Edmonds Drug Crime Lawyer

Defending Against Drug Crimes in Washington

If you have been arrested for a drug related offense, it is in your best interests to hire an experienced Edmonds drug crimes defense lawyer as early as possible, to learn about your rights and begin working on a strategy for your defense.

Come to Johanson Law Group, Inc., where I have a quarter century of experience and a background that includes working as a prosecutor. I will work diligently to investigate the evidence and will stand by you as the case progresses, advising you of your options and fighting to clear your name.

If you're facing drug charges, don’t wait. Schedule a free consultation with our Edmonds drug crime lawyer by calling (425) 341-4347 or contacting us online today!

Understanding Drug Crimes in Washington

Drug crimes encompass a wide range of offenses related to the illegal use, possession, distribution, and manufacture of controlled substances. The state classifies these offenses based on the type and quantity of the drug involved, as well as the intent of the individual.

Common categories of drug crimes include:

• Possession: Being found with illegal drugs for personal use or distribution.
• Trafficking: Selling, distributing, or transporting illegal substances.
• Manufacturing: Producing or cultivating illegal drugs, including growing marijuana or synthesizing substances.
• Possession with Intent to Distribute: Having a quantity of drugs that suggests an intention to sell rather than use.

Types of Controlled Substances

In Washington State, controlled substances are classified into five schedules based on their potential for abuse, accepted medical use, and safety. Here’s an overview of the types:

• Schedule I: Substances with a high potential for abuse, no accepted medical use. Examples include heroin, LSD and ecstasy (MDMA).
• Schedule II: Substances that have a high potential for abuse but are accepted for medical use, with severe restrictions. Some examples are cocaine, methamphetamine, oxycodone, and fentanyl.
• Schedule III: Substances with a lower potential for abuse than Schedule I and II drugs, with accepted medical uses. For example anabolic steroids and ketamine.
• Schedule IV: Substances with a lower potential for abuse than Schedule III drugs and accepted medical uses. Xanax, Ativan, and Valium are under this category.
• Schedule V: Substances with the lowest potential for abuse, accepted for medical use.

Penalties For Drug Crimes in Washington

The penalty you could receive if convicted of a drug crime depends on the specific offense, such as possession, possession with intent to distribute, cultivation, sales or trafficking, as well as the quantity and type of drug involved.

Here’s an overview of the potential penalties for various drug-related offenses in Washington State:

Possession

• Schedule I or II Drugs: Typically charged as a felony, with penalties ranging from up to 5 years in prison and/or fines up to $10,000.
• Schedule III Drugs: Usually a misdemeanor, with penalties up to 1 year in jail and/or fines up to $5,000.
• Schedule IV and V Drugs: May also be charged as misdemeanors, with similar penalties.

Possession with Intent to Distribute

Charged as a felony, with penalties based on the amount and type of substance. Sentences can range from 5 to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $25,000.

Manufacturing or Delivery

Penalties vary widely. For example, manufacturing large amounts of Schedule I or II drugs can lead to 10 to 20 years in prison and significant fines, depending on the quantity involved.

Drug Trafficking

Penalties can be severe, often resulting in lengthy prison sentences (typically 5 to 25 years) and large fines (up to $1 million for certain offenses). 

Individuals with prior drug convictions may face enhanced penalties, including longer prison sentences and higher fines. Beyond imprisonment and fines, drug convictions can lead to loss of professional licenses, difficulties in employment, and a permanent criminal record.

Whether you have been charged with cultivation of marijuana or even for use of medical marijuana, the results could be detrimental without an aggressive Edmonds drug crime defense attorney.

Need legal help with drug charges? Contact our Edmonds drug crime lawyer today for a free consultation by calling (425) 341-4347 or reaching out online!

Strategies for Defending Edmonds Drug Charges

Johanson Law Group, Inc. employs various approaches tailored to the specifics of your case:

• Challenging Evidence: This may involve questioning the legality of search and seizure procedures. If law enforcement violated your rights during the investigation, evidence obtained may be deemed inadmissible in court.
• Possession vs. Intent to Distribute: Defending against charges of possession with intent to distribute may involve demonstrating that the quantity of drugs in your possession was for personal use rather than for sale. 
• Duress or Coercion: In some cases, individuals may be forced to participate in drug-related activities due to threats or coercion. Demonstrating that you acted under duress can be a compelling defense.
• Substance Abuse Issues: If you struggle with addiction, your legal team may advocate for rehabilitation instead of punitive measures. Courts may be more lenient if they see a genuine effort to address substance abuse problems.
• Mistaken Identity: If the charges stem from a misunderstanding or misidentification, your defense can focus on proving that you were not involved in the alleged crime.

Get Strong Defense for Drug Crime Charges in Washington

Prosecutors in our area do not want to appear to be soft on drug offenders, and if you have been arrested it is vital to take action to defend the case. No matter what type of evidence there may be against you I may still be able to help you avoid a conviction by using one of the proven criminal defense strategies that may apply in your case. 

You can increase your chances of a favorable outcome by exercising your right to remain silent with police officers and retaining my services to represent you as the first step following your arrest.

Contact online an Edmonds drug crime lawyer from my firm if you want a former prosecutor with over 35 years of experience to defend you or call at (425) 341-4347.