Arlington Drug Crime Lawyer

Drug Crime Lawyer Arlington VA

If you’ve been accused of a drug crime, our experienced Arlington, VA drug crime lawyer at May Law, LLP is here to help you build a strong defense. It’s critical to act quickly to avoid the worst legal consequences—delaying could limit your options. No matter the severity of the charges or the type of drug involved, whether it’s possession, trafficking, or distribution, consulting our skilled lawyers is essential. With a proven track record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients, May Law, LLP is dedicated to protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible result. We advocate for your family, your finances, and your freedom. For urgent legal help, schedule a consultation with us today.

About Drug Charges 

A drug charge should never be ignored or taken lightly no matter how minor the charge may be. Any kind of drug conviction will stay on your criminal record and can affect you for many years. Whether it is the first drug charge that you have received or you have already had a prior conviction, you should not hesitate to speak with our lawyer who has the legal experience to help you. Though many drug charges do not go to trial, getting quality legal help should still be a top priority. With our competent lawyer at your side, you have a much better chance at reducing your drug charges or having them eliminated completely. 

Why Hire A Lawyer 

There are many reasons why you would want to hire our lawyer if you are facing a serious criminal charge. Any kind of criminal charge should be taken seriously and should not be ignored. There are many things that you may need personalized assistance with, and our lawyer can come to your defense. You gain many advantages by hiring our Arlington lawyer, such as legal representation, legal advice, and context about your case. You are much more likely to get the outcome that you want if you hire our lawyer to defend you instead of relying on a public defender. 

Legal Help Is Available 

No matter what kind of charges that you are facing, from a small infraction to a felony, you will want to speak to our lawyer so that you can understand what your legal options are. Anyone who is facing a serious drug charge, whether or not they have previously been charged or convicted, deserves excellent legal representation. Our skilled lawyer will come to your defense and provide you with the legal counsel that you need. We can help you get the results that you are striving for. If you decide not to hire our lawyer and have no idea how to defend yourself against the charge, you can suffer serious consequences that can impact your life. For more information about legal services, set up a consultation with our qualified drug crime attorney in your area now. 

DWI charges may also elicit drug possession charges as well.

Strategies for Fighting a Drug Possession Charge

Being arrested for drug possession and then facing a misdemeanor or felony charge is a serious offense that can have long-term repercussions for the accused. As much of a temptation it may be to hide away and act like everything will be okay, taking action without delay can help prevent this charge from negatively impacting your life and your future opportunities. The first step in fighting a drug possession charge is to meet with our Arlington drug crime attorney for guidance. It is best to obtain legal representation immediately after the arrest, so our attorney can begin planning a strategy in your defense.

Procedural Error During Arrest

When it comes to a drug possession charge, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were aware of and had control over the drug. We may be able to defend you by stating the prosecution has failed to properly prove that these elements applied to your arrest. For instance, possible strategies could be that the officer who arrested you performed an illegal search, so your rights were violated and the drugs confiscated should not be used against you. Sadly, in many instances, there was a procedural error during the arrest, but the accused doesn’t realize this because they don’t understand criminal defense legalities.

Faulty Laboratory Testing

After evaluating your case, our criminal defense attorney may decide to argue that there is not enough proof that the drug found in possession is in fact illegal. The substance taken at the time of the arrest is often submitted to a laboratory for testing. However, it is possible the testing equipment malfunctioned, the sample was mishandled, or the substance was lost entirely. This type of scenario doesn’t happen too often, but it can and may be a useful defense strategy.

Beyond Reasonable Doubt

As stated above, the prosecution must have sufficient evidence to convince the judge that you were in possession of the substance beyond a reasonable doubt. Perhaps you had been driving loved ones around in your vehicle, and one of them was in possession of an illegal drug. The drug may have fallen out of their pocket or purse without you knowing. Then, an officer pulls you over and sees the substance tucked near the passenger side door or elsewhere in plain view.

Our Arlington, VA drug crime attorney can advocate for your innocence in that the drugs belonged to someone else. The key concept here is that the burden of evidence is heavily on the prosecution. So, if they cannot bring forward enough proof to show you are guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, you won’t be convicted of the drug possession charge.

