Kitsap County Drug Offense Lawyer

Drug-related offenses are common in Kitsap County. A person convicted of a drug crime could face severe penalties, including prison time, probation, and hefty fines. The sentences are especially harsh for drug cases involving distribution or manufacturing.

If you or someone you know has been charged with a drug-related offense, you should consult with an experienced Criminal Defense attorney. A dedicated Kitsap County drug lawyer from our firm will fight to have your charges reduced or dropped entirely.

Drug Possession Penalties in Kitsap County

According to Revised Code of Washington §69.50.4013(1), it is unlawful for anyone to possess a controlled substance unless prescribed by a practitioner or used during their own professional practice. The consequences for a drug crime conviction depend on several factors, such as:

• Criminal history
• The involvement of weapons
• Whether there was an intent to sell
• Evidence of drug trafficking
• The kind and quantity of narcotics involved

For instance, a person under the age of 21 who is found with less than 40 grams of marijuana will face a misdemeanor charge. In contrast, someone found in possession of any amount of cocaine will face felony charges.

A felony drug possession conviction could result in up to five years in prison, 10,000 dollars in fines, or a combination of both. Additionally, a felony conviction could affect a person’s ability to find employment, qualify for education/financial aid, and seek housing. A seasoned lawyer in our area will fight to protect a defendant’s innocence and freedom by keeping a drug charge off their record.

Alternative Penalties

An accused person facing prison time for a drug conviction could be eligible for alternative resolutions or penalties to incarceration. Any defendant could increase their chances of avoiding jail time by working with a prudent drug crimes attorney. For instance, a member of our legal team could convince the state that the accused party is a suitable candidate for one of the available programs, which may include:

• Drug Offender Sentencing Alternative (DOSA) – allows qualified individuals to attend an inpatient treatment program or complete a lesser prison sentence coupled with intensive drug treatment.
• Drug Court – allows qualified individuals to participate in a program that once successfully completed will result in the dismissal of the charge.

Defenses to Drug Charges

An accused party should not accept any plea bargain before speaking with a qualified drug attorney about their options. An attorney from our firm could review the evidence against someone and build a strong defense on their behalf.

For instance, we could determine whether law enforcement obtained information illegally by recording a statement from you or holding you in police custody without having read your Miranda rights. One of our legal advocates will use any unlawful police work to negotiate a favorable plea deal or get the drug charges dropped altogether.

Contact a Kitsap County Drug Offense Attorney Today

A misdemeanor or felony drug conviction could negatively affect your reputation, employment, and education. Do not delay speaking with an attorney to increase the likelihood of a positive case outcome.

A drug conviction could compromise your rights, freedom, and future. Let a seasoned Kitsap Drug Offense lawyer argue for reduced or alternative penalties. Contact our firm today to speak to a compassionate lawyer about your case.