Arizona state law has set harsh penalties for various offenses involving illegal drugs or the illegal use of drugs. Someone who has been arrested and charged with a drug-related offense needs drug crimes lawyers in Gilbert, AZ for skilled legal representation. A conviction of this type typically has a mandatory minimum sentence, but judges are commonly allowed to issue much more severe penalties if they believe this is advisable.
In Arizona, people can be charged with a drug-related offense in a broad range of situations. Possession of illegal substances such as cocaine and marijuana, for instance, is a drug-related crime. Being caught selling these substances or owning a large enough amount to indicate an intent to sell are more serious charges. People caught with prescription drugs and who do not have a prescription for those substances may be charged with a crime. A common example is individuals who get prescription painkillers illegally.
Depending on the circumstances, drug crimes lawyers in Gilbert, AZ can help clients avoid incarceration by arranging for them to participate in an alternative program. That type of program involves receiving drug rehabilitation in an inpatient setting and also following very strict probation guidelines. In some instances, a lawyer may be able to have the case dismissed altogether if there are technical issues or the evidence is slim. If conviction seems certain, a plea bargain may be a suitable option.
Arizona has very strict drug laws and has even been the focus of controversy because of this. For example, being in the possession of a prescription drug without a prescription can result in a six-month prison sentence. Having a prescription anti-depressant or anti-anxiety medication without the prescription, such as Xanax or Klonopin, can result in a sentence of more than three years in jail. Even marijuana possession in relatively small amounts can result in a two-year prison sentence.
Many people believe these sentences are too harsh. Until those laws change, however, individuals charged with drug-related offenses need assistance from an attorney, such as the law firm of Janet R. Feeley, L.L.C. View the website for more information.
