Kitsap County Drug Crimes Lawyers

Protecting Your Rights from the Start of Your Case

Knowing how frightening it could be to be accused of committing a drug crime, our attorneys at Glisson & Morris will stand by your side, providing sound legal advice and guidance from the start of your case. When you retain our services, we will get to know you and ask questions about your circumstances so we can uncover the facts of your case. From there, we will examine the evidence the prosecutor has and work on building a strong defense. Our attorneys will fight aggressively, and we will seek a favorable outcome on your behalf. We represent individuals facing criminal charges in Port Orchard and the surrounding areas.

Leaving your case to chance could have costly consequences. Let our team provide the legal help you need by contacting us online or calling us at (360) 526-8191 for your free consultation.

Types of Drug Crimes

In Washington, various offenses involving prescriptions or controlled substances could be considered drug crimes.

The most common types of drug crimes are:

• Possession
• Sale
• Possession with intent to distribute
• Manufacturing
• Prescription drug fraud

What are the Penalties for Drug Crimes?

In Washington, drug crimes are taken very seriously. If you've been charged, you can expect that the prosecution will do everything in their power to try to land a conviction. Being found guilty of such an offense can be detrimental: Not only could you serve jail or prison time, but your criminal record will show a conviction, and you may be suspended from qualifying for government benefits such as federal financial aid for higher education. The impacts are far-reaching and can follow you for the rest of your life.

Depending on the circumstances, a drug crime could be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, and the penalties for a conviction depend on the facts. For instance, some cases of possessing a controlled substance are class C felonies, a conviction for which include up to 5 years imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $10,000. Committing prescription drug fraud is a class B felony, which is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and/or up to $20,000.

Is It Legal to Have Drugs in Your System?

The United States has clear laws varying at the federal, state, and local levels. Even being around drugs can sometimes be a cause for arrest and conviction. In Washington, marijuana is legal for both medical and recreational use, but the use or possession of controlled substances such as: heroin, oxycontin, and among others are illegal. If you are driving and law enforcement finds drugs in your vehicle even though they are not yours, you can still be arrested.

How Do You Argue a Positive Drug Test?

The best way to argue a positive drug test is to talk to your pharmacist and ask to see if your prescription drugs and OTC medications you take regularly can cause a positive drug test. Ask your pharmacist for a written document stating that the prescription drugs that you take cause it, and bring that document to the test site.

Are There Defenses Available for a Drug Charge?

In a criminal case, the prosecutor must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the accused is guilty of the offense. To do this they must present evidence in court. Depending on the case, it may be possible to challenge the evidence. For instance, when a law enforcement officer conducts a search in a suspected drug crime case, they must follow the law and not violate the individual's right to be free of unreasonable searches and seizures. If they collected evidence unlawfully, it might be inadmissible as evidence.

Our Kitsap County drug crimes attorneys will thoroughly review your case to ensure your rights were not violated and determine what defenses can be mounted on your behalf.

Let Us Take on the Prosecution for You

Going up an experienced prosecutor on your own can be challenging, as they are familiar with the law and know how the criminal justice system works. Our lawyers, who have served as former deputy prosecuting attorneys, can level the playing field by leveraging our knowledge, skills, and legal acumen for your case.

Are you facing a drug crime charge? Call us at (360) 526-8191 or contact us online to discuss your case during a free consultation.