We highly encourage anyone who has been arrested on a drug possession charge, to meet with our attorney at May Law, LLP as soon as possible. The sooner you reach out, the sooner was can begin building your defense. Call us right away so we can support you, and help protect you from suffering harsh punishments. 

Drug Crime Defense in Arlington, VA

At May Law, LLP, we have decades of experience with drug crimes cases. We understand the laws, procedures, local, state, and the federal court systems, and know that time is of the essence. As you read this, the prosecutor will be building a case against you or the person who has been charged. The longer you wait, the more you might risk. If you or someone you know has been charged with a drug crime in Arlington or the surrounding communities, consulting with our experienced drug crime attorney in Arlington, Virginia should become your priority.

Drug Crime Cases We Handle

• Possession
• Trafficking
• Distribution
• Cultivation
• Transportation
• Under the Influence 
• Federal Drug Crimes
• Multiple Offense Drug Crimes
• Drug and Violence Crimes

Prescription Drug Crimes

Drug crimes are not limited to cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, marijuana, or other illegal substances. Rather, they also apply to legal drugs, such as prescription medications. These are considered to be the most trafficked drug in Virginia and often come from places like Florida where “doctor shopping” is common. The laws around the possession of prescription drugs are very strict. If you are found guilty of breaking these laws, you could be charged with trafficking, illegal possession, or distribution. We have helped people who have been charged after an arrest for possessing:

• Oxycontin
• Opana
• Adderall
• Fentanyl
• Xanax
• Valium
• + More

Laws encompassing drug crimes, particularly prescription medications, can be interpreted in various ways. If you’re not familiar with these laws, you should ask our criminal defense lawyer to help you.

Defenses That May Be Used

The term ‘drug crime’ is broad and can entail many circumstances and factors ranging from cultivation and sale, transportation, or simply possession. The severity of the penalties, in the event you are found guilty, can vary and will largely depend on the type of drugs, the amount, and whether you have a previous criminal record. 

In order to be convicted of a drug crime, the prosecutor will need to prove:

• You were aware of the existence of the drug
• The substance is not legal
• You were in control of the location and presence of the substance

If these things cannot be proven, beyond a reasonable doubt,  your charges may be dismissed or reduced. We will prepare a defense based upon the available evidence and in a way that argues against what the prosecutor is trying to prove. Without the right lawyer on your side, it is certainly possible for important pieces of evidence to be missed. The last thing you want to happen is to be convicted of a crime that you are not guilty of. Sadly, this happens everyday, and often because of mistakes, misinterpretations, or miscommunications. Don’t let this happen to you. Call our defense lawyer in Arlington, Virginia for help and advice on what you should do next. 

When You Need a Prescription Drug Offense Lawyer

If you find yourself answering ‘yes’ to any of these questions, you might want to call May Law, LLP as soon as possible:

• Have you accused of illegal prescription drug possession or trafficking?
• Were you caught in a sting operation and are now being charged?
• Do you believe someone set you up?
• Are you a medical professional who was extorted into using your license to prescribe?
• Is your chronic pain so bad that you sought an unlawful approach to self-medicate?

Should you have been accused, arrested, or charged with a prescription drug offense, call today.

How You Could Be Charged Even with a Valid Prescription

Prescription drugs are legal but only when you are the prescribed person. It is possible to be arrested in Arlington. VA or elsewhere for a prescription drug if you are not able to produce the prescription. In general, if you can do so later on, and it is valid and verifiable, you will likely not be prosecuted. There are circumstances in which the prosecutor might still elect to charge you with an offense. These could include:

• You did not have the prescription on you (rare charge).
• You were driving under the influence.
• Evidence suggested you intended to sell your prescription.
• You were caught sharing your prescription.
• The prescription was found in another form (i.e. crushed for snorting).

Whether you had a prescription or not, it may be in your best interest to speak with our prescription drug offense lawyer for further advice.

Being Charged without a Prescription

If you have been caught with any of the following medications and did not have a valid prescription for them, you might face large fines and fees, jail or prison time, probation, community service, or a permanent record.

