Columbus Drug Crime Attorney

Drug possession / Cultivation:

• Marijuana: misdemeanor if under 200g punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a maximum fine up to $250. Felony if more than 200g and punishable by six months to eight years in jail and a fine between $2,500- $15,000
• Concentrated drugs: misdemeanor if less than 10g solid or 2g liquid and punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a $250 fine. Felony if more than that and it is punishable by three to eight years in jail and a fine between $2,500-$15,000

Drug Distribution / Trafficking:

• Less than 20g: misdemeanor with a fine of $150
• Between 20-200g: felony punishable by one year in jail and a $500 fine
• 200-1000g: felony punishable by six months to 1.5 years in jail and a maximum fine of $2,500
• More than 1000g: felony punishable by one to five years in jail and a maximum fine of $2,500
• 20,000-40,000g: felony punishable by a minimum of five years and up to eight years in prison and a fine of up to $2,500
• More than 40,000g: felony punishable by a minimum of eight years in prison and a fine of $2,500

Drug Paraphernalia:

• Possession of paraphernalia: misdemeanor with a fine of up to $150
• Sale of paraphernalia: misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a maximum fine of $750

Drug convictions in Ohio can result in a loss of driving privileges as well. The amount of time could be anywhere from six months to five years depending on the conviction. The penalties for drug crimes in Ohio are strict and there is a lot at stake when facing any of these charges. In order to protect yourself from a tainted criminal record, jail time and large fines team up with a Columbus drug crime attorney who has experience representing defendants for drug charges.

Prescription Drug Offenses in Ohio

In some cases, individuals with unlawfully obtained prescription drugs may be charged for possession or distribution. Some of the more common prescription drugs used on the streets include Percocet, Vicodin, Oxycodone, Xanax, Adderall, and Soma.

Typically, prescription drug offenses may include prescription drug fraud, prescription drug theft, illegal sale or distribution of prescription drugs, or violation of federal or state laws regarding controlled substances.

Many other drug charges exist, including but not limited to:

• Drug manufacturing
• Possession of drug paraphernalia
• Doctor shopping
• Marijuana charges
• Possession with the intent to sell

If you or someone you love has been arrested and charged with a drug crime, it’s important to know the serious nature of a potential conviction. There are so many future consequences including both legal matters and personal matters.

Understanding the potential defense tactics available to you can help you feel at ease during what is a very stressful situation. Some of the potential defenses to drug charges may include the following:

• The search was illegal
• Officers didn’t read you your rights
• Officers violated your rights
• Evidence was tampered with
• The drugs belonged to another party
• Evidence is insufficient
• You were caught using entrapment

When you work with a Columbus drug crime attorney, you have the resources necessary to help you navigate the complex legal process. You get someone who can explain your rights and options, working to defend them every step of the way.

What Can I Do to Fight My Drug Charges?

One of the most important steps you can take after being charged with a drug crime is hiring an attorney you can trust. This legal resource can never be underestimated! When officers or investigators are interrogating you, having a strong advocate in your corner is crucial. Furthermore, a Columbus drug criminal lawyer can work to craft a strategic and effective legal defense that works to clear your name.

The following types of defenses can be used in drug cases:

• An illegal search and seizure was used to obtain evidence
• Officers failed to read you your rights or violated them in some way
• The evidence obtained was tampered with
• The drugs belonged to another individual or party
• Lack of strong or sufficient evidence
• Entrapment was used to get you to commit the crime
• You have a valid prescription for the drug

When you come to The Meranda Law Firm LTD, we will carefully review the details involved in your case and use our insight and knowledge to build an airtight defense. Our team is focused on helping you overcome your serious charges. Don't go with unreliable, inexperienced representation when you can hire our firm!

Exploring Alternative Sentencing Options for Drug Crimes

When facing drug charges in Ohio, it's important to understand that there may be alternative sentencing options available to you. Our experienced Columbus drug crime attorneys can help explore these options and advocate for the best possible outcome in your case.

Alternative sentencing options for drug crimes may include:

• Drug Court Programs - These programs offer treatment and rehabilitation as an alternative to traditional sentencing.
• Diversion Programs - These programs allow first-time offenders to complete requirements such as drug education classes or community service in exchange for having charges dismissed.
• Probation - Instead of serving time in jail, probation may be granted with conditions such as drug testing, counseling, or community service.

By working with an experienced legal team like The Meranda Law Firm LTD, you can explore these alternative sentencing options and potentially avoid harsh penalties associated with drug crimes in Ohio.

Understanding the Importance of Experienced Legal Representation

When facing drug charges, it is crucial to have an experienced drug crime attorney by your side. The legal system can be complex and navigating through it without proper guidance can have serious consequences. At The Meranda Law Firm LTD, our team of skilled attorneys has extensive experience in defending clients against drug charges in Columbus, OH.

Here are a few reasons why hiring an experienced Columbus drug crime attorney is vital:

1. Knowledge of the law: Drug laws can be intricate and constantly changing. Our Columbus attorneys stay updated on the latest laws and regulations to provide you with the most effective defense strategy.
2. Investigation and evidence gathering: Our team will thoroughly investigate your case, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and examining police procedures. This comprehensive approach allows us to find any weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
3. Defense strategy: With our expertise, we will develop a strong defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances. This may include challenging the legality of the search and seizure, questioning witness credibility, or negotiating for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options.
4. Protecting your rights: We are committed to protecting your constitutional rights throughout the legal process. Our team will ensure that law enforcement and prosecutors adhere to proper procedures and that your rights are not violated.
5. Minimizing penalties: If convicted, drug charges can result in severe penalties, including fines, probation, mandatory drug treatment programs, and even imprisonment. Our goal is to minimize these consequences and explore all possible avenues for a favorable outcome.

Don't face drug charges alone. Contact The Meranda Law Firm LTD today for a skilled Columbus drug crime attorney who will fight relentlessly to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.