Clinton Drug Crime Lawyer

Clinton Drug Crime Attorney

Drug crimes carry significant penalties in North Carolina, whether it be a misdemeanor or a serious felony. Prosecutors often pursue the maximum possible sentence for those accused of these crimes. Navigating a drug charge calls for a strategic approach, which means you need a Clinton drug crime lawyer from Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC, who can vigorously advocate on your behalf.

Schedules of Drugs in North Carolina

North Carolina maintains strict drug laws to combat the high rates of drug use across the state, especially opioid abuse. In 2021, the state reported a 22% increase in overdose deaths in a single year. On top of this, Sampson County is among the counties with the highest number of drug-related deaths each year.

State law classifies illegal drugs, also known as controlled substances, into five distinct classifications. These are based on accepted medical use or their potential for abuse and dependence. Generally, the higher the potential for abuse, the more severe the penalties under state and federal law.

The schedules are as follows:

• Schedule I: Heroin, ecstasy, GHB, and LSD are examples of this schedule of drug, which has no accepted medical use and poses a high risk for abuse.
• Schedule II: Cocaine, OxyContin, opium, and amphetamines are among the Schedule II substances that may be accepted in certain medical cases but carry a high risk for severe dependence or abuse.
• Schedule III: The substances in this schedule have accepted medical uses but have a lower risk of abuse, such as ketamine, anabolic steroids, or Vicodin.
• Schedule IV: These substances have medicinal uses with a lower potential for abuse than Schedule III. The most common drug in this schedule is Valium.
• Schedule V: This category is for prescription drugs containing narcotics, like cough syrup with codeine.

Types of Drug Crime Cases We Handle

In the state, it is illegal to possess, manufacture, sell, or deliver controlled substances, as well as possess them with the intent to do so. This means there are many different drug charges a person can face.

Our law firm has experience defending those charged with drug crimes, including:

• Drug possession
• Possession with intent to sell or distribute
• Sale and delivery of narcotics/drugs
• Manufacturing controlled substances
• Drug trafficking
• Conspiracy to commit drug crimes
• Prescription drug possession and fraud

What Should You Do if You’re Arrested in Clinton?

The moments immediately following an arrest in Clinton are crucial and can significantly impact the outcome of your case. How you respond can either protect your rights and strengthen your defense or inadvertently jeopardize your situation.

It is important to stay calm, as it is natural for emotions to run high after an arrest. Saying or doing something impulsively can inadvertently harm your case. Secondly, you have the constitutional right to remain silent, and you should exercise that. Do not feel obligated to answer questions or provide information.

Lastly, reach out to your lawyer as soon as possible. An attorney can protect your rights, offer crucial guidance, and help you understand the next steps in the legal process.

Why Fight a Drug Crime Allegation in North Carolina

A drug conviction carries severe and long-term repercussions. Beyond immediate penalties like jail time or fines, a drug offense on your criminal record can follow you for years, often for life. This can significantly hinder your ability to find employment, maintain relationships, keep your driver’s license, secure financial aid, enlist in the military, or even own a firearm.

Your Rights and Our Defense

You are presumed innocent of any drug crime unless the state can prove its charges. Our Clinton drug crime lawyers can thoroughly investigate and challenge the charges and evidence against you. If the state has a strong case, we will work diligently to prevent a conviction or mitigate the consequences.

We understand that when you are arrested for drug crimes, you may be feeling terrified or anxious. These situations require qualified legal assistance from an experienced criminal defense attorney. Our team can explain the charges against you and all potential consequences so that you understand what is happening.

FAQs About Clinton Drug Crime Laws

Q: Do First-Time Drug Offenders Go to Jail in NC?

A: Whether or not you will go to jail for a first-time drug offense in NC depends on the specifics of your case. If it is a simple possession of a drug, such as small amounts of marijuana, it may only mean a fine. You could go to jail for a first-time offense if you are charged with certain felony drug charges, such as trafficking or possession of Schedule I or II drugs.

Q: What Is the Minimum Sentence for Drug Trafficking in NC?

A: The minimum sentence for drug trafficking will depend on the type and the quantity of the drug. In North Carolina, the minimum sentence could range from 25 months for a Class H felony to up to 225 months if the case is severe enough, such as by involving large quantities of drugs like methamphetamine or heroin.

Q: What Are the Long-Term Consequences of a Drug Conviction in North Carolina?

A: There is a wide range of consequences when you are convicted of a drug crime in North Carolina. A conviction might impact your future employment, housing, and education opportunities. It may also lead to losing your driving privileges, professional licenses, and voting and gun ownership rights. The worse your crime was, the more serious and long-lasting the consequences of your conviction will be.

Q: What Happens After a Drug Arrest in North Carolina?

A: After a drug test in North Carolina, you will be booked, informed of the charges, and made to appear before a judge for a bail decision. Your attorney can then gather evidence, and they might proceed with plea negotiations or a trial. For first-time offenders, you may be eligible for diversion programs instead of jail time. Consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney to discuss your options.

Facing Drug Charges in Clinton? Hire a Drug Crime Lawyer

Drug offenses carry serious penalties, whether it is a repeat or first-time offense. If you’re charged, you have the right to a robust defense from an experienced drug crime lawyer. At Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC, we are dedicated to defending those facing drug charges. Contact us today.