Grand Canyon Law Group
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State law in Arizona takes the possession and distribution of illegal drugs seriously. Whether the substances involved were marijuana, other street drugs, or prescription medications, convictions under the law come with severe penalties. These often include mandatory-minimum prison sentences, even with mitigating sentencing factors.
Working with a Glendale drug lawyer could help you avoid these penalties. At Grand Canyon Law Group, our former prosecutors, now dedicated defense attorneys are here to ensure that you understand the law. We can evaluate the evidence that a prosecutor intends to bring to trial and work to create reasonable doubt about the case that could result in a reduction in the severity of charges or a dismissal of your case.
State law contains several separate statutes that each deal with the different types of illegal drugs. A person possessing even a small amount of an illegal drug can face class 4 felony charges, and convictions can bring lengthy prison sentences. State laws also require people receiving a first or second conviction for drug possession cases to go on probation in most circumstances. This applies to cases involving possession of various types of drugs, from cocaine and heroin to prescription medications without a valid prescription.
Charges that allege the distribution of these substances are much more serious. For example, AZ Rev. Stat. § 13-3408 says that possessing any narcotic drug for the purpose of selling it is a class 2 felony. This means that a first conviction with mitigating circumstances brings a prison sentence of three years. In the most extreme cases, aggravating circumstances can result in a prison term of up to 12.5 years. It is crucial for those facing drug distribution charges to speak with a nearby attorney at Grand Canyon Law Group about the nature of their case.
Prosecutors always bear the burden of proving guilt in all drug cases. This includes showing that a defendant had the drugs in their possession and proving that they distributed or intended to distribute the items in question. One potential defense tactic for a Glendale drug attorney is to create reasonable doubt concerning these assertions.
It may be possible to contest the police’s actions that led to an arrest. The 4th Amendment of the Constitution protects people from unreasonable searches and seizures. If police do not have proper cause to search a person’s body, or do not obtain a proper warrant to search a home or car, the evidence that they obtain from those searches may be illegal. A drug lawyer at our Glendale office could help to contest these concepts in court.
The attorneys at our firm might also be able to argue that the drugs in question were not what the State alleges them to be. This can be especially effective in situations involving multiple defendants or cases that allege distribution that infers intent through the presence of large sums of cash or packaging materials. In any scenario, it is best to let an experienced drug lawyer work to craft the best possible defense for the circumstances.
Drug cases are always serious matters in Arizona. Even a first conviction can bring harsh penalties, such as jail time and a permanent mark on your criminal record. More serious allegations of drug distribution carry some of the heaviest potential penalties under state law. It is important that you approach your case with every possible advantage.
Allowing a Glendale drug lawyer to handle your case is the first step in fighting for a positive outcome. The team at Grand Canyon Law Group is prepared to explain your rights and fight to protect them in court. We are here to evaluate the prosecutor’s case and develop a defense that protects your freedom and way of life. Contact us now to schedule a consultation.
Grand Canyon Law Group
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