Navigating Pennsylvania's Strict Drug Laws with Tenacious Advocacy
Despite growing legalization trends, drug possession laws in Pennsylvania are rigorously enforced. At van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim, our dedicated Philadelphia drug possession attorneys are as fervent in defending you against drug charges as the enforcement agencies are in prosecuting them.
Understanding Drug Possession Arrests
A broad spectrum of controlled substances can lead to a drug possession charge in Pennsylvania, including heroin, cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamine, MDMA (ecstasy), LSD, and anabolic steroids. Even certain prescription drugs without a valid prescription can result in an arrest. The state law also criminalizes possession of substances used in creating controlled drugs.
Navigating Complex Drug Laws with a Proficient Philadelphia Drug Defense Attorney
Drug charges and penalties vary depending on the substance and quantity involved. These can range from minor misdemeanors to serious felonies, potentially escalating from mere possession to intent to distribute. Furthermore, "constructive possession" implies that you can be charged even without direct possession if drugs are found in a location under your control.
Moreover, possession of drug paraphernalia—any equipment used to ingest or introduce drugs into the body—can also warrant an arrest. These could include bongs, pipes, and rolling papers, among others.
Stringent Drug Possession Penalties in Pennsylvania
While specific case details can influence sentencing, typical penalties under state law include:
- Marijuana: Up to 30 days jail and $500 fine for 30 grams or less; up to a year jail and a $5,000 fine for more than 30 grams.
- Heroin: Up to two-year sentence for five grams; five-year sentence for 50 grams or more.
- Cocaine: Up to a year for less than 10 grams; four-year sentence for 100 grams or more.
- Methamphetamine: Three-year sentence for less than 10 grams; five years for 100 grams or more.
Adopting Innovative Drug Possession Defense Strategies
A seasoned defense team can leverage all available defenses in drug possession cases. Since many charges stem from traffic stops or searches, our aggressive attorneys challenge the police's probable cause for the initial stop and subsequent searches.
In cases involving constructive possession, we tackle the possession issue, scrutinizing factors like the accused's knowledge or potential control by others. Our objective is to dismantle the prosecution's case from every angle.
Don't Ignore Drug Possession Charges: Engage a Top Philadelphia Drug Crime Attorney
Ignoring drug possession charges won't make them disappear. The attorneys at van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim are ready to start building a solid defense against your charges. Contact us today for a free initial consultation by calling 215-774-5038 or use our online contact form.
