CALIFORNIA CRIMINAL LAWYERS

Facing Charges with the Intent to Sell Drugs? Get it Dropped to a Possession Charge

Drug Possession with Intent to Sell Charge: What You Need to Know

Getting caught in possession of illegal substances is already a nightmare, but getting caught and charged with the intent to sell is a far worse nightmare. If authorities have caught you with drugs and are claiming that you had the intent to sell the drugs, you must immediately speak with a lawyer. You also need to hold back all statements that may incriminate you to the police.

In cases of drug dealing charges, reach out to a criminal lawyer who specializes in such cases. The lawyer can analyze the police reports, your arrest, and your case to determine the defense strategy. Here are a few critical aspects of your case you must understand.

Possession vs. Intent to Sell
A possession charge can result in a fine, jail time depending on the amount and type of drugs you had, probation, volunteering, and drug education assignments, to name a few. However, tagging ”intent to sell” can escalate a misdemeanor to a felony, leading to a prison sentence, and affecting your personal record for life. If the charges result from an automobile search, you may also face driving penalties.

Constructing a Defense
The strategy to defend you will depend on the amount of drugs found, and the circumstances of your arrest. Listed below are a few defenses your lawyer may use:

– Entrapment by authority
– Insufficient drugs to sell profitably
– Unlawful police search methods
– Drugs intended for personal use only
– Flawed lab results
– Prescription for the drugs found

It is easier for your lawyer to develop a defense when you provide them with the details of your arrest, the conduct of the police officers involved, and the locations where the drugs were found.

Fighting an Obvious Crime
If there is indisputable evidence of possession, your lawyer may seek to drop the “intent to sell” charges. A plea bargain may be offered, which allows you to confess some form of guilt, while avoiding the rest of the charges. Pleading guilty to the former has its advantages, such as:

– Reduced jail time or avoiding prison
– Getting probation instead of jail time
– The misdemeanor charge to be cleared over time
– Avoiding being labeled a drug dealer when charges are made public

If you have no prior drug charges, it will be easier for your lawyer to get a plea, and thereby demonstrate that this was your first legitimate offense. However, if you have a record of several drug charges or other run-ins with the law, your lawyer may advise that you sign up for a drug rehabilitation program, demonstrating to the court that you are ready for a change.

Suppose you ever find yourself caught in possession of drugs and the authorities are accusing you of being a dealer. In that case, you should contact a lawyer as soon as possible. The sooner you have an attorney, the sooner they can gather evidence to build your case and work to obtain the least unfavorable outcome possible.