Washington Drug Lawyer Serving Kent, Lynnwood, and Marysville
Washington law enforcement and prosecutors vigorously pursue drug crimes. While in some states, possession of illegal drugs is a misdemeanor, in Washington it’s a felony–the only exception is small quantities of marijuana. As authorities recognize that there is an ongoing problem with illegal drugs in Washington State, they have invested greatly in resources that identify illegal drug distribution channels.
A drug charge is serious business. For years, states have been increasing the penalties for everything from simple drug possession to felony drug trafficking. At Feldman & Lee, our lawyers defend clients with all types of drug charges ranging from possession of marijuana or paraphernalia to felony VUCSA or intent to distribute. If you or a family member faces drug charges, you need a tenacious, knowledgeable lawyer to defend you. Contact Feldman & Lee to talk to an experienced criminal defense lawyer.
Drug Offenses in Washington
Drug offenses in Washington state can range from simple possession of illegal drugs in small quantities to very serious felonies that involve the manufacture, trafficking, and sale of controlled substances including heroin, cocaine, steroids, methamphetamines, and other illegal narcotics. The possession of drug paraphernalia and drug fraud (the unauthorized sale, use, or distribution of prescription medicines) are also seen as drug crimes by the law.
Washington State’s Initiative 502 (I-502) has decriminalized the use of recreational marijuana in November 2012. This law has allowed a regulated, licensed system, of marijuana production and distribution. But I-502 does not preempt federal law. Therefore the possession, production, sale, distribution, and use of marijuana is still against US federal law and may still be subject to prosecution. Also note that one must be at least 21 years old to be able to legally consume marijuana.
The penalties for drug offenses will depend on the quantity of drugs involved, the nature of the charge, and whether you have any criminal history. They are often severe and are likely to have adverse effects on your life and your future. Court-mandated consequences for drug charges include:
- Incarceration
- Heavy Fines
- Probation
As any drug charges will remain on your permanent criminal record, it can jeopardize future employment or career advancement. A drug conviction may also disqualify an individual for receiving state or federal aid in the form of student loans.
In the face of life-altering penalties, it’s imperative to retain the services of an attorney who has knowledge and actual experience handling drug defense cases. At Feldman & Lee, PS, our skillful attorneys handle drug cases that involve:
- Drug possession
- Intent to distribute
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Methamphetamines
- Oxycontin
- Cocaine
- Marijuana
- Ecstasy
- Illegal prescriptions
Possession of Marijuana, Cocaine, Ecstasy, Meth, and Illegal Prescriptions and Narcotics
Drug misdemeanor or felony charges will adversely affect your relationships — they will alter your career, your life, and your future. When facing charges for illegal drug possession or any other narcotic crime, seek the legal advice and service of Feldman & Lee PS.
The success of a drug case hinges largely on the evidence presented by the prosecution. Another factor that determines the case’s success is whether the prosecution can use that evidence to convince the jury or judge that an individual is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. As such, any pieces of evidence that have been found and seized by authorities can play a pivotal role in the success or failure of the case.
A skillful defense lawyer will dutifully investigate the manner in which the prosecution collected evidence. This is to make sure your rights have not been violated at any point in the process.
The attorneys at Feldman & Lee analyze a DUI and drug arrest in a similar fashion—Was the initial search and seizure leading to the arrest legitimate? The Washington State Constitution provides greater protection against unreasonable search and seizures by law enforcement. Simply being at the wrong place at the wrong time is not a legitimate basis for an arrest. Therefore, a motion can be brought before the court to get the case dismissed if Miranda Rights were not timely read, consent was not knowingly, intelligently or voluntarily given, or constructive possession cannot be proven. If your case falls into one of these categories call an attorney at Feldman & Lee. We zealously pursue all legal angles on our clients’ behalf to reach the best possible resolution whether that be in negotiations or trial.
If you or a family member faces drug charges, it is important to talk to an experienced lawyer as soon as possible. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can begin building your defense.
Contact a drug possession defense lawyer at Feldman & Lee for a free initial consultation.
