Tucson Drug Crime Attorney

Experienced Drug Crime Lawyers Serving Pima County, AZ

In Arizona, a conviction for a drug offense comes with a mandatory $1,500 fine. Additionally, you may also face possible jail time and drug counseling, depending on the severity of the charges. College students could face additional disciplinary action from their school. 

If you or someone you love is facing drug charges, it’s important to get an experienced drug crime lawyer who understands the process and your rights. Law Offices of Patrick Alan Moran, LLC is based in Tucson, and we’ve fought to protect defendants across Pima, Santa Cruz, Pinal, Graham, Cochise, and Maricopa counties. 

Our founder’s experience is not only extensive, but also wide-ranging. It includes time spent as a public defender and even as a Justice of the Peace. He understands the legal system from all angles, giving him unique insights into even the most complex cases. 

We can meet with you either here in the office or through a video conference. Call (520) 402-3226 or contact us online today for an appointment with our experienced Tucson drug crimes attorneys.

Types of Drug Offenses in Arizona

Drug crimes in Arizona cover a broad spectrum, from simple possession to trafficking and manufacturing. A skilled Tucson drug offenses attorney must be prepared to address charges such as:

• Possession of a Controlled Substance – The most common charge, involving illegal drugs such as methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, LSD, or prescription medications without a valid prescription.
• Possession with Intent to Sell – Prosecutors may elevate charges if they believe there is an intent to distribute, based on factors like the amount of drugs, packaging, or presence of cash or scales.
• Drug Trafficking and Transportation – Serious felony charges that involve moving controlled substances across state lines or within the state.
• Drug Manufacturing or Cultivation – Includes operating drug labs or growing marijuana illegally.
• Prescription Drug Fraud – Obtaining or distributing prescription medications through forged prescriptions or doctor shopping.

A Tucson drug offenses lawyer must understand the nuances of each charge to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and present a strong defense.

Consequences of Drug Crime Charges in Tucson

Facing drug crime charges can be a daunting experience, and understanding the potential consequences is crucial for anyone involved. 

Here are some key points to consider regarding the impact of drug crimes:

• Legal Penalties: Depending on the severity of the offense, penalties can range from minor fines to significant prison time. A knowledgeable attorney can help navigate these complexities.
• Impact on Employment: A drug conviction can limit job opportunities and professional licensing, making it essential to seek legal representation to mitigate these effects.
• Rehabilitation Options: In many cases, courts may offer rehabilitation programs as an alternative to incarceration. Understanding your options can lead to a more favorable outcome.
• Long-term Effects: Beyond legal consequences, drug offenses can affect personal relationships, housing opportunities, and even child custody arrangements.

It's important to recognize that the legal system can be complex, and the outcomes of drug charges can vary significantly based on numerous factors, including:

• Type of Drug: Different substances carry different penalties, with some considered more dangerous than others.
• Quantity: The amount of drugs involved in the offense can influence the severity of the charges and potential penalties.
• Prior Offenses: A history of drug-related offenses may lead to harsher penalties.
• Intent: Charges can differ based on whether the drugs were intended for personal use or distribution.

To navigate these challenging waters, our team at Law Offices of Patrick Alan Moran, LLC employs a comprehensive approach that includes researching the intricacies of your charges, possible defense strategies, and exploring alternative sentencing options which might include rehabilitation programs. Understanding these nuances is key to protecting your future.

Possible Defenses Against Drug Possession Charges

The most common drug charge is possession. This includes marijuana, methamphetamine, prescription drugs, and other controlled substances and their paraphernalia. 

The specifics of criminal defense always depend on the unique circumstances of each individual case. Generally speaking, though, drug possession defenses include: 

• Lack of possession: This defense argues that the defendant did not actually possess the drugs in question. It’s incumbent on the prosecution to prove that the drugs were under the defendant's control or within their immediate vicinity. 
• Lack of knowledge: On a related note, this defense argues that the defendant did not know they were in possession of drugs. For instance, if drugs were planted in their vehicle or belongings without their knowledge, this defense could apply. 
• Unlawful search and seizure: If law enforcement violated the Fourth Amendment right against unreasonable searches, any drugs found may be deemed inadmissible. A search conducted without a warrant or probable cause could invalidate evidence. 
• Entrapment: Law enforcement is not permitted to induce a person to commit a crime they would not ordinarily commit. To use this defense, the defendant might show they were persuaded or coerced by undercover officers into possessing drugs. 
• Medical necessity: If the defendant had a prescription or used marijuana legally under the Arizona Medical Marijuana Act, it could justify possession.