and believe that anyone who is charged with a crime deserves the best defense possible.

A Drug Defense Lawyer Can Help You Understand Charges

There are different types of drug charges on state and federal levels. The same event can result in charges in both state and federal courts. In Pennsylvania, if you are in possession of a small amount of a controlled substance, you will likely be charged with a misdemeanor. You can also be charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, which is usually in addition to a drug possession charge.

Manufacturing, delivering, or possessing a controlled substance with the intent to deliver or sell typically comes with felony charges.

You may also be charged with a felony if you forge a doctor’s signature or falsify a prescription to obtain drugs. Our drug defense attorneys clearly explain your charges and possible penalties to you in straightforward language that is easy to understand.

Find Out What to Do if You Are Facing Prescription Drug Charges in Pennsylvania.

Drug Schedules

Drugs are separated into “schedules” based on the level of risk or addiction. Penalties for drug crimes depend on the schedule they fall under, the quantity you had in your possession, whether you have had previous convictions, and the specific details of your case.

Schedule I drugs include:

• Heroin
• Marijuana
• LSD
• MDMA
• Peyote

Schedule II Drugs Include:

• Prescription opioids such as Oxycontin, Vicodin, and Percocet
• Methamphetamine
• Methadone
• Cocaine
• Fentanyl
• Ritalin
• Adderall

If you have been charged with Possession with Intent to Deliver (PWID) any of these drugs, you may face very serious charges on the state and federal levels. If you have been arrested, it is critical to contact a drug crime lawyer at Perna & Abracht, LLC right away. The courts may require you to prove the source of any funds used to pay a bail amount, so understanding and initiating this process immediately is crucial for a quick release from Prison.

Penalties for Drug Crimes

There are many different factors that affect sentencing for drug crimes in Pennsylvania. Each case is unique, and penalties depend on whether you are convicted of a misdemeanor or felony offense. Although possession of small amounts of marijuana has been decriminalized in some jurisdictions, it is important to understand how PA marijuana laws may impact your case.

The amount of fines and jail time you may be subject to will depend on your specific charges. They can range anywhere from a few thousand dollars and probation for a misdemeanor, to $25,000 and 15 years in prison for a felony conviction.

In addition to dealing with costly fines, loss of your license, and jail or prison time, a drug conviction can have an adverse impact on all areas of your life. A criminal record can affect your ability to get a job, rent a home, or obtain loans, and could result in loss of custody rights if you have children.

How Our Drug Crime Lawyers Can Help

Our drug defense lawyers ensure your rights are protected, fight for no or low bail, investigate the charges against you, gather evidence, and develop defense strategies to get charges dismissed or reduced. We can also assist you with negotiating a plea if that is your preference. We provide the legal counsel you can trust, and give you all the information you need to make informed decisions.

Drug Crime FAQs

Why Do I Need a Drug Crime Lawyer?

Having an experienced lawyer by your side can make all the difference when it comes to achieving the best possible outcome for your case. Each case is unique, and building a solid defense requires the knowledge and experience of seasoned drug crime attorneys. Our defense lawyers have decades of experience and have likely handled cases similar to yours.

How Much Does a Drug Crime Lawyer Cost?

How much a criminal defense attorney will cost depends on the specific circumstances of your case. Some attorneys charge flat fees while others bill an hourly rate. The more complex a case is, the more time and resources a drug crime attorney will need to devote to it. Court costs and expenses such as expert witnesses and investigators should also be taken into consideration. Our criminal defense attorneys discuss fees with you before we take on your case. If you have any specific questions about how much a drug crime lawyer costs, please do not hesitate to ask.

What are Possible Defenses for Drug Crimes?

There are several common defenses drug crime lawyers may employ, including:

• Unlawful search and seizure, including lack of probable cause or a search warrant
• Drugs belong to someone else
• Entrapment – when a member of law enforcement induces someone to commit a criminal act they would not have otherwise committed
• Lack of intent to distribute
• Lack of evidence
• Chain of evidence issues
• Medical marijuana exemptions
• Other defenses specific to your case

What is Drug Court?

In Pennsylvania, drug court is a diversionary program that helps drug offenders break the cycle of crime and addiction. Typically, the program is available to defendants who have been charged with non-violent drug possession charges. Instead of incarceration, those who are eligible for drug court must go through drug and alcohol rehabilitation, mandatory drug testing, and intensive judicial supervision. Once all requirements are complete, they may be able to have charges dismissed and their record expunged.

What Should I Expect from Your Drug Crime Lawyers?

At Perna & Abracht, LLC, we understand that being convicted of a crime is life-changing. There are many different variables that affect how we may approach your drug crime case.  Our familiarity with local courts, prosecutors, judges, and law enforcement helps us effectively negotiate to have charges reduced or dismissed when possible. Both state and federal drug crime laws are complex – we stay on the cutting edge of developments in the law to provide the best defense possible.  

Our team also helps defendants and their families cope with feelings of shame, fear, and anxiety that often arise when someone is facing criminal charges. We are here for you, but also give you straightforward legal advice that gives you a realistic view of your situation. Our drug crime attorneys give you an objective perspective on how taking a plea bargain or going to trial may play out. We are dedicated to guiding you through the process every step of the way, and providing the competent, compassionate legal support you need.

If you have a specific legal question that you would like answered without any obligation to retain our firm, please schedule a complimentary 30-minute consultation with one of our attorneys below.

Schedule a Consultation Here

Contact a Drug Defense Attorney

If you or a loved one is facing drug crime charges in Southeastern Pennsylvania, contact us online or call 610-708-1970 to schedule a free consultation with our experienced Chester County criminal defense attorneys today.

Related Links:

• Facing Drug DUI Charges in Pennsylvania? Here’s What You Need to Know.