• Oxycontin
• Vicodin
• Oxycodone
• Percodan
• Percocet
• Lortab
• Lorcet
• Dilaudid
• Demerol
• Dexedrine
• Concerta
• Ritalin
• Opana
• Adderall
• Xanax
• Ambien
• Lunesta
• Ativan
• Valium
• Fentanyl
• Methadone
• Codeine
• Amytal
• Roxanal
• Sublimaze
• Dolophine
• Duramorph
• Librium

The aforementioned list is not exhaustive. If your case involves charges of the intent to sell, the penalties could be more severe. Our Arlington, VA prescription drug offense lawyer may be highly beneficial to you and your freedom.

How a Lawyer Can Help You

Our criminal defense lawyer has extensive legal experience helping people fight drug charges. We understand that in these types of cases it is not necessarily the type of drug, but how it was found and what the criminal charges associated with it might be. Our knowledge and dedication can help to protect your rights and help you to get the best possible defense. Our goal will be to clear you of the charges. If this is not possible, we will seek the least severe sanctions with the prosecutor and judge.

For a consultation with our prescription drug offense lawyer, please call today.

Arlington Drug Crime Statistics

In Virginia, drug-related offenses constitute a significant portion of criminal convictions. There are approximately 2,500 drug-related convictions each year, accounting for 10 percent of all criminal convictions in the state.

If you have been charged with a drug offense, call our Arlington drug lawyer to make sure your rights are protected.

Drug Crimes FAQs

Drug convictions can have far-reaching consequences that extend beyond fines or jail time. These penalties can affect a person’s career, finances, and personal life for years. If you have been charged with a drug crime, it is essential to understand the potential consequences of a drug conviction. Call our criminal defense firm to learn more.

What Are the Legal Penalties For A Drug Conviction?

The legal penalties for a drug conviction vary widely depending on the nature of the offense, the type and quantity of drugs involved, and whether the offense is charged as a misdemeanor or felony. Common penalties include:

• Fines: Convictions often carry substantial fines, ranging from a few hundred dollars for minor offenses to tens of thousands for felonies.
• Jail or prison time: Minor possession charges may result in probation or short jail sentences, while trafficking or manufacturing offenses often lead to lengthy prison terms.
• Probation: Some convictions result in probation, which requires regular check-ins with a probation officer, drug testing, and compliance with strict conditions.
• Community service: Courts may impose community service hours as part of sentencing.

For more severe offenses, such as drug trafficking or repeat violations, penalties escalate significantly. Federal charges, in particular, carry mandatory minimum sentences, leaving judges with little discretion. This is why it is critical to have our skilled Arlington drug crime attorney representing you against these charges.

How Will A Drug Conviction May Affect Employment?

A drug conviction can have a significant impact on a person’s employment prospects. Many employers conduct background checks, and a criminal record may disqualify candidates from certain jobs or promotions. Specific consequences include:

• Job loss: Employers may terminate employees convicted of drug-related offenses, especially if the job involves security clearance, driving, or handling sensitive materials.
• Difficulty finding new employment: A conviction can make it harder to secure jobs, particularly in industries like healthcare, education, or government work.
• Impact on professional licenses: Workers in regulated professions, such as nursing, law, or teaching, may lose their licenses or face disciplinary action due to a drug conviction.

While some states have laws restricting employers from discriminating based on criminal records, the stigma of a drug conviction often creates barriers to career advancement.

How A Drug Conviction Affects Education Or Housing?

Yes, a drug conviction can impact both education and housing opportunities, often in ways people don’t anticipate. Educational consequences include:

• Loss of financial aid: A drug conviction can make students ineligible for federal financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study programs.
• Disciplinary action: Colleges and universities may suspend or expel students convicted of drug offenses, which can impact their academic progress and future prospects.
• Scholarship loss: Students receiving scholarships may lose them if the terms include maintaining a clean criminal record.

Housing consequences are also significant. Landlords often conduct background checks, and a drug conviction can result in:

• Eviction: Public housing authorities may evict tenants convicted of drug-related crimes, even if the offense occurred off the premises.
• Denial of rental applications: Private landlords may refuse to rent to individuals with a criminal record, making it difficult to secure stable housing.

