All criminal charges have the potential to seriously impact your life, but drug related offenses especially can have far reaching consequences. If you’ve been charged with a drug related offense, it’s important to contact a Lansing drug lawyer as soon as possible in order to secure the most favorable resolution to your case. To better understand the potential gravity of a drug related charge, read these five common misconceptions:
- A conviction for a drug charge might mean probation and random drug testing, but not much more. Wrong. Even a conviction for a minor drug related offense could have far reaching implications. Although you may not serve jail time, you could lose your eligibility to receive financial aid, have trouble securing employment, or attaining licensure from certain professional associations.
- Possession charges are minor misdemeanors. Many people think that felony drug charges are reserved for drug dealers and manufacturers. In fact, many possession charges are felonies punishable by more than a year in prison. Possession of even small amounts of schedule 1 and 2 narcotics is punishable by up to four years in prison and a $25,000 fine.
- Prescription drug offenses aren’t as serious Prescription drug abuse has experienced explosive growth in the last decade. In response, law enforcement agencies and the court system have cracked down on the illegal use of prescription drugs. Depending on the substance and the amount in question, convictions may be punishable by multi year prison terms and hefty fines.
- A first time offense won’t do much damage. Although many first time offenders don’t serve jail time, even one drug related conviction on your record can have serious consequences. The internet makes information readily accessible to anyone who’s looking for it, and more and more employers, schools, and other institutions are running background checks on their applicants. A single drug conviction could hurt your chances at finding a job, getting into school, securing housing, or getting a professional license. If your current employment involves operating machinery, driving a vehicle, or working with children, you could have trouble keeping your job with a drug conviction on your record.
- Hiring a lawyer won’t do much good for a simple drug charge. Even if a drug related offense seems open and shut, an experienced defense attorney can help you achieve a more favorable outcome. You might not see any way around your charge, but the eyes of a trained professional may be able to help. Contact a lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your case. The longer you wait, the fewer options you may have.
Even if you haven’t been charged, merely being investigated for drug-related crimes can be extremely troubling and stressful. Whether you’re being investigated or have been arrested and charged, an experienced Michigan drug defense lawyer can help to protect your rights and fight your charge in court.
As a Lansing criminal defense lawyer, Tiffany DeBruin is committed to fighting for you and making sure you get a fair chance in court and the due process to which you are entitled. She will work diligently to get you the best possible outcome in your case so that you can put the stress of your drug charge behind you. For free consultation, call Tiffany DeBruin today at 517-324-4303.