CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY
Drug Possession
Representing Clients In Macomb, Washtenaw and Wayne County.
Experienced Drug Possession Lawyer in Michigan
Drug possession charges in Michigan can have serious consequences. If you or a loved one has been charged with drug possession in Detroit or elsewhere in Michigan, it is crucial to understand the charges and potential penalties you may face. At Duplessis Law, we are here to help. Our experienced criminal defense attorney, Ashlee Duplessis, can provide you with the legal assistance you need to fight against drug possession charges.
Overview of Drug Possession in Michigan
In Michigan, drug possession laws categorize controlled substances into different schedules based on their potential for abuse, medical value, and level of danger per the government’s assessment of them. Here is a breakdown of the different substances under each schedule:
Schedule 1: These drugs have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. They include heroin, LSD, ecstasy, and marijuana (despite its recent legalization in Michigan).
Schedule 2: These drugs also have a high potential for abuse but have some accepted medical use. They include cocaine, methamphetamine, Adderall, and oxycodone.
Schedule 3: These drugs have a lower potential for abuse than those in Schedule 1 and 2, and have an accepted medical use. They include anabolic steroids, ketamine, and some barbiturates.
Schedule 4: These drugs have a low potential for abuse compared to the previous schedules, and have an accepted medical use. They include Xanax, Valium, and Tramadol.
Schedule 5: These drugs have a lower potential for abuse than the previous schedules, and have an accepted medical use. They include cough suppressants with codeine and some anti-seizure medications.
It’s important to note that drug possession charges in Michigan are serious and can lead to severe penalties, regardless of the drug schedule. If you are facing drug possession charges, it’s crucial to seek the help of an experienced drug possession attorney.
Penalties for Drug Possession in Michigan
The penalties for drug possession in Michigan depend on the type and amount of substance involved. For Schedule I and II substances, possession of more than 50 grams can be considered a felony and can result in up to decades in prison and fines of hundreds of thousands of dollars. Possession of Schedule III, IV, or V substances can be considered a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the amount possessed, and can result in up to two years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000.
What to Do After a Drug Possession Arrest in Michigan
If you have been arrested for drug possession in Michigan, it is important to contact an experienced drug crime lawyer as soon as possible. A drug charge lawyer can help you understand your rights, guide you through the legal process, and work to minimize the consequences of your charges. It is also crucial to avoid making any statements to law enforcement officials without consulting with your attorney first.
How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help Fight Drug Possession Charges
A skilled criminal defense attorney can help fight drug possession charges in several ways. Your attorney can investigate the circumstances surrounding your arrest, review the evidence against you, and work to have any illegally obtained evidence thrown out of court. Your attorney can also negotiate with prosecutors to have your charges reduced or dismissed, or work to have you enter into a diversion program instead of facing prison time.
Potential Defenses for Drug Possession Charges in Michigan
There are several potential defenses that can be used to fight drug possession charges. Here are a few common defenses:
- Illegal search and seizure: If the police conducted an illegal search and seizure of your property or person, any evidence found during that search may be inadmissible in court. An experienced drug defense lawyer can help you determine if the search was legal and if any evidence can be suppressed.
- Lack of knowledge: If you were not aware that the drugs were in your possession, you may have a defense against drug possession charges. For example, if someone else left drugs in your car or home without your knowledge, you may be able to argue that you did not knowingly possess the drugs.
- Unlawful possession: If the drugs were not in your possession at the time of your arrest, you may have a defense against drug possession charges. For example, if the drugs were found in a shared space or in someone else’s possession, you may be able to argue that you did not possess the drugs.
- Medical marijuana: If you have a valid medical marijuana card and were in possession of marijuana for medical purposes, you may have a defense against drug possession charges.
- Police misconduct: If the police engaged in misconduct during your arrest or investigation, such as coercing a confession or using excessive force, your criminal defense attorney may be able to argue that the charges should be dropped or reduced.
These are just a few of the possible defenses against drug possession charges in Michigan. An experienced drug crime attorney can help you determine the best defense strategy for your specific case.
Call Duplessis Law for Strong Legal Defense Against Drug Possession Charges
If you or a loved one is facing drug possession charges in Detroit or throughout Michigan, don’t wait to seek legal help. At Duplessis Law, we understand the serious nature of drug possession charges and are committed to fighting for our clients’ rights. Contact us today for a free consultation and find out how we can help defend you against drug possession charges.