How Does A Drug Conviction Impact Personal And Family Life?

The personal and social repercussions of a drug conviction can be profound. Families often bear the emotional and financial strain caused by the consequences of a conviction. Specific impacts include:

• Custody and visitation rights: Parents convicted of drug crimes may face challenges retaining custody or visitation rights, particularly if the offense involved child endangerment.
• Immigration consequences: For non-citizens, a drug conviction can lead to deportation, denial of naturalization, or exclusion from re-entering the U.S.
• Social stigma: A criminal record can damage relationships and lead to isolation from friends, family, and the community.
• Financial strain: The costs of fines, legal fees, and lost income can burden families, sometimes leading to long-term financial hardship.

These personal consequences highlight the lasting impact of a drug conviction, which often extends well beyond the legal penalties.

Arlington Drug Crime Glossary

If you’re facing drug-related charges, understanding the terminology associated with your case is vital. At May Law, LLP, our team has been serving clients in Arlington, Prince William, Fairfax, and across Northern Virginia since 1995. We offer strong and dedicated legal representation in criminal defense, including drug-related offenses. Below are key terms you may encounter in drug crime cases and how they could affect your situation.

Controlled Substance

A controlled substance refers to a drug or chemical whose manufacture, possession, or use is regulated by the government. These substances are categorized into schedules based on their potential for abuse and accepted medical use. For example, Schedule I drugs like heroin have a high potential for abuse and no recognized medical use, while Schedule V drugs, such as certain cough medicines, have a lower potential for abuse.

In drug crime cases, the type and schedule of the controlled substance play a significant role in determining the severity of charges and penalties. We focus on clarifying these distinctions for our clients and advocating for fair outcomes.

Possession With Intent To Distribute

This charge arises when someone is found in possession of a controlled substance alongside evidence that suggests the drugs were intended for sale or distribution. Common indicators include large quantities of the substance, scales, packaging materials, or significant cash amounts.

Possession with intent to distribute often carries harsher penalties than simple possession. Our attorneys challenge the evidence and intent behind these accusations to provide the strongest defense possible for our clients.

Reasonable Suspicion

Reasonable suspicion is the legal threshold that allows law enforcement to investigate potential criminal activity. In drug-related cases, this could involve traffic DUI stops or searches based on suspicious behavior. However, actions taken without reasonable suspicion can violate constitutional rights and lead to the suppression of evidence.

Our attorneys thoroughly review the circumstances surrounding any stop or search to determine if law enforcement acted improperly. Protecting your rights is our top priority.

Constructive Possession

Constructive possession occurs when someone is charged with drug possession even if the substance was not physically on their person. To prove constructive possession, prosecutors must show that the accused had knowledge of the drug’s presence and control over its location.

For instance, if drugs are found in a shared vehicle, it must be proven that the accused was aware of and had access to the drugs. We examine these situations closely to challenge unwarranted charges.

Suppression Of Evidence

Suppression of evidence is a legal strategy used to exclude evidence obtained through unconstitutional or illegal methods, such as a warrantless search or a violation of your rights. For example, if law enforcement conducted a search without probable cause, any evidence found during that search may be deemed inadmissible in court.

This strategy is a cornerstone of many drug crime defenses. Our attorneys carefully analyze the evidence and the procedures used during your arrest to identify any grounds for suppression.

Contact Us Today

Facing drug charges can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At May Law, LLP, we’ve been helping clients defend their rights and protect their futures for decades. Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you achieve the best possible outcome.

May Law, LLP, Arlington Drug Crime Lawyer

3033 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA 22201

Facing Your Charges Head-On

A drug conviction can significantly affect every aspect of a person’s life, from legal penalties like fines and incarceration to long-term consequences for employment, education, and family stability. Our experienced Arlington drug crime lawyer can help explore defenses, negotiate plea agreements, or seek alternatives like rehabilitation programs to mitigate the impact of a conviction. Our attorneys have handled hundreds of trials, giving us the confidence to present evidence and argue effectively in court. With our trusted legal team, you can feel assured whether you’re facing a courtroom or negotiating a settlement. Contact May Law, LLP to protect your legal rights after a drug charge. Schedule a case review today.