It is not uncommon for otherwise law-abiding citizens to find that they have violated laws relating to drug possession or distribution. Drug laws in the US are seriously enforced at the federal level and even a minor infraction could result in serious fines or even incarceration. If you are facing such charges, you need a Michigan federal drug lawyer by your side. An experienced attorney will best be able to build a defense for any federal charges you face.
Federal LawsSome states have loosened their laws regarding drug possession in recent years, especially with respect to marijuana. It is crucial to remember that the federal government (and most states) have not changed their laws. Most federal drug laws today are the product of the crack cocaine epidemic in 1986, when lawmakers were eager to show they were tough on crime. Federal law makes it a crime to knowingly own controlled substances such as:
In an effort to crack down on meth labs, lawmakers have toughened the penalties for the possession of precursor chemicals that can be used to manufacture controlled substances.
As a criminal defendant, a person has certain basic rights in the American legal system. They are presumed innocent until the government proves its case against them beyond a reasonable doubt. One of the things the government must prove is that the defendant knew the item in their possession was a controlled substance. If the authorities can prove an intent to distribute the substance, then the defendant can face much harsher penalties. Being in possession of a large quantity of the drug can be used as evidence, but the government may also bring into evidence inquiries made about the willingness of others to purchase the drug, as well as whether the person owned a digital scale.
Admissible EvidenceA key issue in all criminal cases, and especially drug-related charges, is the admissibility of evidence. When investigating cases, a Michigan federal drug lawyer will investigate certain considerations such as whether police had probable cause to stop a car when they found illegal substances in a car. The will also take into consideration if the police stayed within the parameters of their warrant if the evidence was found during the search of someone's home with a warrant. They will also consider if the law enforcement officers were guilty of entrapment. Being able to suppress evidence is often the difference between winning and losing a drug case.
Working with a Federal AttorneyOne of the characteristics of the drug laws passed during the 1980s is mandatory minimum sentences. Courts were perceived as being too lenient with drug offenders, so they lost the discretion to impose lighter sentences. Even a first offender could be looking at a severe punishment, depending on the substance and where there was an intent to distribute.
Because of this, you should take any possible drug charges seriously. Michigan federal drug attorneys can assist you at every step of the process, through arraignment, bond hearings, investigations, and at trial. Do not delay in finding out what your options are.