Arlington Drug Crime Lawyer

Drug Crime Lawyer Arlington VA

When you are trying to seek help from an Arlington, VA drug crime lawyer who will help you build the best possible defense against a drug charge that you need to avoid experiencing the worst consequences, it is important that you do not wait to act. Criminal defense lawyers are able to offer their counsel, but only if you act before there is little that can be done to help your case. Regardless of the severity of your drug charge or the type of narcotics that you are accused of using, selling, or is in your possession, it is important that you consult a lawyer about your situation. If you are facing a charge involving illegal drugs, you will want to hire a lawyer who has had a strong record of achieving positive results for their clients. If you need urgent legal help fighting a charge against you, set up a consultation with a lawyer from May Law, LLP that you can trust right now.  

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 a 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 a 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 a 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 a lawyer can come to your defense. You gain many advantages by hiring an Arlington drug crime 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 your own 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 a 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. A skilled lawyer will be able to come to your defense and provide you with the legal counsel that you need. They can help you get the results that you are striving for. If you decide not to hire a 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 a qualified drug crime lawyer in your area now. 

Commonly, 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 a person’s life and future opportunities. The first step in fighting a drug possession charge is to meet with an Arlington, Virginia drug crime lawyer at May Law, LLP for guidance. It is best to obtain legal representation immediately after the arrest, so an 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. An Arlington, VA drug crime lawyer can 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, an Arlington, VA drug crime lawyer at May Law, LLP 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 had 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.

An Arlington, VA drug crime lawyer at May Law, LLP 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 a drug crime lawyer Arlington VA clients recommend 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.

If you or someone you know has been charged with a drug crime in Arlington or the surrounding communities, consulting with an experienced drug crime lawyer in Arlington, Virginia should become your priority. 

At May Law, LLP, we have decades of experience with drug crimes cases. We understand the laws, procedures, local, state, and the federal court system, 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. Give May Law, LLP a call to speak with a drug crime lawyer in Arlington, Virginia now. 

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. As a drug crime lawyer Arlington, VA men and women trust, we have helped people who have been charged after an arrest for:

• 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 a drug crime lawyer in Arlington, VA 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. A good drug crime lawyer in Arlington, Virginia 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 a drug crime lawyer in Arlington, Virginia for help and advice on what you should do next. 

Do 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 a 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. An Arlington VA prescription drug offense lawyer may be highly beneficial to you and your freedom.

How a Lawyer Can Help You
Each drug crime lawyer Arlington VA residents trust from May Law, LLP 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 ensure you 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 a 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 an Arlington drug crime lawyer to make sure your rights are protected.

Consequences Of A Drug Conviction

An Arlington, VA drug crime lawyer knows that 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 crucial to understand the potential consequences of a drug conviction is essential for anyone facing charges. Call May Law, LLP 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 a skilled Arlington drug crime lawyer representing you against these charges.

How Can A Drug Conviction 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.

Can A Drug Conviction Affect My 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.

May Law, LLP, Arlington Drug Crime Lawyer

3033 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA 22201

Have You Been Charged?

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. An 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. Contact May Law, LLP to ensure your rights are protected.

Client Review

“Amelia was so responsive to my concerns and needs. She did not waste any time providing me with the assistance I needed. Not only was she knowledgeable and able to provide me with advice, she was personable, friendly, and sensitive to my concerns. I highly recommend May Law, LLP to anyone in need of a lawyer!”
Megan Girvin